Lead Teacher

ChildRoots • Portland, OR

44d • Onsite

About The Position

ChildRoots, a small family of locally and woman-owned childcare centers in Portland, Oregon, is seeking Lead Teachers for their Northwest location. Since 2007, their progressive, play-based schools have focused on guiding children's social and emotional development while encouraging exploration and inquiry. Lead Teachers work Monday through Friday, 8 hours per day, offering care and teaching for classrooms of children between the ages of zero to five years old. This role is perfect for educators who value collaborative classroom environments that focus on child-led learning and inquiry, have a strong understanding of child development and pedagogy theory, are passionate about mentoring young learners and guiding them through social and emotional development, and can lead and direct a classroom of students and support staff.

Requirements

• Be a Step 7 or higher in the Oregon Registry Online (ORO) system
• Be currently enrolled in Oregon's Central Background Registry (or begin the process and complete it upon receiving confirmation)
• At least 4 years of experience in an ECE classroom setting.
• Meet the teacher-qualification criteria as outlined by the Office of Child Care requirements, which may include:
• Previous experience in a structured childcare environment.
• Completion of college-level courses in early childhood education-related subjects.
• Complete Oregon’s Safety Set Trainings and required certifications:
• Pediatric CPR/First Aid Course (hybrid or fully in-person)
• Oregon Food Handler's Card (online course)
• Introduction to Child Care Health & Safety (online course)
• Recognizing & Reporting Child Abuse & Neglect (online course)
• Prevention is Better than Treatment (online course)
• Safe Sleep for Oregon's Infants (online course)

Nice To Haves

• Degree in Early Childhood Education (or equivalent) preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide primary care and educational support for a consistent group of children.
• Foster a safe, engaging, and child-centered learning environment.
• Design and implement developmentally appropriate activities, lesson planning, and curriculum.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with families, ensuring clear and supportive communication.
• Participate in ongoing professional development and contribute to a positive workplace culture.
• Act as a professional role model for support staff.
• Direct all support staff within your classroom to ensure smooth operations, classroom function, and routine.

Benefits

• Health & Vision Insurance – majority employer-paid
• Dental Insurance – majority employer-paid
• Life Insurance – 100% employer-paid
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Generous company match
• Paid Time Off – Including holidays, a weeklong Winter Break, and professional development opportunities
• Standardized annual merit-based raises and annual PFA wage adjustments
• Long-term commitment bonuses to incentivize teachers to remain with their cohort
• Company-provided continuing education

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree