Lead Teacher - Child Development Center

Job Description

Job Description

About Us

The Umbrella Tree Child Development Center is a licensed child development center in Long Beach, California, serving children from six weeks through kindergarten. We are built on six core values — Excellence, Equity, Integrity, Compassion, Belonging, and Accountability — and we hold one standard: every child in our care receives the same quality of environment, engagement, and expertise, regardless of background, ability, or funding source.

Open Positions

We are hiring Lead Teachers for three classrooms:

• Infant 
• Toddler 
• Preschool 

Classroom assignment is based on experience, fit, and availability.

The Role

As a Lead Teacher at The Umbrella Tree, you set the tone. You mentor your assistant teachers, build an environment where every child belongs, and bring real skill to the work every day.

You will:

• Maintain a warm, intentional, and organized classroom — every day, not just during observations
• Meet each child developmentally where they are, using observation and assessment to guide your practice
• Apply research-based behavior support strategies with consistency and care
• Use positive, expectation-forward language with children at all times
• Communicate meaningfully with families throughout the day through Brightwheel
• Support and mentor assistant teachers in your room
• Maintain all documentation required by licensing and program systems
• Participate fully in professional development and staff training

Required Qualifications 

All credentials must be current and verified before working independently with children.

• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or Equivalent 
• Mandated Reporter Training (AB 1432)
• Pediatric CPR/First Aid (current)
• TB clearance
• DOJ/FBI LiveScan fingerprint clearance

Preferred Qualifications 

• California Teacher's Permit
• Food Handler's Certification
• Trauma-Informed Care training — completion certificate
• Special Needs Certification or equivalent coursework — completion certificate

What We Offer

• Competitive Pay 
• Annual continuing education stipend you direct toward your own growth
• In-house professional development throughout the year, at no cost to you
• A workplace where you are seen, respected, and set up to succeed