Lead Educator

Yellow Brick Road•Grimes, IA

7d•$16 - $18

About The Position

The Lead Educator provides a nurturing, positive, and innovative learning environment where children can thrive and develop skills for lifelong success. The role supports children’s love of learning, social and emotional development, and academic foundations through communication, collaboration, and curriculum planning. Educators create a safe, stimulating, inclusive classroom in which each child is valued, respected, and supported on their individual learning journey. The Lead Educator implements play-based, age-appropriate activities aligned with early learning standards; observes and documents children’s development; supports positive classroom culture and behavior; maintains a clean and sanitary classroom; and communicates regularly with families. The role also includes collaboration with colleagues and school leadership and participation in ongoing professional development. The position requires meeting Iowa Department of Human Services qualifications for a Lead Educator in a licensed child care center, relevant early childhood education experience, and the ability to meet the physical demands of caring for young children. CPR/First Aid certification is required or must be obtained within 30 days of employment. The listed Iowa pay range is $16–$18 USD.

Requirements

Meet Department of Human Services qualifications for a Lead Educator in a licensed child care center.
Demonstrated experience working with young children in a licensed early childhood education setting.
Knowledge of early childhood development principles and best practices.
Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
Ability to meet the physical demands of the job, including extended standing or sitting; lifting and carrying children and classroom materials up to 40 lbs.; bending, stooping, and kneeling; and responding quickly to emergencies or situations requiring physical intervention.
Willingness to undergo background checks and meet state licensing requirements for working in a childcare setting.
Valid CPR/First Aid certification, or willingness to obtain certification within 30 days of employment.
Ability to regularly use technology such as Microsoft Office, online lesson planning, and daily reporting.

Responsibilities

Implement play-based, age-appropriate lesson plans and activities that support children’s physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development and align with early learning standards.
Help maintain a classroom culture that fosters belonging, safety, and curiosity.
Observe and assess each child’s development and progress, tailoring instruction and support to individual learning needs.
Maintain accurate, up-to-date documentation of children’s progress and development.
Establish and maintain a positive, respectful classroom where children feel safe, supported, and valued.
Clean and sanitize the classroom daily, including toys, surfaces, and equipment.
Manage classroom behavior using positive reinforcement and guidance techniques.
Communicate daily with families through the company’s Parent Communication app, sharing updates on children’s progress, activities, and development; use phone, written, and in-person communication as needed or required by company policy.
Collaborate with families to support children’s learning and development at school and at home.
Participate in ongoing professional development and training.
Collaborate with colleagues and school leadership to share ideas, resources, and best practices.