Educator OPT B; Science

Location:

Grafton, IL 62037
• Job

Requisition  
• Opening Date:
May 19, 2026
• Closing Date:
June 3, 2026 at 11:59 PM
• Agency:
Department of Juvenile Justice
• Class

Title:

EDUCATOR – 13100
• Salary: $6,044/month (full range $6,044–$10,645/month)

The Department of Juvenile Justice is seeking a motivated and passionate educator to teach science to students and support their academic and behavioral growth. The ideal candidate will instruct in the assigned curriculum area, develop curricula and assessment tools, set student goals, implement behavioral strategies, and work collaboratively with principals, teachers, administrators, and counselors. Candidates should have experience preparing and executing diagnostic tests, evaluating student progress, and maximizing student potential.

• Administers classroom and individual instruction to youth in the assigned subject area(s) under general supervision.
• Develops curricula for each assigned teaching subject in accordance with Core Curriculum policy.
• Designs examination tools to measure students’ strengths, weaknesses, and progress.
• Prepares and maintains detailed records of attendance, achievement, and individual progress and needs.
• Directs students in recreational, social, or other extracurricular activities.
• Attends and participates in discussions and planning at teachers’ meetings, including counselor-teacher meetings, team meetings, and staff development sessions.

• Possession of a current and valid Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) Professional Educator License (PEL) with Secondary Education, Grades 9‑12, in Biology.

• At least two (2) years of experience teaching students a minimum of two grade levels behind in the area of Science.
• At least two (2) years of experience developing Science curriculum aligned to Illinois State Standards or Common Core.
• At least one (1) year of developing and delivering Science‑specific lesson plans covering earth, space, biological, and chemical sciences.
• At least two (2) years of experience with Microsoft Office, Google Applications, or equivalent computer software tools.
• At least two (2) years using online learning to teach Science to middle and high school students.
• At least two (2) years attending professional development in the specific area of teaching Science.
• At least two (2) years developing and implementing age‑appropriately effective classroom‑management techniques for a middle and/or high school Science classroom.
• Ability to demonstrate patience and tolerance with a wide range of behavior.

• Ability to pass an IDOC/IDJJ background check.
• Ability to pass a drug screen; unauthorized drug use is prohibited.
• Ability to travel as required, with overnight stays as appropriate; a valid driver’s license is required.
• Ability to attend seminars, conferences, and trainings to stay current on methods, tools, and relevant industry topics.
• Authorized to work in the United States on a full‑time basis.

The Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice (IDJJ) works to build youth skills and strengthen families by promoting community safety and positive youth outcomes. Over 900 staff members across security, programming, education, mental health, and more collaborate to provide developmentally focused services to approximately 150 youth in the state’s five facilities. IDJJ also supports an after‑care program responsible for around 500 youth in Illinois communities.