KinderCare Education

Lead Early Childhood Teacher

Location : Northbrook, IL, 60062

Job Type : Full Time

Date Posted : 10 May 2026

Company Overview:

KinderCare Learning Companies, a recipient of the Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award, delivers high-quality early childhood education through KinderCare Learning Centers, Champions, and Crème de la Crème programs. The organization is dedicated to supporting children, families, and staff by offering accredited, research-based, and personalized learning experiences.

Role and Responsibilities:

In this Lead Early Childhood Teacher role, you will guide children’s learning, support staff growth, and maintain a safe, encouraging classroom environment. You will collaborate with families, team members, and community partners to help every child reach their greatest potential.

Guide, support, and mentor newer educators by demonstrating best practices and providing constructive feedback.
Deliver KinderCare’s curriculum in ways that meet the individual needs of each child.
Maintain a safe, caring, and stimulating space for learning and play.
Work closely with families to provide exceptional care and educational experiences.
Assist with center objectives related to enrollment, accreditation, and overall engagement.
Build and sustain positive relationships with families, co-workers, licensing representatives, community contacts, and corporate partners.

Required Skills and Experience:

Strong customer service skills and the ability to stay organized while managing multiple tasks.
An active Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential or qualification to meet NAEYC candidacy requirements.
Approved state trainer status (preferred).
2–3 years of early childhood education experience (preferred).
Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education (preferred).
Meets state requirements or willing to meet them.
Current CPR and First Aid certification or willingness to obtain.
Able to lift at least 40 pounds and work both indoors and outdoors.
Physically able to interact with children at their level and participate in active play.
Proficient in English to communicate with children and families.

Compensation and Benefits:

Hourly pay range: $19.38 – $24.84.
Minnesota locations offer an additional $3.00 per hour classroom premium through the Minnesota Great Start Grant Compensation Support Program.
Employee child care discounts.
Medical, dental, and vision benefits.
Employee assistance programs supporting mental health and personal well-being.
Wellness programs, paid time off, and discounts on essential work items.

About KinderCare Learning Companies:

KinderCare Learning Companies operates more than 2,000 sites nationwide across 40 states and Washington, D.C. The organization uses research-driven, accredited, and customizable programs to serve families. KinderCare Learning Companies is committed to ensuring that every family has access to exceptional child care and to creating meaningful experiences for children, families, and staff.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran or military status, gender identity or expression, or any other protected classification.