Early Childhood Educator - Substitute Lead Teacher

We’re Hiring Now for the 2026–2027 school year!
We’re hiring multiple substitute preschool teachers 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!
Connect with a recruiter today to find a role that fits your schedule and goals.

About Zen Educate
Zen Educate is tackling the educator shortage by helping schools connect with passionate teaching assistants and paraprofessionals. We’re proud to support both schools and staff by creating smart, fast matches that benefit students and communities alike.

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.

✨ Sign-On Bonus Available!
Are your DCF credentials up to date? We are offering a signing bonus to successful candidates who have completed their required ECE transcripts, including all coursework and exams for Part I & II Childcare Facilities, Early Literacy, and Shaken Baby training.

If you are still working through your DCF requirements, we still want to hear from you! Successful candidates will receive full support from our team to complete their remaining credentials.

Key Responsibilities:
- Lead daily classroom routines, lessons, and transitions
- Create a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment
- Support children’s social, emotional, and developmental growth
- Implement center-provided curriculum and lesson plans
- Supervise assistant teachers and support staff when assigned
- Maintain classroom organization, safety, and state licensing standards
- Communicate professionally with site leadership and staff
- Adapt quickly to different classroom settings and age groups

Required Qualifications
- Meet Florida early childhood teacher qualification requirements through a CDA, FCCPC, or qualifying Early Childhood Education coursework or degree
- Six months of experience in a licensed early childhood setting such as childcare, preschool, or Head Start
- Ability to work independently and lead a classroom when needed
- Reliable, professional, and passionate about early learning
- Eligible to work in the United States
- Ability to pass a Florida Level 2 background screening through the DCF Clearinghouse

Preferred Qualifications
- One year or more of early childhood teaching experience
- Head Start or preschool experience
- Bilingual English and Spanish preferred
- Completed required DCF courses and exams for childcare facilities.

Salary
Pay: $19 - $23 per hour
Schedule: Monday through Friday, flexible daily or long-term placements

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.

Ready to shape the future of learning? Apply today and help every student reach their full potential

Ref: #TAMPECETZA-Oct26