Early Childhood Lead Teacher

Job Description

Job Description

NEW-HIRE SIGN-ON BONUS – $500
New Early Learning Lead Teacher employees are eligible to receive a $500 sign-on bonus, subject to the following requirements:

• All new hires in this position are eligible, regardless of whether they were referred by a current team member.
• The bonus will be awarded after the employee completes 90 days of service.
• At the time the bonus is awarded, the employee must remain in good standing , defined as:
  • Actively employed by the YMCA.
  • Having received fewer than two documented progressive discipline conversations.
  • Having completed all required trainings and other staff requirements, with everything up to date.

Effective Date: This incentive applies to eligible candidates applying on or after October 19, 2026. Candidates who applied before this date are not eligible for this new incentive.

SUPPORTING FAMILIES IN THESE CENTERS:
Children's Learning Center
Hand-n-Hand
Heart of the Parks

YOUR IMPACT
The Early Childhood Lead Teacher will play a critical role in the successful operation of their designated classroom. This role develops and leads high-quality early childhood activities that foster each child’s growth—physically, intellectually, emotionally, and socially. The lead teacher provides a positive classroom experience for children and families, implements age-appropriate curriculum, and supports all age groups as needed within the program.

WHAT YOUR DAY MAY LOOK LIKE
No two days are the same in this role — but every day centers on leading high-quality, developmentally appropriate programming, supporting and coaching staff, and creating a safe, nurturing environment where children and families feel valued and supported.

• Lead the day by creating engaging, developmentally appropriate learning experiences
• Guide children and staff through daily routines, activities, and transitions
• Coach and support team members, including new hires and volunteers
• Build meaningful connections with children and families, including leading conferences
• Ensure program quality and maintain compliance with all state regulations and safety standards
• Track children’s progress through observations, documentation, and assessments
• Maintain clean, organized, and welcoming learning spaces
• Step in where needed to support classrooms, events, and daily operations

If you’re a confident leader who enjoys variety, takes initiative, and is passionate about helping children and teams grow — this role is for you.

SCHEDULE & COMPENSATION: 3 Positions
*All positions provide support to all age groups and classrooms based on staffing needs.

$19.00-$22.00 per hour (includes $16.25 base rate and $2.75 grant-funded differential)
Wage differentials are contingent upon the continuation of funding received from the Smart Start Workforce Grant which is reviewed quarterly

Position 1: Hand-n-Hand Child Care Center
Full-Time, Non-Exempt
Monday-Friday 8:45 am - 5:45 pm
Schedule may vary based on program needs

Position 2: Hand-n-Hand Child Care Center
Full-Time, Non-Exempt
Monday-Friday 8:45 am - 5:45 pm
Schedule may vary based on program needs

Position 3: Hand-n-Hand Child Care Center
Full-Time, Non-Exempt
Monday-Friday 8:45 am - 5:45 pm
Schedule may vary based on program needs

Note: This position has a lead time of 6-8 weeks before placement.

Regardless of your primary classroom placement, this role will be expected to assist with all ages in the program.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum age of 19 years old
• High school diploma or equivalent required; or one to three months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Must have completed 60 semester hours from an accredited college or university with a minimum of 6 semester hours in courses directly related to childcare and/or development from birth to age six; or a Child Development Associate Credential (CDA); or 1 year of child development experience and 30 semester hours from an accredited college or university with a minimum of 6 semester hours directly related to child care and/or development from birth to age six
• CPR, AED and First Aid Certifications required within 90 days

Upon Hire:

• Medical Release form CFS 602 filled out by physician, including proof of negative result of 2-step TB test
• Must submit to a DCFS background check (Form CFS 718-B) and be fingerprinted (if necessary)
• A minimum of 3 written references
• Register with Gateways to Opportunity
• Ability to participate in a minimum of 15 clock hours of in-service training per calendar year
• Complete Mandated Reporter Training, as well as all required Gateways training per DCFS
• Training in ECERS/ITERS Quality Rating Scale trainings and assessments
• ExcelleRate Illinois Early Childhood Credential Level 3 or higher preferred
• Training in Creative Curriculum and Assessment preferred

THERE'S SO MUCH MORE TO WORKING AT THE Y! Employment benefit information available HERE.

The Y is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We offer more than just a job, rather the opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of those around you.

The Y: We're for Youth Development, Healthy Living and Social Responsibility