Early Head Start Teacher

Description

Company: Pathfinder

Job Title: Early Head Start Teacher 

Category: Childcare & Education

Location: Huntington, IN

Job Type: Full-Time

Hours: Mon-Fri 7:30a-4:30p (40/hrs.)

Starting Pay: $17.15-$22.61/hr. (based on level of education)

Make a Difference from the Start.

As an Early Head Start Teacher at Pathfinder, you’ll help nurture young minds through purposeful, play-based learning. This role supports children ages 0–3 during critical years of development by building strong relationships, honoring family culture, and creating a safe, enriching classroom environment.

As an Early Head Start Teacher at Pathfinder, You Will:

Learning & Curriculum Planning

• Develop and implement weekly lesson plans aligned with assessment data and the Early Learning Outcomes Framework
• Create culturally responsive, hands-on activities that support development in all learning domains
• Use Conscious Discipline and developmentally appropriate practices to foster emotional growth

Child Development Support

• Complete and document developmental screenings within 45 days of enrollment and on an ongoing basis
• Track child progress and partner with families to set individualized learning goals
• Ensure daily routines promote exploration, independence, and safety

Family Engagement & Communication

• Conduct regular home visits and parent-teacher conferences
• Support parent involvement through shared goal setting and nutrition assessments
• Communicate regularly and respectfully with families from diverse backgrounds

Compliance & Classroom Environment

• Follow and implement all Indiana Child Care Licensing Guidelines and Head Start Performance Standards
• Maintain a safe, predictable classroom in line with NAEYC and Paths to Quality requirements
• Document attendance, child progress, and safety checks according to policy

Team Collaboration & Professional Growth

• Work positively with co-teachers and staff to ensure a supportive team environment
• Attend regular staff meetings and participate in required training (20+ hours annually)
• Actively contribute to continuous improvement and staff development efforts

Key Responsibilities:

The Impact You’ll Make as an Early Head Start Teacher:

• Promote school readiness and lifelong learning for infants and toddlers
• Build trust with families as a supportive educational partner
• Create a safe, nurturing environment where every child can thrive
• Advance Pathfinder’s mission to empower people to live their best lives from the very beginning

What You Bring to the Role:

Skills & Competencies

• Warm, approachable communication style with strong relationship-building skills
• Effective time management, flexibility, and a team-first attitude
• Understanding of child development and commitment to equity
• Ability to maintain confidentiality, professionalism, and ethical standards

What to Expect in This Role:

• Fast-paced, flexible classroom environment with frequent transitions
• 40-hour workweek with occasional home visits outside standard hours
• Daily interaction with children, families, and team members
• Opportunities for professional development and growth within Pathfinder
• Required participation in staff meetings, trainings, and community events

Pathfinder’s mission is to strengthen communities by enabling people with disabilities or economic challenges to achieve autonomy, inclusion, and stability.

Benefits & Pathfinder Perks – We Care About YOU!

Competitive Benefits Package (if applicable):

• Competitive Pay & Paid Training – Earn while you learn with comprehensive training.
• Paid Time Off & Holidays – Maintain a healthy work-life balance with PTO and paid holidays.
• Comprehensive Insurance Coverage – Medical, Dental, and Vision plans to support your well-being.
• Employer-Paid Coverage – Enjoy free Basic Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability (STD), and Long-Term Disability (LTD).
• 403(b) Retirement Plan with Employer Match – Plan for your future with a generous retirement savings plan and employer contributions.
• Tuition Reimbursement – Invest in your future with financial assistance for continued education.
• Professional Development & Training – Enhance your skills and career through learning opportunities.
• Person-Centered Thinking Training – Gain valuable insights into individualized care and service.

Pathfinder Perks:

• Wellness Platform Incentives – Earn rewards for prioritizing your health and well-being.
• Financial Wellness Platform – Access earned wages before payday for added financial flexibility.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Free, confidential support sessions for employees and their immediate household members.
• Free Pathfinder Kids Clinic – Providing childcare for children in the community with minor illnesses.
• Exclusive Discounts – Save with special offers, including:
• Verizon Wireless Discount – Stay connected for less.
• YMCA Discount – Enjoy reduced membership rates for fitness and wellness. 

Pathfinder Values: People First – Integrity - Contribution – Growth – Empowerment

Requirements

Preferred Minimum Qualifications

• A minimum of an infant/toddler CDA or 120 hours specific to infant/toddler development. An associate or bachelor’s degree in early childhood education or a related field.  
• Staff hired with a degree in a related field have four months to complete CDA coursework equivalent to 120 hours of infant/toddler-specific training. 
• At least 21 years of age. 
• Basic language, written, and computer skills necessary for communication and documentation. 
• Demonstrated ability to support people with disabilities. 
• Ability to work a flexible schedule if needed. 
• Valid driver’s license. 
• Ability to speak, hear, and read the English language. 
• Be able to run, squat, stoop/bend, kneel, and climb stairs 
• Be able to lift 50 pounds and push/pull against potential resistance. 
• Be able to implement CPR and First Aid when needed.