Support Teacher

The Gardner School • Chicago, IL

1d • $16 - $19 • Onsite

About The Position

The Gardner School of Chicago-West Loop is hiring a Support Teacher to work in its Infant, Toddler, and Two's programs. The role supports classroom teams and contributes to children’s development, safety, and daily routines in a preschool environment. The school describes itself as a state-of-the-art preschool with a professional, supportive, mission-driven culture that values employees’ ideas and growth.

The Support Teacher engages with children, provides classroom coverage for Assistant Teachers during breaks or absences, helps keep classrooms clean and organized, and assists with classroom routines and tasks. The position requires professional communication and a flexible, team-oriented approach, as well as following school policies, procedures, licensing regulations, and safety standards.

The stated pay range is $16.20–$18.50 per hour, based on education and experience. Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, a 401(k) with company match, childcare tuition discount, paid holidays, and professional development opportunities. The school also offers ongoing training, advancement opportunities, access to a company-sponsored CDA program, and a supportive, mission-driven culture.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• CPR/First Aid Certification or willingness to obtain it.
• Meet all state-specific licensing and experience requirements.
• Be eligible to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.
• Maintain regular and reliable attendance.
• Show passion for early childhood education and a nurturing, joyful approach to care.
• Have intermediate PC skills and proficiency with general administrative tasks.
• Be able to engage throughout the day, including standing, sitting on the floor, bending, and lifting up to approximately 60 pounds.
• Be able to fulfill the cognitive and interpersonal aspects of classroom leadership, including speaking, hearing, reading, writing, focusing attention, and building relationships.
• Read, write, speak, and understand English fluently enough to communicate effectively with students, families, and staff, implement curriculum and safety procedures, and complete written reports.
• Be able to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.

Nice To Haves

• Previous experience in early childhood settings.
• Interest in growing within a supportive, mission-driven preschool environment.

Responsibilities

• Engage children in meaningful interactions that support development.
• Step into classrooms to support Assistant Teachers during breaks or absences.
• Help maintain classroom cleanliness, organization, and routine.
• Communicate respectfully and professionally with teachers and leadership.
• Model a supportive, flexible, and team-oriented attitude.
• Supervise children and maintain safety standards.
• Follow all policies, procedures, and licensing regulations.
• Assist in maintaining child-to-staff ratios and completing classroom tasks.

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Paid time off
• 401(k) with company match
• Childcare tuition discount
• Paid holidays
• Professional development opportunities
• Ongoing professional development and training
• Opportunities for advancement within the organization
• Access to a company-sponsored CDA program

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED