Lead Preschool Teacher (Full-Time)

Summary

Join our team at Building Blocks Child Care Center, Inc., a Washington State licensed, Early Achievers Level 4–rated, independent childcare center located in Pullman, WA.

We are currently accepting applications and scheduling interviews for a Preschool Teacher position serving children ages 2.5–4 years.

We are seeking a reliable and experienced early childhood professional who can confidently manage a classroom, implement developmentally appropriate curriculum, and contribute to a strong, collaborative team. The ideal candidate demonstrates strong organization, classroom leadership, and communication skills, along with a solid understanding of child development.

Position: Preschool Teacher (ages 2.5–4 years)

Start Date: As soon as the right candidate is selected

Compensation: $17.25–$22.50 per hour

Most candidates start at the lower end of the range, with opportunities for scheduled wage increases based on positive performance evaluations and completion of at least 10 hours of annual continuing education.

Schedule:

• Full-Time: Monday–Friday, 8:45 AM – 4:45 PM

Duties

Duties: General Position Description

The Lead Teacher oversees all daily operations within a developmentally appropriate classroom (infant, toddler, preschool, or school-age). This role requires confident, independent classroom management in accordance with Washington State child-to-teacher ratios (preschool 1:10; up to 20 children with two teachers). The Lead Teacher supervises assistant staff and collaborates with a co-teacher and the Curriculum & Classroom Specialist to ensure consistency and program quality.

This is a leadership role within the classroom. The Lead Teacher is responsible for building a cohesive, high-functioning teaching team, implementing engaging curriculum, and managing daily classroom operations.

Success in this role requires strong organization, effective time management, and confident classroom and behavior management skills. The Lead Teacher sets the tone for structure, consistency, and positive guidance within the classroom.

We are seeking professionals who demonstrate a growth mindset and are open to feedback and continuous improvement. A strong understanding of children’s cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development is essential to creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment. Strong communication skills are required to effectively support children, lead staff, and build positive partnerships with families.

What You’ll Do (Daily Responsibilities)

• Plan and implement developmentally appropriate curriculum and activities
• Lead daily routines (meals, toileting, rest time, transitions, and care)
• Maintain a safe, clean, and engaging classroom environment
• Model positive guidance and effective communication with children
• Complete child assessments and participate in parent conferences
• Communicate regularly with families through daily interactions and updates
• Lead and support assistant teachers, aides, and volunteers
• Ensure compliance with licensing and Early Achievers standards
• Complete required documentation and maintain accurate records

Key Responsibilities

• Create and implement curriculum aligned with early learning standards
• Lead by example through professionalism, consistency, and teamwork
• Support and coach teaching staff to maintain a strong classroom team
• Plan engaging activities that support social, emotional, and cognitive growth
• Maintain a structured, well-managed classroom environment
• Ensure all health, safety, and hygiene standards are consistently met
• Supervise staff to ensure adherence to classroom expectations and safety protocols
• Maintain organized, accurate records and documentation
• Participate in ongoing professional development and continuous quality improvement

Requirements

Required Education & Experience

Candidates must meet one of the following qualifications:

• Minimum Option 1:45 college quarter hours in Early Childhood Education (or equivalent), and
• At least 1 year of experience leading a Preschool or Kindergarten classroom

OR

• Minimum Option 2:Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential, and
• At least 2 years of full-time experience in a group childcare setting, and
• At least 1 year of experience as a Lead Teacher in a Preschool or Kindergarten classroom

OR

• Equivalent education/experience may be considered. Candidates must be willing to sign an education plan agreement to meet Lead Teacher requirements as defined by the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF).
• Reference: WAC 110-300-0100

This role requires prior experience as a Lead Teacher in a preschool or early learning program within a licensed childcare setting.

Candidates must meet and understand requirements outlined in:

• WAC 110-300-0120 (staff health and professional requirements)
• WAC 110-300-0105 (preservice requirements)

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or Elementary Education
• 3+ years experience leading a Preschool or Kindergarten classroom
• 5+ years experience in a group childcare setting

Training Requirements

Upon hire and before working in the classroom:

• DCYF background clearance
• Negative TB test
• Bloodborne Pathogens training
• Mandated Reporter training
• Safe Sleep training

Within 90 days of hire:

• CPR & First Aid Certification
• Child Care Basics Certification

Additional Knowledge, Skills & Requirements

• Minimum 3 years of professional, full-time classroom experience
• Strong understanding of child development
• Effective oral and written communication skills; basic computer proficiency
• Ability to work collaboratively with staff, children, and families
• Must obtain and maintain Infant/Child CPR & First Aid certification
• Must pass a full background check
• State-specific requirements available upon request

Physical Requirements

• Ability to move actively throughout the day, including walking, standing, kneeling, bending, squatting, and lifting up to 35 lbs.
• Ability to use hands and fingers to handle objects and classroom materials
• Ability to communicate clearly and hear across varying noise levels
• Visual ability including close vision, distance vision, color recognition, peripheral vision, and depth perception

Benefits

Compensation & Benefits

Compensation

Hourly wage is based on education and experience. The posted range reflects candidates from minimum qualifications up to those with 10+ years of experience and a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field.

Employees are eligible for wage increases based on performance. Raises are considered after the first year of employment following successful 1-month, 90-day, and annual evaluations demonstrating consistent growth. Additional merit increases may be awarded at any time for exceptional performance beyond standard job expectations.

Benefits Available Upon Hire

• Accrual of sick leave

• Accrual of Washington State Paid Family & Medical Leave
• Childcare benefit: Full tuition coverage for children ages 1+ (space available), valued at approximately $1,500–$2,900 per month per child Equivalent to approximately $18,000–$35,000+ per year in added compensation value

• Scholarship opportunities for continued education in Early Childhood Education (including Bachelor’s degree pathway)

Benefits Available After 1-Year Evaluation (Full-Time Staff)

Benefit selections are based on participation in the childcare benefit:

• Employees utilizing the childcare benefit: May select 1 option
• Employees not utilizing the childcare benefit: May select up to 3 options

Available benefit options:

• 20% health reimbursement (toward private health insurance)
• Paid Time Off (3 days per calendar year)
• Paid holidays (6 per calendar year)
• Health & Wellness Package:
• 1 paid wellness day per quarter
• 25% gym membership reimbursement