Lead Teacher (NW)

• Infant Lead Teacher, ages zero to two at our SE and NW locations
• Toddler Lead Teacher, ages two to three
• Preschool Lead Teacher, ages three and up

• Value collaborative classroom environments that focus on child-led learning and inquiry.
• Have a strong understanding of child development and pedagogy theory. 
• Are passionate about mentoring young learners and guiding them through social and emotional development.
• Can lead and direct a classroom of students and support staff.

• Step 7-8.5: $24.86/hour

• Step 9-9.5: $28.18/hour
• Step 10+: $33.15/hour

• Standardized annual merit-based raises and annual PFA wage adjustments
• Long-term commitment bonuses to incentivize teachers to remain with their cohort

• Provide primary care and educational support for a consistent group of children.
• Foster a safe, engaging, and child-centered learning environment.
• Design and implement developmentally appropriate activities, lesson planning, and curriculum.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with families, ensuring clear and supportive communication.
• Participate in ongoing professional development and contribute to a positive workplace culture.
• Act as a professional role model for support staff.
• Direct all support staff within your classroom to ensure smooth operations, classroom function, and routine.

• Be a Step 7 or higher in the Oregon Registry Online (ORO) system
• Be currently enrolled in Oregon's Central Background Registry (or begin the process and complete it upon receiving confirmation)
• At least 4 years of experience in an ECE classroom setting.
• Meet the teacher-qualification criteria as outlined by the Office of Child Care requirements, which may include:
  • Previous experience in a structured childcare environment.
  • Completion of college-level courses in early childhood education-related subjects.
    • Degree in Early Childhood Education (or equivalent) preferred.
  • Complete Oregon’s Safety Set Trainings and required certifications:
    • Pediatric CPR/First Aid Course (hybrid or fully in-person)
    • Oregon Food Handler's Card (online course)
    • Introduction to Child Care Health & Safety (online course)
    • Recognizing & Reporting Child Abuse & Neglect (online course)
    • Prevention is Better than Treatment (online course)
    • Safe Sleep for Oregon's Infants (online course)

To work with us, you must be teacher-qualified and currently enrolled in Oregon's

These easy, online trainings are required within 30 days of hire:

The challenges of COVID reminded us how vital it is to center our employees’ well-being. We know we still have much to do to be the BEST place to work in child care in Portland, but that’s what we’re working toward.

All employees are eligible for:

• 1-3 weeks of Paid Time Off per year, depending on how long they've been with ChildRoots.
• 25 paid holidays and all-school days off
• Company-provided continuing education
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with generous company match and 100%, immediate vesting

Full-time employees are eligible to enroll in our insurance plans, including:

• Providence Health, including vision, naturopathic, chiropractic, acupuncture, AND massage
• Principal or Willamette Dental

We value commitment and invite you to stay with us for at least a year.

To learn more about us, explore our website , take a virtual tour of our facilities , and review our COVID-19 Health & Safety Guidelines .

We're a pro-vaccination community and require all employees and enrolled parents to be fully vaccinated against COVID . We still practice extraordinary safety protocols like daily health checks, masks, stable groups, and extra cleaning, and will do so for as long as it takes to keep our community safe.

Thank you for your consideration. We hope to hear from you!