Infant Lead Teacher – East Gate Kids Early Learning Center

East Gate Kids•Albuquerque, NM

12h•$21 - $25•Onsite

About The Position

Lead Infant Teacher For Educators Who Understand That Infancy Is Foundational If you believe early childhood education is sacred, impactful work -and that teachers deserve respect, support, and professional growth -you may have just found your home. At East Gate Kids, we're not filling positions. We're building a community of educators who care deeply about children, families, and doing this work well. And we are seeking a Lead Infant Teacher who understands that the earliest experiences of care shape a child's sense of safety, trust, and curiosity for life. We are a model 5-Star early learning center in New Mexico, known for innovation, inclusion, and excellence. Our beautifully designed, Reggio-inspired classrooms are intentional spaces that invite curiosity, independence, collaboration, and joy-for children and teachers. This role is for educators who want to grow their craft, contribute meaningfully, and be part of a team that takes pride in high-quality early childhood education. Infants learn through relationships. Diapering, feeding, soothing, and play are all opportunities to teach communication, trust, and emotional regulation. As a Lead Infant Teacher, you will guide the classroom environment, daily rhythms, and caregiving practices to ensure each child feels safe, seen, and supported. In this role, you will: Influence children's development during their most critical years Partner with families during meaningful moments of growth Work in an environment that values reflection, creativity, and emotional intelligence Be supported as a professional We invest deeply in our educators because we know strong programs are built by supported teachers. We invest deeply in our educators through training from leading experts in early childhood education-helping you grow not only in your profession, but in your personal leadership and purpose. Because we believe great teachers are built from the inside out. East Gate Kids is a model 5-Star early learning center in New Mexico, known for innovation, inclusion, and excellence. We're looking for educators who want to join our team and help take us to the next level-building an elite school that raises the standard for quality education while continuing to serve the children and families who need it most. Our classrooms are beautifully designed, Reggio-inspired environments-carefully created to inspire curiosity, independence, and connection.

Requirements

At least 2 years of professional childcare or teaching experience
A CDC, AA, or BA in Early Childhood Education or be actively pursuing one
Or, actively seeking to earn a degree in Early Childhood Education through the ECECD Scholarship or similar program.
Knowledge of child development and play-based learning
High energy, creativity, and compassion for children and families.
CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)
Ability to work collaboratively in a purpose-driven, mission-minded team that values excellence and heart.

Responsibilities

Create and implement engaging, developmentally appropriate curriculum aligned with NM Early Learning Guidelines and the Reggio Emilia approach.
Lead and inspire your classroom team-model excellence, collaboration, and professionalism while mentoring assistants and interns.
Foster creativity and curiosity through hands-on, nature-based learning experiences that promote social-emotional and cognitive growth.
Communicate effectively with families through daily updates, progress reports, and parent-teacher conferences.
Ensure excellence and compliance with state licensing regulations, FOCUS standards, and East Gate Kids policies.
Document learning through observations, lesson plans, and developmental portfolios.
Engage in continuous growth-participate in trainings, workshops, and professional development to strengthen your craft.
Support a classroom culture rooted in safety, belonging, curiosity, and joy

Benefits

Competitive, living wages with growth opportunities and performance bonuses
Health, dental, vision, and telehealth coverage
Free childcare in our highly sought-after 5-Star program
Up to 80 hours of PTO annually , plus 12+ paid/unpaid holidays for balance and renewal.
Closed for major holidays and a full week off at Christmas to spend time with family and friends.
Free uniforms and parking
Free tuition opportunities for your own children and access to the ECECD Scholarship Pathway to earn your degree in early childcare-start your career, get your degree, and grow with us!
Ongoing professional development led by national experts
Leadership development, advocacy training, and growth pathways
A joyful, purpose-driven workplace where fun, learning, and growth come together every day!