Teacher

Location: Huntington, IN
Job Type: Full-Time
Hours: Mon-Fri 8:45a-5:45p (40 hrs./wk.)
Starting Pay: $17.15-$22.61/hr. (based on level of education)

About the Role

The Teacher at Pathfinder Early Learning Center is responsible for planning and executing developmentally appropriate learning experiences for enrolled children. This role involves partnering with families and peers to deliver individualized and multicultural programming within the classroom while adhering to Indiana Child Care Licensing Guidelines, the NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct and Standards, and Paths to Quality regulations.

Pathfinder’s mission is to strengthen communities by enabling people with disabilities or economic challenges to achieve autonomy, inclusion, and stability.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement lesson plans that align with assessment data and follow NAEYC, FSSA, and Paths to Quality standards, ensuring practices are developmentally appropriate.
• Build strong partnerships with families to support high-quality early childhood programming, sharing regular assessments of children’s development and progress.
• Provide opportunities for children to engage in hands-on experiences and activities that promote learning and growth.
• Implement a consistent schedule of activities tailored to meet Indiana Child Care Licensing Guidelines and the unique needs of individual children.
• Utilize the Conscious Discipline Curriculum to teach and reinforce social-emotional skills.
• Ensure classroom practices comply with health and safety regulations, positive discipline practices, and required postings according to Indiana Childcare Licensing Regulations.
• Work cooperatively with colleagues to create a supportive, engaging, and predictable learning environment for children, staff, and families.
• Maintain 20 hours of annual training related to Early Childhood Development to enhance skills and knowledge.

Requirements

• Minimum of a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential; an associate or bachelor’s degree in early childhood education or a related field is preferred.
• Must be at least 18 years old (21+ to work independently with infants and toddlers).
• Demonstrated ability to support children’s growth and development; prior experience in early childhood education is advantageous.
• Strong conflict resolution, organizational, and problem-solving skills; ability to adapt and remain calm in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
• Capable of essential physical tasks, including lifting up to 50 pounds, squatting, stooping, and implementing CPR/First Aid when necessary.
• Friendly, approachable demeanor with a professional appearance and commitment to integrity, confidentiality, and a positive work ethic.
• Strong written, verbal, and documentation skills in English.

Benefits

• Competitive pay and paid training.
• Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid holidays.
• Comprehensive insurance coverage: Medical, Dental, and Vision plans.
• Employer-paid Basic Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability (STD), and Long-Term Disability (LTD).
• 403(b) Retirement Plan with employer match.
• Tuition reimbursement for continued education.
• Professional development and training opportunities, including Person-Centered Thinking Training.
• Wellness platform incentives and financial wellness platform for earned wage access before payday.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offering free, confidential support sessions for employees and their immediate household members.
• Free Pathfinder Kids Clinic providing childcare for children in the community with minor illnesses.
• Exclusive discounts, including Verizon Wireless and YMCA membership discounts.