Toddler Lead Teacher at 5 Star Program - East Gate Kids

Job Description

Job Description

Toddler Lead TeacherAlbuquerque, NM | Full-Time$19-$25/hour | 5-Star Center | Reggio-Inspired |  A Unique Role for a Special Kind of EducatorWe have an immediate opening for a full-time Toddler Teacher, and we're looking for someone ready to step in and make an impact. If you're passionate about toddler development and want to do this work in a high-quality, supportive environment - we'd love to hear from you today. Why This Role Truly MattersAt East Gate Kids, we're not filling a seat. We're looking for an educator who understands that the toddler years are one of the most critical windows in a child's development - and who shows up every day ready to meet that responsibility.We are a 5-Star early learning center inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, where children are viewed as capable, curious, and full of potential. Our classrooms are designed to encourage exploration, creativity, and meaningful relationships. We believe learning happens through play, discovery, and connection. Who This Role Is Perfect ForYou may be a strong fit if you:Understand toddler development and meet children where they areStay calm under pressure and bring consistency to your classroomBuild genuine relationships with children and familiesEnjoy the energy and unpredictability of the toddler stageCollaborate well with a team and take feedback seriouslyWant to grow your craft in a center that invests in its educators What You'll Do (Responsibilities)Lead daily routines, transitions, and play-based learning experiencesImplement curriculum aligned with NM Early Learning Guidelines and the Reggio Emilia approachSupport language development, social-emotional growth, and independenceCommunicate regularly with families through daily updates and conferencesDocument learning through observations and developmental portfoliosMaintain compliance with state licensing, FOCUS standards, and center policiesParticipate in ongoing professional development and team collaboration  QualificationsRequired:High School Diploma or GEDExperience working with children in a childcare or educational settingStrong communication and collaboration skillsPhysical ability to meet job requirements (lifting up to 30 lbs, movement, standing)CPR/First Aid Certification (or willingness to obtain)Ability to pass all state-required background checksPreferred (but not required):CDC, AA, or BA in Early Childhood Education (or actively pursuing one)Experience in a licensed childcare or preschool settingFamiliarity with Reggio Emilia, emergent curriculum, or project-based approachesWhat We OfferCompetitive pay: $19-$21/hour based on experienceHealth, dental, vision, and telehealth coverage after 90 daysUp to 80 hours of PTO annually, plus 12+ paid/unpaid holidaysFull week off at Christmas and closure for major holidaysFree childcare in our highly sought-after 5-Star programECECD Scholarship support to earn your degree while workingOngoing paid training and professional developmentFree uniforms and parkingA respectful, supportive, purpose-driven team culture Ready to Apply?Toddlers deserve teachers who are all in - and we're looking for exactly that person. If you're available now and ready to lead a classroom where relationships, curiosity, and joy drive everything, we'd love to meet you.