Early Childhood Educator - Substitute Lead Teacher

Limited Positions - Now hiring for the 2026–2027 school year! We're hiring multiple early childhood educators to support school districts and private preschool centers. The roles vary from mid-term substitute placements, with you working directly in a classroom Monday through Friday, supporting students and staff on a consistent, daily basis. We also have availability for our daily substitute program, where you can choose which centers / hours work best for you! Talk to a recruiter today and get hired before the first bell rings.

About Zen Educate

Zen Educate connects schools with passionate, high-quality educators through a simple and transparent hiring process. We partner with public and charter schools to help them find the right staff, while making it easier for educators to discover roles that fit their skills, preferences, and career goals. Our mission is to create better outcomes for students by supporting the educators who make it happen, through smarter matching, fairer pay, and ongoing support.

You'll be stepping into a Lead Teacher position at an early childhood or preschool site, helping to lead activities, manage the classroom, and provide a safe and nurturing environment for children ages 12 months–5 years old. You'll follow the school's curriculum and routines while collaborating with other teachers and support staff.

This role comes with a competitive hourly rate of $23.00-24.00 per hour, paid weekly.

Responsibilities: Support in leading classroom routines, activities, and play-based learning Create a warm, engaging, and safe environment for children Dependable, collaborative, and passionate about early learning Collaborate with staff and follow each center's curriculum and routines Maintain classroom organization and IL DHS licensing standards Communicate effectively with families and staff

Qualifications: Colorado Early Childhood Professional Credential (PDIS Levels 1, 2, or 3+) 1+ year experience in a licensed childcare or preschool Applicants must have professional proficiency in English Pediatric CPR/FA certification (required within 30 days of hire)Health screening (required within 30 days of hire)US Work Authorization - Zen Educate cannot provide sponsorship for an employment visa or relocation assistance at this time.

Preferred Qualifications:

Pediatric CPR/FA certification

Salary:

Pay: $23.00 - $24.00 per hour

Schedule: Monday to Friday, within hours of 7:30 am - 3:00/4:30 pm (no weekend work).

Benefits and other offerings Weekly pay by direct deposit, with paper check available on request Professional development, including in-app training, paid role-specific certifications where applicable, and additional development opportunities depending on role and location Paid sick leave in accordance with applicable state and local law Medical, dental, and vision insurance available when eligibility requirements are met, which includes working more than 1,560 hours in a 12 month period. 401(k) retirement plan with no employer match available when eligibility requirements are met, which includes working more than 1,000 hours in a 12 month period or more than 500 hours/year in a 24 month period.

Don't wait! Apply and connect with a recruiter today and take the first step toward your future in education.

Ref: #DENECETZA-Oct26