NW Education Specialist

Join Our Team at Child Roots NW – 1740 NW Flanders St, Portland, Oregon, 97209

An Education Specialist at Child Roots works Monday through Friday, 8 hours per day, offering pedagogical expertise and management of multiple classrooms and their teachers. This role is ideal for individuals who:

• Value collaborative classroom environments that focus on child‑led learning and inquiry.
• Have a strong understanding of child development and pedagogy theory.
• Are passionate about mentoring young learners and guiding them through social and emotional development.
• Value developing their team’s professional experience and knowledge base.

At Child Roots, we value fair, predictable compensation. Starting wage begins at $22.50/hour and is eligible for an increase based on Steps level:

• Steps 1 - 6 = additional $0.05 per step (between $0.05-0.30 total)
• Steps 7 - 11 = additional $0.10 per step (between $0.40-1.00 total)

And:

• Standardized annual merit‑based raises and annual wage adjustments
• Long‑term commitment bonuses to incentivize teachers to remain with their cohort

2026‑2027 School Year Wage Notice:

• In the 2026‑2027 school year, Child Roots NW will become part of the Preschool for All (PFA) program. At that time, the role of Education Specialist will have wages adjusted to the PFA wage scales:
• Step 10 = $29.42/hour
• Step 9 = $25.01/hour
• Step 7-8.5 = $22.67

Our comprehensive benefits package includes:

• Health & Vision Insurance – majority employer‑paid
• Dental Insurance – majority employer‑paid
• Life Insurance – 100% employer‑paid
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – generous company match
• Paid Time Off – including holidays, a weeklong winter break, and professional development opportunities

• Provide primary care and educational support for a consistent set of classrooms.
• Foster a safe, engaging, and child‑centered learning environment.
• Support the classroom primary teachers to design and implement developmentally appropriate activities.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with families, ensuring clear and supportive communication.
• Participate in ongoing professional development and contribute to a positive workplace culture.

• Be currently enrolled in Oregon’s Central Background Registry (or begin the process and complete it upon receiving confirmation)
• Meet the teacher‑qualification criteria as outlined by the Office of Child Care requirements, which may include:
  • Previous experience in a structured childcare environment.
  • Completion of college‑level courses in early childhood education‑related subjects.
    • Degree in Early Childhood Education (or equivalent) preferred.
  • Complete Oregon’s Safety Set Trainings and required certifications:
    • Pediatric CPR/First Aid Course (hybrid or fully in‑person)
    • Oregon Food Handler’s Card (online course)
    • Introduction to Child Care Health & Safety (online course)
    • Recognizing & Reporting Child Abuse & Neglect (online course)
    • Prevention is Better than Treatment (online course)
    • Safe Sleep for Oregon’s Infants (online course)
• Minimum of 5 years of experience as an ECE educator with expertise with infants and toddlers
• Minimum of 1 year experience in administration and management

At Child Roots, we believe that children are authentic, powerful individuals. Our mission is to guide their social and emotional development and to foster a sense of wonder about the world around them. We know that teaching is more than just meeting physical needs—it is about understanding each child’s unique experience and supporting them on their journey. Our workplace culture emphasizes stability, emotional support, and a collaborative environment where every teacher is seen and appreciated.

Join Our Team! Apply today and become a part of one of Portland’s most inspiring childcare communities.