The Substitute Teacher supports classroom staff by maintaining a safe and engaging learning environment for children aged 6 weeks to 5 years. Responsibilities include facilitating developmentally appropriate curriculum and ensuring continuity of care across various classrooms.
Requirements summary
Candidates must be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or equivalent. EEC certification, CPR/AED/First Aid certification, and at least 6 months of experience with young children are preferred.
JCC Greater Boston, a nonprofit organization committed to creating a vibrant and inclusive community, is seeking a Substitute Teacher (As-Needed/On-Call) to join our team. Work and schedule will vary depending on organizational needs and staff coverage requirements. Hourly rate is $18.00-$21.50. The salary offered will ultimately be determined by the scope of the position, the candidate’s relevant experience, and internal equity. EEC certification is preferred Under the direction of ELC Directors, the Substitute Teacher supports classroom staff by assisting in various classrooms as needed, ensuring continuity of care, and maintaining a safe and engaging learning environment for children ages 6 weeks -5 years old. The Substitute Teacher assists with facilitation of developmentally appropriate early childhood curriculum and collaborates with co-teacher(s) and staff. RESPONSIBILITIES & DUTIES List of essential functions of the job and correlating primary duties to be performed in the role . Primary responsibilities include, and are not limited to: Support implementation of classroom goals:
Create a safe and nurturing environment where children can play, learn and take risks.
In partnership with Early Learning Center Directors and peers, facilitate a collaborative, dynamic, positive, and innovative classroom culture.
Engage and monitor children in daily routines, play, hygiene and learning experiences.
Step into any classroom (toddler, or preschool) to maintain ratios and support transitions.
Communicate effectively with teaching teams and report any concerns to the Director/s.
Assist with classroom setup, cleanup, and maintenance of material.
Monitor and maintain the health, safety and security of all children in classroom. Follow all safety and health guidelines.
Direct parent communication to supervising teacher in a polite and professional manner.
Adhere to all EEC regulations and/or guidelines as defined by Director/s. Support each child’s individual needs, as required:
Facilitate and assist the child’s physical, social, emotional needs.
Assist each child in the verbalization of feelings and emotions. Standard Staff Expectations : Standard staff expectations include and are not limited to:
Demonstrate a love of children and a strong desire to make a difference every day.
Actively create a welcoming dynamic that contributes to an environment where each individual is valued, seen, and respected.
Support JCC Greater Boston’s mission, vision, and values including through personal role modeling.
Perform other duties as required by the organization. Education and Experience:
Candidate must be at least 18 years of age.
Must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
Massachusetts EEC teacher certification preferred, but not required.
6 months + experience working with young children preferred.
CPR/AED and First Aid certification preferred.
Strong organizational skills, including teamwork, relationship-building skills, the ability to multitask, and manage situations effectively and diplomatically
Excellent oral communication skills
Ability and commitment to build strong relationships with children and co-workers
Commitment to create and foster a dynamic environment where play and learning are a top priority
Ability to use phone and payment software to enter hours and troubleshoot, as needed.
Demonstrates excellent time management skills
Demonstrates the ability to adapt to evolving needs and circumstances.
Must be a self-starter who takes the initiative.
Demonstrates a history of superb interpersonal and active listening skills
Must have a record of successfully working well independently and with others, building/sustaining collaborative working relationships. Physical Requirements:
Able to work well in person in a busy, dynamic, and sometimes noisy environment involving multiple tasks and priorities
Able to lift and carry objects weighing up to 30 pounds (boxes of supplies, children’s backpacks etc.) Occasional need to lift or carry a young child, as needed.
Able to sit and kneel; getting down at eye level with children regularly
This position requires in person presence on the Newton Campus
Ability to work outdoors daily in a variety of weather conditions. ADA Statement: Individuals must possess these criteria for knowledge, skills and abilities or be able to explain and demonstrate that the individual can perform the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation and using some other combination of skills and abilities.
Market context
Substitute teaching in Massachusetts
Massachusetts substitute teacher roles often see steady demand as districts look to cover daily absences and maintain classroom continuity. Competition can be strong because schools may prioritize candidates with classroom experience, flexibility, and familiarity with local procedures; on this platform, job requirements and benefits are AI-summarized from the original job description, helping candidates save research time. If you are considering applying, confirm the assignment type, grade levels, and any district-specific onboarding steps before submitting.
