Childcare Associate

Description

Are you ready to inspire, lead, and grow? Easterseals Iowa is looking for high-energy Childcare Associates and Lead Teachers to join our incredible Child Development Center! This isn't just a job—it’s a chance to be part of a mission-driven team that celebrates independence and community every single day!

Why You’ll Love Working With Us:

• Grow Your Career: Gain leadership experience in a supportive, vibrant environment.
• Tangible Impact: You will be the bridge to success for children, helping them reach their full potential.
• Amazing Perks: From generous PTO to massive bonus opportunities, we invest in the people who invest in our kids!

Your Role in the Classroom:

As a vital part of our team, you will:

• Spark Creativity: Assist in planning and implementing exciting daily classroom activities and learning centers.
• Step Up as a Leader: Take the lead in the classroom when needed to ensure our high standards of care never miss a beat.
• Ensure Safety & Joy: Maintain a safe, clean, and organized space where every child's well-being is the top priority.
• Be a Mentor: Build positive relationships with children, parents, and co-workers as a champion for our mission.
• Keep Growing: Dive into professional development and learn specialized skills for early childhood and special education.

Flexible Shifts to Fit Your Life:

Full-time, Monday-Friday opening working in the 4/5 year olds available 

• An Unbeatable Benefits Package!

We take care of our team so you can take care of our clients. Full-time members enjoy:

• Health & Vision Insurance to keep you at your best.
• 403B Retirement Plan to help you plan for the future.
• Generous PTO because we value your work-life balance.

Incredible Financial Incentives:

• WAGE$ Program: Qualify for additional bonuses up to $11,500 a year through the Iowa Association for the Education of Young Children!  More information here: WAGE$ - Iowa Association for the Education of Young ChildrenIowa Association for the Education of Young Children 
• Reduced Childcare: Full-time classroom staff qualify for the CCA Child Care Workforce Program, offering significantly reduced rates for your own children’s care! Eligibility Requirements Required by the Law:

To qualify, a parent or guardian must:

• Work at a licensed child care center, registered child development home, or child care home in Iowa, AND the program must have a CCA agreement with HHS
• Work at least 32 hours per week in a role that directly cares for children
• If serving as a director or administrator, be counted regularly in the child-to-staff ratio
• Not be the owner of the child care program their child attends

Ready to start your journey with Easterseals Iowa? Apply today and help us build a world where everyone is 100% included and 100% empowered!

Requirements

 Knowledge, Skills and Experience Requirements:

• Associates degree in family services, education, child development or other related fields or equivalent relevant experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Previous experience working with children preferred.
• Previous experience working with persons who have disabilities or other special needs preferred.
• Certification in CPR (Adult, Child and Infant), First Aid or ability to receive certification during first 90 days
• Ability to successfully complete Mandatory Reporter of Child and Dependent Adult Abuse within first 30 days
• Ability to pass Relational training.
• Ability to obtain Lifeguard Certificate within 6 months of hire as needed
• Ability to effectively solve problems and handle emergencies.
• Ability to relate to a diverse group of children and their families.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to move independently around a camp environment.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule (i.e. some mornings, some afternoons, etc.)
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds up to 20 times per day.
• Access to reliable transportation for regular participation at work