Infant–Toddler Lead Teacher
Montessori Magpie – Chicago, IL
Montessori Magpie currently has openings for an Infant–Toddler Lead Teacher, working with children ages 6 weeks to 2.5 years old. This is a shared teaching position with small class sizes, strong support, and a team of motivated, proactive educators who are passionate about creating a dynamic, inspiring environment.
We are seeking the same in you.Experience working with infants and toddlers is a must, as is a firm understanding of child development from birth. Come join us!
About the Role
This full-time position blends Montessori, Reggio Emilia–inspired practice, and responsive caregiving. You’ll lead with warmth, professionalism, and curiosity while creating a safe, engaging, developmentally grounded environment for our youngest learners.
Qualifications
Required
- Experience working with infants and toddlers (6 weeks–2.5 years)
- Strong understanding of child development from birth
- Knowledge or familiarity with current theories and best practices in Early Childhood Education
- Ability to work in an interdisciplinary, highly collaborative environment integrating Reggio Emilia and Montessori approaches
- Enthusiasm for learning on the job and growing alongside your teaching team
- Ability to work cooperatively with co-teachers, assistants, Education Coordinator, Director, and administrative staff
- Ability and willingness to follow all center and DCFS Rule 407 policies
- Ability to work in a fast-paced childcare environment
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Strong organizational and time-management skills
- Ability to create and submit weekly lesson plans in advance that support growth and development—and implement those plans consistently
- Ability to assess children’s growth using center assessment tools
- Patience, maturity, emotional steadiness, and a genuine love of very young children
Education & Training
- Lead Teachers: Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a closely related field (preferred)
- Equivalent degrees must include a minimum of 30 semester hours in ECE or Child Development
- Minimum 2 years of early childhood classroom experience (3–5 years preferred)
- Infant/Toddler Montessori training is preferred but not required
Who We’re Looking For
We value educators who are:
- Grounded, professional, and down-to-earth
- Approachable and warm, yet able to hold boundaries and lead confidently
- Flexible, responsible, and dependable
- Reflective practitioners who welcome feedback
- Curious, motivated, and humble, with a desire to grow through a substantial learning curve
- Able to communicate clearly, collaborate deeply, and uphold high standards of care and professionalism
We are looking for emotional intelligence, drive, and the ability to help build a healthy, positive, and respectful team culture.
Growth & Leadership Pathway
Montessori Magpie deeply invests in internal growth. After demonstrating:
- Accountability and reliability
- Alignment with Magpie’s pedagogy and DCFS standards
- Ability to support colleagues and uphold classroom systems
There is significant opportunity to move into leadership, including:
- Program Lead (Infant–Toddler)
- Administrative or Pedagogical Leadership Positions
We actively promote from within for those who show genuine commitment, skill, and integrity.
What You’ll Do
- Co-lead an infant–toddler classroom with intention, warmth, and professionalism
- Build nurturing, responsive relationships with children and families
- Develop developmentally grounded lesson plans and emergent curriculum
- Document observations, daily notes, and developmental progress
- Maintain a safe, organized, beautiful classroom environment
- Collaborate closely with your team and leadership
- Uphold Montessori Magpie’s standards of practice and DCFS compliance
Why Join Montessori Magpie?
- Supportive, mission-driven school culture
- Collaborative teaching model
- Opportunities for professional growth and advancement
- Beautiful classrooms and rich learning environments
- A leadership team that values authenticity, curiosity, and staff wellbeing
If the idea of working with a passionate, dedicated, and creative team excites you—and if exploring learning in novel and meaningful ways lights you up—we would love to hear from you.
How to Apply
Email your résumé, unofficial transcripts, and a brief statement of interest to: [email protected] Subject line: Infant–Toddler Lead Teacher Application
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $18.00 - $24.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Retirement plan
- Tuition reimbursement
Application Question(s):
- Are you willing to undergo a State of IL required background check?
Education:
Experience:
- early childhood education: 2 years (Required)
License/Certification:
- CPR Certification (Preferred)
Shift availability:
Work Location: In person
