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: $16.65-$21.95/hr based on education
Job Summary:
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.
Responsibilities
The Early Head Start Teacher is responsible for providing a safe and nurturing environment for young children. They will implement educational activities that promote the development of children in their care.
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