About Us
Little Caterpillar Academy is a new bilingual early learning center in Issaquah, WA, building on the strong foundation and reputation of our long-running family daycare program, The Little Caterpillars. We serve children ages 1–5 years old in a warm, nurturing, and play-based environment that emphasizes bilingual immersion (English + Mandarin), social-emotional growth, and strong partnerships with families.
Your Role
This is a full-time position, working Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
This role is primarily Mandarin Chinese–focused. The teacher is responsible for delivering Mandarin-language learning and daily care, while collaborating with English-speaking teaching partners.
Responsibilities include:
- Plan and lead engaging Mandarin Chinese activities, including circle time, songs, stories, art, and daily routines
- Use Mandarin Chinese consistently and naturally throughout the day during play, transitions, and caregiving routines
- Support children’s language development, social skills, and emotional growth through play-based learning
- Collaborate with English teachers to support a balanced bilingual classroom environment
- Observe and document children’s progress and share updates with families
- Maintain a safe, warm, and developmentally appropriate classroom
- Follow all licensing, health, and safety requirements
Required Qualifications
- Must be 18 years or older with a high school diploma or GED
- Fluency in Mandarin Chinese
- Fluent English communication skills to collaborate with staff and communicate with parents
- 2–3 years of experience working with children ages 1–5 in a licensed childcare or early learning setting
- ECE Initial Certificate, ECE Short Certificate, or ECE State Certificate, or currently working toward one
Preferred Qualifications
- Lead Teacher experience in a family home daycare or center-based program
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field
- Experience in bilingual or immersion programs
- CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)
Why Join Us?
- Competitive compensation, based on experience
- Opportunity for performance-based bonuses
- Paid holidays: approximately 8 days per year
- Paid winter break: two weeks, aligned with the Lake Washington School District calendar
- Paid sick leave
- Small class sizes with strong teacher–child ratios
- Supportive, respectful, and family-like work environment
- Paid professional development support
- Long-term growth opportunities as our center expands
How to Apply
Please send your resume and a short note about your experience working with young children and Mandarin Chinese language instruction to:
[email protected]
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $20.00 - $25.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
Education:
- High school or equivalent (Required)
Experience:
- Early childhood education: 2 years (Preferred)
Language:
- Mandarin Chinese (Required)
License/Certification:
- WA ECE initial, short, or state certificate (Preferred)
Ability to Commute:
- Issaquah, WA 98027 (Required)
Work Location: In person
