What are the responsibilities and job description for the Early Head Start Teacher position at Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake, Inc.?
Early Head Start Teacher
Full-Time | Early Childhood Education
?? $18.40–$23.00/hour
Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake is hiring an Early Head Start Teacher to support infants and toddlers (birth–3) in a nurturing, developmentally focused classroom or home-based environment.
This role combines teaching, family partnership, and child development support—helping children build strong foundations while supporting families with resources and guidance.
What You’ll Do
- Create a safe, engaging environment that supports infant and toddler development
- Plan and deliver daily and weekly lessons aligned with MSDE and Head Start standards
- Conduct observations, screenings, and track child progress
- Develop and update Individualized Family Service Plans (IFSPs)
- Support daily routines (meals, diapering, toileting, hygiene) and supervise indoor/outdoor activities
- Enter child development data into Teaching Strategies GOLD or MyHeadStart
- Conduct home visits and parent-teacher conferences
- Partner with families to support child development and school readiness
- Provide guidance on safety, nutrition, discipline, and early learning activities
- Connect families to community resources
- Perform daily safety checks and maintain classroom cleanliness
- Document incidents, attendance, and required program records
- Ensure compliance with Head Start, licensing, and program standards
- Participate in staff meetings, case reviews, and professional development
- Support enrollment, recruitment, and community outreach efforts
- Assist with extended-day program coverage as needed
Schedule
- Monday–Friday, 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM program hours
- 7.5-hour workday with flexibility required
- Occasional extended day coverage based on program needs
What We’re Looking For
Education & Experience
- High school diploma or GED required
- Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education or related field preferred
- Minimum 1 year experience with infants/toddlers (birth–3)
Certifications (Required or Within 90 Days)
- 45-Hour Infant & Toddler Certificate
- 90-Hour Child Care Certificate
- Infant-Toddler CDA
- CPR & First Aid (Infant/Toddler)
- Universal Precautions
Preferred:
- 9-Hour Communication Certification
- Valid Maryland driver’s license
Additional Requirements
- CJIS background clearance
- Physical exam and TB screening
Key Strengths for Success
- Passion for early childhood education
- Strong communication and documentation skills
- Ability to build trusting, respectful relationships with families
- Organized, reliable, and team-oriented
- Culturally responsive and non-judgmental approach
Physical Requirements
- Lift up to 50 lbs (frequent lifting up to 25 lbs)
- Standing, bending, and working at floor-level with children throughout the day
Travel
- Up to 25% travel for home visits
- Personal vehicle required (mileage reimbursed)
Why Join Goodwill?
- Mission-driven work supporting children and families
- Stable, federally funded program
- Professional development and credential growth
- Comprehensive benefits
?? Learn more:
https://goodwillches.org/about-us/goodwill-careers/
EOE – Including Disability/Veterans
Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to nondiscrimination in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, age, gender, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, genetic information, national origin, veteran's status or other classification covered by federal, state or local law.
Salary : $18 - $23