About the Role
Job Title: Lead Teacher I & II
Location: San Ysidro, CA
Department: Early Childhood Education / Head Start
Reports To: Site Supervisor / Education Manager
Employment Type: Full-Time
About the Opportunity
This is more than just a teaching position—it’s an incredible opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of children and families across our community. For over 60 years, our client's organization has been dedicated to empowering communities, supporting families, and advancing equity through a wide range of programs spanning early childhood education, senior services, and workforce development.
As a Lead Teacher, you’ll play a vital role in preparing young learners for a lifetime of success, helping ensure they thrive socially, emotionally, and academically. If you’re passionate about education and ready to be part of a mission-driven team creating lasting change, we’d love to hear from you!
Position Summary
As a Lead Teacher I or II, you will be responsible for planning, implementing, and supervising a high-quality, developmentally appropriate educational program for preschool-aged children in alignment with Head Start performance standards. You will foster a safe, nurturing, and engaging classroom environment that promotes each child’s growth in all key developmental domains.
Qualifications & Requirements
Education & Credentials
Lead Teacher I:
Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development required
Valid Teacher Permit issued by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CCTC)
3 Infant/Toddler Units preferred (must be completed within one year of hire if not already obtained)
Lead Teacher II:
Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development required
Valid CCTC Teacher Permit
3 Infant/Toddler Units preferred (must be completed within one year of hire if not already obtained)
Additional Requirements
Bilingual (English/Spanish) required, with strong verbal and written communication skills
Valid California Driver’s License
Current Pediatric First Aid and CPR certification
Strong listening, communication, and problem-solving abilities
Team-oriented, dependable, and responsive
Committed to deadlines, punctuality, and follow-through
Maintains confidentiality and adheres to ethical standards
Sensitive to cultural diversity and committed to inclusive service
Ability to quickly assess and adapt to various classroom situations
Benefits
Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and 48 hours of paid sick leave
12 paid holidays, plus bereavement and jury duty leave
100% employer-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance
403(b) retirement plan with 5% employer match (fully vested)
Life and accidental death insurance, with optional supplemental coverage (e.g., pet, disability, cancer)
Access to Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for staff and dependents
Ongoing professional development and growth opportunities
$500 employee referral bonus after 90 days
Discounts on AT&T wireless, entertainment, and more
Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness and credit union membership
Make a Difference. Build a Brighter Future.
Join a legacy of service and empowerment that has positively impacted generations of Californians. If you're committed to early learning, equity, and community-driven change, this position offers a meaningful path to grow your career while making a real difference.
Job Types: Full-time, Contract
Pay: $23.93 - $28.08 per hour