Lead Preschool Teacher

Building Blocks Child Care Center, Inc. is hiring a Lead Preschool Teacher in Pullman, WA. Summary Join our team at Building Blocks Child Care Center, Inc., a Washington State licensed, Early Achievers Level 4-rated, independent childcare center located in Pullman, WA. The Preschool Teacher position serves children ages 2.5–5.5 years. We are seeking an experienced, reliable early childhood professional who can confidently manage a classroom, implement developmentally appropriate curriculum, and contribute to a strong, collaborative team. The ideal candidate demonstrates strong organization, classroom leadership, and communication skills along with a solid understanding of child development. Position: Preschool Teacher (ages 2.5–5.5 years) Start Date: As soon as the right candidate is selected Compensation: $17.25–$22.50 per hour (depends on education and experience) Schedule: Full-time: Monday–Friday, 7:45 AM–3:45 PM Part-time: Monday–Friday, 8:15 AM–2:15 PM We are always accepting applications for this role. Duties The Lead Teacher oversees all daily operations within a developmentally appropriate classroom (infant, toddler, preschool, or school-age). This role requires confident, independent classroom management in accordance with Washington State child-to-teacher ratios (preschool 1:10; up to 20 children with two teachers). The Lead Teacher supervises assistant staff and collaborates with a co-teacher and the Curriculum & Classroom Specialist to ensure consistency and program quality. This is a leadership role within the classroom. The Lead Teacher is responsible for building a cohesive, high-functioning teaching team, implementing engaging curriculum, and managing daily classroom operations. Success in this role requires strong organization, effective time management, and confident classroom and behavior management skills. The Lead Teacher sets the tone for structure, consistency, and positive guidance within the classroom. We are seeking professionals who demonstrate a growth mindset and are open to feedback and continuous improvement. A strong understanding of children’s cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development is essential to creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment. Strong communication skills are required to effectively support children, lead staff, and build positive partnerships with families. What You’ll Do (Daily Responsibilities) Plan and implement developmentally appropriate curriculum and activities Lead daily routines (meals, toileting, rest time, transitions, and care) Maintain a safe, clean, and engaging classroom environment Model positive guidance and effective communication with children Complete child assessments and participate in parent conferences Communicate regularly with families through daily interactions and updates Lead and support assistant teachers, aides, and volunteers Ensure compliance with licensing and Early Achievers standards Complete required documentation and maintain accurate records Key Responsibilities Create and implement curriculum aligned with early learning standards Lead by example through professionalism, consistency, and teamwork Support and coach teaching staff to maintain a strong classroom team Plan engaging activities that support social, emotional, and cognitive growth Maintain a structured, well-managed classroom environment Ensure all health, safety, and hygiene standards are consistently met Supervise staff to ensure adherence to classroom expectations and safety protocols Maintain organized, accurate records and documentation Participate in ongoing professional development and continuous quality improvement Requirements Candidates must meet one of the following qualifications: 45 college quarter hours in Early Childhood Education (or equivalent) and at least 1 full year of experience leading a Preschool or Kindergarten classroom OR Working towards an ECE initial state certificate, at least 2 years of full-time experience in a group childcare setting, and at least 1 year of experience as a Lead Teacher in a Preschool or Kindergarten classroom OR Equivalent education/experience may be considered. Candidates must be willing to sign an education plan agreement to meet Lead Teacher requirements as defined by the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF). Reference: WAC 110-300-0100. This role requires prior experience as a Lead Teacher in a preschool or early learning program within a licensed childcare setting. Candidates must meet and understand requirements outlined in: WAC 110-300-0120 (staff health and professional requirements) WAC 110-300-0105 (preservice requirements) Preferred Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education or Elementary Education 3+ years’ experience leading a Preschool or Kindergarten classroom 5+ years’ experience in a group childcare setting Training Requirements Upon hire and before working in the classroom: DCYF background clearance Negative TB test Mandated Reporter training Safe Sleep training Within 90 days of hire: CPR & First Aid Certification Child Care Basics Certification Additional Knowledge, Skills & Requirements Minimum 3 years of professional, full-time classroom experience Strong understanding of child development Effective oral and written communication skills; basic computer proficiency Ability to work collaboratively with staff, children, and families Must obtain and maintain Infant/Child CPR & First Aid certification Must pass a full background check State-specific requirements available upon request Physical Requirements Ability to move actively throughout the day, including walking, standing, kneeling, bending, squatting, and lifting up to 35 lbs. Ability to use hands and fingers to handle objects and classroom materials Ability to communicate clearly and hear across varying noise levels Visual ability including close vision, distance vision, color recognition, peripheral vision, and depth perception Compensation Hourly wage is based on education and experience. The posted range reflects candidates from minimum qualifications up to those with 10+ years of experience and a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field. Employees are eligible for wage increases based on performance. Raises are considered after the first year of employment following successful 1-month, 90-day, and annual evaluations demonstrating consistent growth. Additional merit increases may be awarded at any time for exceptional performance beyond standard job expectations. Benefits Available Upon Hire Tuition Assistance Child Care Discount Professional Development Accrual of sick leave Accrual of Washington State Paid Family & Medical Leave Childcare benefit: Full tuition coverage for children ages 1+ (space available), valued at approximately $1,500–$2,900 per month per child Equivalent to approximately $18,000–$35,000+ per year in added compensation value Scholarship opportunities for continued education in Early Childhood Education (including Bachelor’s degree pathway) Benefits Available After 1-Year Evaluation (Full-Time Staff) Benefit selections are based on participation in the childcare benefit: Employees utilizing the childcare benefit: May select 1 option Employees not utilizing the childcare benefit: May select up to 3 options Available benefit options: 20% health reimbursement (toward private health insurance) Paid Time Off (3 days per calendar year) Paid holidays (6 per calendar year) Health & Wellness Package: 25% gym membership reimbursement Minimum education: High School or equivalent. #J-18808-Ljbffr