Preschool Lead Teacher

Job Details

Job Details Level: Experienced

Job Location:

Ballard Community Center
- Seattle, WA 98107

Position Type:
Full Time Salary Range: $28.00 - $35.00 Hourly

Job Location – Ballard Community Center
- Seattle, WA

Position Type – Full-time

Start:
Summer 2026

Starting Salary - $/hr.(Employee may start at $32.00/hr upon verification of Seattle Preschool Program (SPP) education qualifications listed below)

Full range - $28.00 - $35.00/hr.(Employee may earn up to $35.00/hr with continued employment.)

* The Seattle Preschool Program is funded by the Department of Education and Early Learning (DEEL).

Full-time position, up to 40 hours per week. The typical daily schedule is 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, with adjustments based on program needs, including SPPrequired planning time, trainings, and team meetings.

• Design and implement high-quality, developmentally appropriate curriculum aligned with DCYF WACs and SPP contract mandates
• Lead classroom operations, ensuring a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment for children ages 3–5
• Mentor and guide assistant teachers and support staff to maintain effective classroom management and program quality
• Engage and communicate regularly with families, staff, and community partners to support child development and program success
• Maintain a staff-to-child ratio of 1:10 to ensure the safety, supervision, and well-being of all children
• Report directly to the Licensed Preschool Director for guidance and support

Seattle Preschool Programs (SPP) requires a bachelor’s degree or higher, verified as “approved” in MERIT in:

• Early Childhood Education (ECE) or a related field
• OR
• A bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college, verified as "approved" in MERIT, AND
• At least 30 approved ECE quarter credits verified through MERIT (up to 10 of these may be ECE-School Age hybrid credits)

* If you do not meet the educational requirements for this position but are committed to obtaining the required credentials, we encourage you to apply. We are open to supporting candidates who are willing to enter into an education plan to complete the necessary qualifications within 4 years of employment in the classroom.

• At least 2years of experience working with children ages 3-5 in a preschool setting
• 2 years of experience supporting and implementing curriculum activities for a large group of children
• Experience supervising and directing children during programming is preferred

DCYF Preservice Requirements and General Staff Qualifications

• 100% Employer-paid Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
• 401(k) with 5% match
• Paid time off (PTO) including 12 paid holidays and a floating holiday
• Flexible Spending Account
• Life insurance