Lead Teachers at Vernon Hills KinderCare

Futures start here. Where first steps, new friendships, and confident learners are born. At KinderCare Learning Companies, the first and only early childhood education provider recognized with the Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award , we offer a variety of early education and child care options for families. Whether it’s KinderCare Learning Centers, Champions, or Crème de la Crème, we build confidence for kids, families, and the future we share. And we want you to join us in shaping it—in neighborhoods, at work, and in schools nationwide.

Our teachers, center staff, and field leaders are the heart and soul of our business. When you join us, you’ll be directly supporting children and their education every day and experiencing the trials and triumphs that come with that responsibility. But you’ll never be alone. You’ll do it all with a village of dedicated and passionate humans who care as much about helping kids reach their highest potential as you do. The best part? Seeing the positive impact you’re making on the lives of young learners and their families—and knowing that your work matters. 

When you join our team as a Lead Teacher you will:

• Lead, coach and mentor less experienced teachers in your classroom; model behaviors and provide feedback
• Implement KinderCare's curriculum in a way that is consistent with the unique needs of each child
• Create a safe, nurturing environment where children can play and learn
• Partner and connect with parents, with a shared desire to provide the best care and education for their children
• Support your center’s success; partner with center staff and leadership to achieve goals around enrollment, accreditation, and engagement
• Cultivate positive relationships with families, teachers, state licensing authorities, community contacts and corporate partners

Required Skills and Experience:

• Outstanding customer service skills, strong organizational skills, and the ability to multi-task and handle multiple situations effectively
• Possess active Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential or meet NAEYC candidacy requirements
• Approved state trainer (preferred)
• 2-3 years Early Childhood Education Experience (preferred)
• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education (preferred)
• Meet state specific qualifications for the role or willingness to obtain
• CPR and First Aid Certification or willingness to obtain
• Use a computer, lift a minimum of 40 pounds, and work indoors or outdoors
• Be able to make physical and visual contact with children, see and hear well enough to keep children safe, and engage in physical activity with children
• Read, write, understand, and speak English to communicate with children and their parents in English

Range of pay $16.85 - $21.60 Hourly

In the state of Minnesota, we currently provide an additional $3.00 per hour premium on all classroom hours worked in addition to the range of pay listed. This premium is funded through the Minnesota Great Start Grant Compensation Support Program.

Our benefits meet you where you are. We’re here to help our employees navigate the integration of work and life:
- Know your whole family is supported with discounted child care benefits. - Breathe easy with medical, dental, and vision benefits for your family (and pets, too!).
- Feel supported in your mental health and personal growth with employee assistance programs.
- Feel great and thrive with access to health and wellness programs, paid time off and discounts for work necessities, such as cell phones.
- … and much more.

We operate research-backed, accredited, and customizable programs in more than 2,000 sites and centers across 40 states and the District of Columbia. As we expand, we’re matching the needs of more and more families, dynamic work environments, and diverse communities from coast to coast. Because we believe every family deserves access to high-quality child care, no matter who they are or where they live. Every day, you’ll help bring this mission to life by building community and delivering exceptional experiences. And if you’re anything like us, you’ll come for the work, and stay for the people.  

KinderCare Learning Companies is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, military or veteran status, gender identity or expression, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal law.