Lead Toddler Teacher

Toddler Lead Teacher

For Educators Who Love Big Feelings, Busy Hands, and Little Discoveries

Albuquerque, NM | 5-Star Center | Reggio-Inspired | Full-Time | Pay: $19 – $25 per hour

Some Teachers Just Get It.

They know that a toddler pouring water from one cup to another is a scientist at work. That "Me do it!" is the sound of independence growing. That a meltdown is a moment to teach, not a problem to manage.

They also know that a toddler room runs on thoughtful planning, steady routines, and a teacher who can see the whole room at once.

If this sounds like you, we would love to meet you.

A Place Where Curiosity Leads the Way

East Mountain is a brand-new, 5-Star, Reggio-inspired early learning center from the team behind East Gate Kids, where toddlers are viewed as capable, competent, and endlessly curious. Our classrooms are designed for movement, sensory exploration, language, and discovery.

We're opening soon and hiring our founding team: the educators who will set up our classrooms, shape our culture, and welcome our very first families. If you've ever wanted a hand in building a program from the ground up, this is that opportunity.

We believe in getting on the floor, following children's interests, and giving toddlers real chances to try things for themselves. We also believe great teaching is intentional. Observation, documentation, reflection, and strong family partnerships help us understand each child and support their development.

The Educators Who Thrive Here

You are patient, playful, and organized. You can turn a toddler's fascination with puddles, trucks, or bugs into a week of meaningful learning, and you keep your cool when the whole room needs you at once.

As the Lead Toddler Teacher, you will own your classroom's curriculum, environment, and culture. You'll plan engaging, developmentally appropriate experiences aligned with the New Mexico Early Learning Guidelines and the Reggio Emilia approach, with a focus on language, independence, self-regulation, and sensory and nature-based exploration. You'll guide toileting and self-help routines in partnership with families, document learning through observations, lesson plans, and portfolios, and communicate with families through daily updates and conferences. You'll also lead and mentor your assistant teacher and keep your classroom in full compliance with licensing, FOCUS, and East Mountain policies.

You also believe there is always more to learn. You welcome coaching, value professional development, and stay curious about research and best practices.

Qualifications

Required:

• Professional experience leading in an early childhood classroom (toddler experience strongly preferred)
• Knowledge of child development and play-based learning
• Classroom management and planning skills
• Ability to lead and mentor a classroom team
• Ability to meet New Mexico childcare licensing requirements and pass all required background checks
• CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain it)

Preferred:

• A CDA, AA, or BA in Early Childhood Education, or actively pursuing one through the ECECD Scholarship or a similar program

A Place to Grow Your Career

We believe exceptional educators deserve to be supported, challenged, and inspired. At East Mountain, we invest in ongoing professional development, mentorship, training, and opportunities to advance your education through New Mexico ECECD programs.

What We Offer

• Competitive compensation based on education, experience, and position
• Health, dental, vision, and telehealth coverage
• Free childcare in our highly sought-after 5-Star program
• PTO and holiday closures
• Ongoing professional development and training
• ECECD Scholarship support for continued education
• Opportunities for professional and leadership growth
• A collaborative, respectful, purpose-driven team culture

We'd Love to Meet You

If you believe toddlers deserve patience, respect, and room to explore, and you're ready to lead a classroom built on play and relationships, East Mountain may be the place you've been looking for. Come help us build it from day one.

Apply today and help little learners discover how big their world can be.