What are the responsibilities and job description for the Lead Toddler Teacher position at Widdle Ones Childcare Center?
Lead Toddler Teacher
Schenectady, NY 12303 | Widdle Ones Childcare Center (DCC) | Full-time | Onsite
Short summary: Lead a toddler classroom (ages 18-36 months), coach assistant teachers, and deliver a developmentally appropriate curriculum in a warm, compliant, and growth-focused center.
Compensation and Benefits
- Pay: $20.00–$22.00 per hour
- Paid time off and holidays
- Paid OCFS/NYCDOHMH trainings; ongoing professional development
- Supportive team culture with growth opportunities
Requirements (Must-Haves)
- 18 years old
- Pass New York Child Care Comprehensive Background Check (CBC)
- Complete all required OCFS/NYCDOHMH trainings upon hire
- Physical: sit on small chairs, squat, bend, move easily from sitting to standing, lift up to 30 lbs, lightly jog/run in an emergency
Group Teacher Qualifications — Infants/Toddlers (meet one path)
- Bachelor's degree in early childhood, Child Development, or related field; 6 months caring for infants/toddlers; OR
- Associate degree in Early Childhood, Child Development, or related field; 1 year caring for infants/toddlers; OR
- Infant–Toddler credential (e.g., Infant–Toddler CDA or other Office-recognized); 2 years related experience; OR
- CDA; 2 years caring for children, including 1 year with infants/toddlers
Nice-to-Haves
- Experience leading or mentoring assistant teachers
- Familiarity with developmental screening tools and ongoing assessment
- Strong family communication skills (daily updates, conferences)
Reporting line: Reports to the Director.
Responsibilities
- Lead a cohesive toddler teaching team; coach and mentor assistant teachers and volunteers
- Plan and deliver developmentally appropriate curriculum (individual and group activities) that supports physical, social, cognitive, and emotional growth
- Create a positive, nurturing environment; provide proactive emotional and behavioral support
- Establish clear, age-appropriate expectations and routines; uphold hygiene, cleanliness, and safety standards
- Conduct developmental screenings and ongoing assessments; maintain accurate records, forms, and files
- Communicate frequently with families via daily updates, progress reports, and conferences
- Ensure compliance with center policies and state/local regulations
- Maintain a professional development plan for continuous improvement
Pay: $21.00 - $23.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Childcare
- Employee discount
- Flexible schedule
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Referral program
Education:
- Associate (Required)
Shift availability:
- Day Shift (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $20 - $22