Early Childhood Educator - Preschool
About This Role
Based in Essex Jct., this support staff member opening at Reach For The Stars Childcare & Preschool pays $21 – $25/Hr and requires the appropriate background.
Join Our Compassionate Team in Essex Junction
Are you driven by a passion for helping young children learn, grow, and explore the world? Join our dedicated, collaborative teaching team in Essex Junction, where your enthusiasm and creativity are truly valued. We’re seeking an energetic educator who loves building meaningful relationships, values a supportive work environment, and strives to make a lasting impact every day.
At our four-star childcare center, we believe that when educators feel valued, supported, and inspired, children flourish. We’ve created a warm, welcoming space where curiosity is encouraged, relationships matter, and both children and educators are given the freedom to grow and develop.
We are always accepting applications for this role.
What You'll Do
The Role
This is a fulfilling opportunity to help children build a solid foundation as they prepare for Kindergarten and beyond. You’ll create a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where children feel confident to explore and learn. Our emergent, play-based curriculum is designed to harness children’s natural curiosity, allowing them to learn and grow at their own pace.
What Sets Our Program Apart
- A supportive, family-like team that celebrates each other’s successes and growth
- A child-centered philosophy that prioritizes play, discovery, and social-emotional learning
- A leadership team that listens, encourages growth, and respects work-life balance
- A warm, inclusive environment where educators feel appreciated and empowered to make a difference
Your Responsibilities
- Establish a warm, welcoming environment where every child feels safe, valued, and encouraged to learn
- Design engaging, play-based learning experiences that cater to children’s interests and developmental needs
- Observe children and use those insights to inform curriculum planning and adapt activities accordingly
- Support each child’s growth, developmentally, socially, and emotionally, fostering a strong sense of well-being and confidence
- Build strong, positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues, creating a collaborative and supportive community
Who We’re Seeking
We’re looking for someone who:
- Brings enthusiasm, patience, and creativity to the classroom, inspiring children to learn and grow
- Enjoys working independently and collaboratively, valuing the strengths of a diverse team
- Communicates with warmth, clarity, and empathy, building strong relationships with children, families, and colleagues
- Is committed to being a positive role model, helping children learn and grow in a safe, supportive environment
- Has experience in early childhood education (or a strong desire to learn and grow in the field)
Requirements
Required Qualifications
We’re seeking candidates who meet Teacher Associate (or higher) qualifications per Vermont regulations, including one of the following:
- An Associate’s degree in Early Education, Child or Human Development, Elementary Education, or Child & Family Services plus at least one year of experience working with children (grade 3 or younger)
- Completion of the Childcare Apprenticeship Program
- A Childcare Certificate from CCV plus one year of relevant experience
- At least 21 college credits in early childhood or school-age education plus one year of experience with children (grade 3 or younger)
Not sure if you qualify? We encourage you to apply—we’re happy to help determine eligibility & how we might support you with your personal and professional goals in the field of early education.
Benefits
What You’ll Love About Working Here
Common Questions
What is the education required for this position?
At least an associate degree is required
What does this position pay?
This Early Childhood Educator - Preschool role pays $21 to $25/Hr.
Is this full-time or part-time?
This job is Full Time.
Where is Reach For The Stars Childcare & Preschool located?
Reach For The Stars Childcare & Preschool is located at 5 Ewing Place, Essex Jct., VT