What are the responsibilities and job description for the Preschool Lead Teacher position at Inicio Playschool?
Overview
Are you a strong leader passionate about making a meaningful impact in early childhood education? Join Inicio Playschool as a Lead Preschool Educator and enjoy the freedom to shape curriculum, spark curiosity, and inspire young minds.
About Us
Inicio Playschool is a locally owned, director-operated preschool. Because we are not part of a corporate entity or franchise, we provide teachers with the flexibility, autonomy, and support they need to thrive as educators.
We are currently hiring a Lead Educator for our preschool classroom.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead a safe, nurturing, and engaging classroom with strong routines and smooth transitions.
- Plan and implement developmentally appropriate curriculum and learning experiences.
- Foster children’s social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development through responsive teaching.
- Build positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues through strong communication and teamwork.
- Maintain licensing standards, classroom cleanliness, and daily operational needs (including meals, toileting/diapering support as needed).
- Complete required professional development and maintain MERIT requirements.
Required Qualifications
- Must be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or equivalent. [Before Hire]
- Minimum three (3) years of teaching experience with preschool age kids.[Before Hire]
- Exceptional classroom management skills required, including the ability to confidently lead a classroom, support toddler behaviors, and maintain consistent routines. [Before Hire]
- Registered in MERIT with cleared background check. [Before Hire]
- 30 hours of Child Care Basics (STARS) or equivalent. [At Hire, Prior to Start Date]
- Current TB test, MMR documentation, First Aid/CPR, Bloodborne Pathogens training, and Food Handler Permit. [At Hire, Prior to Start Date]
- Strong communication skills, flexibility, professionalism, and a passion for early childhood education.
- ECE Initial Certificate (or equivalent) within five years of hire and ECE Short Certificate (or equivalent) within two years of receiving the Initial Certificate.
Compensation
Starting salary is based on education and experience. Employees complete a 90-day probationary period, after which performance and compensation are reviewed and adjusted based on merit.
Physical Demands
This role requires lifting and carrying children up to 50 pounds, kneeling, crouching, bending, sitting on the floor, and moving frequently throughout the day in an active preschool environment.
Work Environment
Work is performed in an early childhood school setting with moderate to loud noise levels.
Location
This position is based in Ballard, Seattle. Reliable daily commuting during peak traffic hours is required. Please check commute time before applying; generally, a commute exceeding 20–30 minutes each way in traffic may not be the best fit for this role. Please do not apply if your commute time is longer than that.
Pay: $26.00 - $35.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
Salary : $26 - $35