Lead Teacher / Teacher Assistant – Early Head Start Collaboration Classroom

Glassboro Child Development Centers•Glassboro, NJ

1d•$18 - $21

About The Position

Glassboro Child Development Centers (GCDC) is seeking a caring and enthusiastic Lead Teacher and/or Teacher Assistant for its Early Head Start collaboration classroom. Depending on qualifications and Child Development Associate (CDA) credential status, candidates may be considered for either role. Both positions work collaboratively to create a safe, nurturing, inclusive, and engaging learning environment that supports each child's individual growth, development, and well-being. The classroom team provides high-quality early childhood education and responsive care while meeting GCDC and Early Head Start collaboration standards. The position works primarily in an infant/toddler classroom and involves active indoor and outdoor supervision, frequent standing, bending, lifting, and movement throughout the day. Employees must safely assist children with daily care routines and respond appropriately to their developmental and physical needs. Occasional evening or weekend agency meetings, training sessions, or events may be required. The schedule is Monday through Friday, with a 40-hour workweek. The role is full-time and non-exempt. Hourly rates are $17.98 for a Teacher Assistant, $19.31 for a Teacher Assistant with qualifying CDA coursework/hours or actively working toward a CDA, and $20.65 for a Lead Teacher with a current qualifying CDA credential. Employees complete at least 12 hours of annual professional development, plus any additional training required by childcare licensing, Early Head Start collaboration standards, or GCDC. Training may cover child development, curriculum, assessment, infant and early childhood mental health, health and safety, positive guidance, family engagement, diversity, equity and inclusion, and other relevant early childhood topics. The Lead Teacher has primary responsibility for classroom planning, curriculum implementation, developmental documentation, and coordination of daily classroom activities, in collaboration with the Teacher Assistant and Site Director.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Ability to meet applicable childcare licensing, background check, and Early Head Start collaboration requirements.
CPR and First Aid certification, or ability to obtain the required certification within the designated timeframe.
Ability to work collaboratively with children, families, classroom staff, and supervisors.
Dependability, patience, professionalism, and commitment to providing high-quality care.
For Lead Teacher: Current, qualifying CDA credential appropriate to the classroom age group, or another credential that satisfies applicable Early Head Start qualification requirements.

Nice To Haves

For Teacher Assistant candidates without a CDA: relevant coursework, experience, or active progress toward obtaining a CDA.
One year of experience working with infants or toddlers in a licensed childcare setting.
Knowledge of early childhood development and developmentally appropriate practices.
Experience with observations, developmental assessments, and individualized learning activities.
Familiarity with Early Head Start, Head Start Program Performance Standards, or similar early childhood programs.

Responsibilities

Create a welcoming, inclusive, and nurturing environment that supports positive relationships with children and families.
Plan, implement, and support developmentally appropriate learning experiences through play, exploration, and daily routines.
Provide attentive, active supervision, maintain appropriate child-to-staff ratios, and ensure children's safety.
Support individualized learning, developmental milestones, and children's social-emotional growth.
Observe children, document developmental progress, and assist with screenings, assessments, and individualized learning plans.
Maintain accurate classroom records and documentation in accordance with program expectations.
Support positive behavior guidance and responsive caregiving practices.
Communicate professionally with families about children's daily experiences, progress, and needs.
Assist with feeding, diapering, toileting, handwashing, rest periods, and other personal care routines.
Maintain a clean, organized, safe, and engaging classroom environment.
Follow GCDC policies, childcare licensing regulations, health and safety requirements, and applicable Early Head Start standards.
Participate in classroom planning, team meetings, professional development, and continuous quality improvement activities.
As Lead Teacher, take primary responsibility for classroom planning, curriculum implementation, developmental documentation, and coordination of daily classroom activities in collaboration with the Teacher Assistant and Site Director.