Lead Teacher (early childhood credits needed)

Join Our Team at Irving Park Early Learning Center! Over 26 Years of Excellence in Early Childhood Education! Since 1999, Irving Park Early Learning Center (IPELC) has been a trusted name in early childhood education. As a family-owned and operated childcare center, we take pride in fostering a supportive, professional, and fun workplace where teachers thrive. Many of our educators have been with us for years—even decades—because we believe in investing in our team and creating a work environment where you feel valued and supported every day. At IPELC, we prioritize a positive and engaging work culture. Whether it’s staff outings, team-building events, parent activities, our annual block parties, or even a staff boat cruise, we make sure our educators enjoy their work while maintaining a professional environment. With two neighboring locations in Chicago, we operate as one united team with strong leadership and a shared passion for early childhood education: IPELC - Whipple (3023 West Montrose) | 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM IPELC - Sacramento (3000 West Montrose) | 7:00 AM - 5:30 PM Now Hiring: Lead Teacher 18 Paid Holidays + Additional PTO! We are looking for an experienced, passionate, and dedicated Lead Teacher to join our team. If you thrive in a dynamic classroom environment and believe in nurturing children’s growth through play and structured learning while also working in a fun and supportive workplace, we’d love to hear from you! Why Join IPELC? Work in a supportive, fun, and professional team environment. Participate in staff outings, team-building events, and parent engagement activities (like our block parties and boat cruises!). Enjoy opportunities for professional growth and development. Competitive pay and a consistent schedule you can count on. This is a full-time, in-person position requiring consistency and punctuality. What We’re Looking For in a Lead Teacher: A nurturing and patient educator who creates a warm, welcoming, and engaging classroom. A strong communicator who can effectively collaborate with staff and parents. An adaptable and proactive problem-solver who thrives in a fast-paced environment. A leader who can guide assistant teachers and foster teamwork. A role model who maintains a professional, polished appearance and adheres to company policies. Qualifications & Requirements: Education: Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Development or a related field. Experience: We are willing to train the right person! Certifications: Willingness to obtain First Aid, CPR, Gateways trainings, and Food Handler certifications. Compliance: Must pass a background check and provide three written references and a DCFS medical form. Fluency in English (reading, writing, and speaking) is required. Bilingual candidates who speak English & Spanish are preferred! What You’ll Do as a Lead Teacher: Implement age-appropriate curriculum that supports social, emotional, and intellectual development. Foster a safe, clean, and engaging classroom environment. Guide and support assistant teachers to ensure smooth classroom operations. Encourage children’s self-regulation and problem-solving skills in a kind and constructive manner. Maintain professional communication with parents and staff. Support children with diapering, toileting, meals, and bottle feeding when needed. Keep classroom spaces organized and sanitized, including light cleaning tasks. Commit to punctuality and occasional additional hours for parent events, staff meetings, and training. Join Our IPELC Family! At IPELC, we don’t just offer a job—we offer a community where teachers feel valued, supported, and excited to come to work every day. If you’re an experienced early childhood educator looking for a fulfilling role in a welcoming and professional environment, apply today! We can't wait to meet you! We offer a competitive compensation package and benefits for qualifying employees including: 18 Days of Paid Holidays (including one week off for Christmas) Paid Time Off (sick time and vacation) Health Insurance: Company pays half Tuition Reimbursement Discounted Childcare and Tuition 401K with Company Match Paid Educational Training and Tuition Assistance Room for advancement and promotional opportunities Job Type: Full-time Pay: $19.00 - $25.00 per hour Expected hours: 40 per week Job Type: Full-time Pay: $19.00 - $25.00 per hour Benefits: 401(k) Employee discount Flexible schedule Health insurance Paid time off Professional development assistance Retirement plan Tuition reimbursement Work Location: In person