Preschool Teacher

Job Description

Job Description

About This Role

We are currently seeking an experienced teacher for our Preschool program to start immediately. The ideal candidate will possess a minimum of two years of experience working in early childhood educational settings, with a particular focus on children aged 3-5. A certificate or associate's degree in early childhood education or a related field is highly desirable. The chosen candidate will work a part-time schedule from 8am to 5:30pm, Monday through Friday. Knowledge of DHS regulations and Developmentally Appropriate Practices is preferred. We seek a candidate who is passionate about working with children of all ages, flexible, energetic, and committed to being part of an exceptional team of early childhood educators.

• The successful candidate will oversee the care and supervision of young children, adhering to the rules and regulations set by DHS.
• They will play a crucial role in implementing a developmentally appropriate curriculum that meets the needs of our children.
• The teacher will engage with the children, participating in activities and ensuring their active involvement in the learning process.
• They will work collaboratively with other teachers in the room to maintain a clean and organized environment and manage everyday duties.
• Attending regular Staff Meetings is a requirement for this position.
• The teacher will complete any necessary training as mandated by DHS and First Steps.
• Maintaining certification in CPR and First Aid for all ages is essential.
• We encourage the successful candidate to pursue further education in early childhood education or a related field, as needed.

• Minimum high school diploma or GED
• Must be at least 18 years old
• Able to lift 40 lbs, bend, crouch, and get on the floor with children
• Must pass a background check
• Minimum 2 years experience in an early childhood educational setting preferred

• C.D.A. or higher in early childhood education or a related field
• Two or more years specifically working with preschoolers
• Current students of education or related fields are encouraged to apply
• Five or more years of experience in an early childhood educational setting

• Competitive pay
• Health Insurance available for full-time employees
• 12 paid holidays per year
• PTO accrual annually based upon scheduled hours
• Pension benefits after 1 year, 8% non-matching
• Discounted tuition (50%) for employees with age-eligible children
• Paid trainings
• Mentoring, support and guidance from experienced, licensed educators

First Steps Child Development Center has been a pillar in Early Childhood Education in the community for over 60 years. First Steps offers the highest standard of childcare and early childhood education for ages 6 weeks through age 5, with six classrooms and separate indoor and outdoor gym areas. The Center is housed within the First United Methodist Church of Oak Ridge, TN and operates as a "daughter ministry" of the church. However, the program is not a religious program in nature. First Steps has consistently been a 3 Star Center in the State of Tennessee, and is currently going through national accreditation as a Center of Excellence with NECPA. Over 63% of our teachers hold a minimum of a C.D.A in Early Childhood Education, with many having bachelor's and master's degrees as well. We fully support our teachers as they provide the highest quality in early childhood education.