Toddler Lead Teacher – Job Description (DCY)
Position Summary:
We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Toddler Lead Teacher to join our early childhood education program. The ideal candidate is passionate about working with young children, understands child development, and can create a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment in accordance with The Ohio Department of Children and Youth (DCY) licensing rules.
Key Responsibilities:
- Plan and implement developmentally appropriate curriculum aligned with Ohio’s Early Learning and Development Standards
- Provide a safe, healthy, and nurturing environment that meets all licensing requirements (Chapter 5101:2-12)
- Ensure active supervision of children at all times and maintain appropriate staff-to-child ratios
- Complete and maintain accurate records including attendance, incident/injury reports, and child assessments as required by DCY
- Conduct regular observations and assessments using approved tools (e.g., ASQ or center-approved assessments)
- Maintain daily communication with families regarding children’s development and classroom activities
- Ensure proper sanitation, handwashing, diapering, and food service procedures per DCY guidelines
- Implement behavior management strategies that follow DCY/ELC discipline policies
- Participate in required professional development and complete annual in-service training hours per DCY/ELC requirements
- Maintain compliance with Step Up To Quality (SUTQ) standards, including classroom quality assessments and documentation
- Supervise and support assistant teachers and aides in the classroom
Qualifications:
- Must meet DCY Lead Teacher qualifications for a licensed child care center
- High school diploma or GED required
- CDA (Child Development Associate) or Associate’s/Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or related field preferred
- Minimum experience working in a licensed early childhood setting required
- Completion of DCY required trainings, including:
- Child Abuse and Neglect Recognition and Prevention
- First Aid, CPR, and Communicable Disease certification
- Orientation and Health & Safety training
- Ability to pass BCI/FBI background check and meet all DCY eligibility requirements
- Must be approved in the Ohio Professional Registry (OPR) as a Lead Teacher
- Strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills
- Must provide verifiable professional references
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to lift, carry, and move up to 40 pounds
- Ability to sit, stand, bend, kneel, and actively engage with children for extended periods
- Ability to respond quickly to children’s needs in emergency situations
- Must be able to work both indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions
Compensation & Benefits:
- Pay range: $14.00– $21 per hour (based on education and experience)
- Full-time, 40 hours per week
- Monday – Friday
- Typical shifts: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM or 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Benefits may include: Simple IRA, paid time off, professional development, credit union and childcare discount (if applicable)
Work Environment:
- Licensed child care center regulated by DCY
- Participation in Step Up To Quality (SUTQ) program, requiring adherence to higher quality standards, assessments, and continuous improvement practices
- Fast-paced, team-oriented environment focused on high-quality early care and education
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $14.50 - $21.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Employee discount
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Retirement plan
Application Question(s):
- Do you have a Child Development Associates Certificate (CDA)? If not are you willing to earn one?
Education:
- High school or equivalent (Required)
Ability to Commute:
- Cleveland, OH 44118 (Preferred)
Ability to Relocate:
- Cleveland, OH 44118: Relocate before starting work (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
