Early Head Start Infant/Toddler Lead Teacher (CB)
The Opportunity Alliance
Summary
The Lead Teacher-Infant/Toddler is responsible for providing and overseeing a safe, nurturing, and stimulating learning environment, primarily in a center-based classroom, for the overall growth and development of children & families in accordance with the Family and Early Childhood Education program plan, Head Start Performance Standards, State of Maine licensing rules, and NAEYC Accreditation Standards.
Job description
Schedule
Full-time, 40 hours per week, year-round
Location
Portland, ME
Qualifications
- Infant/Toddler Child Development Associate (CDA) credential and training (or equivalent coursework) in early childhood development with a focus on infant and toddler development, required.
- Associate, baccalaureate or advanced degree in early childhood education, or related degree with equivalent coursework, preferred.
- 1-3 years of supervisory experience preferred.
- 2-4 years of center-based teaching, early intervention, home visiting or community-based work related to infants/toddlers & their families preferred.
- Knowledge of the important role that culture plays in child & family development.
- Demonstrated ability to work effectively with complex information to address challenging situations.
- Demonstrated ability to work effectively with teams.
- Commitment to social justice and the mission of Head Start.
- Must be able to successfully pass a criminal background, child protective service check & sex offender check.
- Must not be on the state or federal suspension and disbarment list.
- If MHRT is required for position you must pass CNA registry check.
- ECE employee must be able to pass pre-employment physical and TB screen.
- ECE must be current on MMR and TDAP immunizations.
- Must be able to exert significant physical effort with frequent standing, walking, reaching, stooping, bending, kneeling, crouching, typing and frequently lift and carry small children or material weighing up to 25 pounds.
- Driving may be necessary to attend meetings and trainings but is not a primarily and essential job responsibility.
Requirements
- Infant/Toddler Child Development Associate (CDA) credential
- Training or equivalent coursework in early childhood development with focus on infant and toddler development
- Knowledge of the role of culture in child & family development
- Demonstrated ability to work effectively with complex information
- Demonstrated ability to work effectively with teams
- Commitment to social justice and the mission of Head Start
- Pass criminal background, child protective service check & sex offender check
- Not on state or federal suspension and disbarment list
- Pass pre-employment physical and TB screen
- Current on MMR and TDAP immunizations
- Ability to exert significant physical effort and lift up to 25 pounds
Benefits
- Paid Time Off
- Paid Holidays
- Floating Holidays
- Medical Benefits
- Dental & Vision Insurance
- Life Insurance
- STD & LTD Disability
- 403(b) Retirement Match
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness
Company overview
The Opportunity Alliance is a comprehensive community action agency and nonprofit organization dedicated to providing mental health care and social services to individuals and families in need. Operating primarily in Maine, the organization focuses on addressing the root causes of poverty and promoting community well-being through integrated service delivery. Their mental health care services encompass counseling, crisis intervention, substance abuse treatment, and support for individuals with mental health challenges. The organization takes a holistic approach to care, combining mental health services with housing assistance, employment support, educational programs, and family strengthening initiatives. As a community-based nonprofit, The Opportunity Alliance works collaboratively with local partners, government agencies, and healthcare providers to create a continuum of care that addresses both immediate needs and long-term solutions for vulnerable populations. Their mission centers on building stronger communities by empowering individuals to overcome barriers and achieve self-sufficiency through comprehensive support systems.