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Location

Des Moines, Iowa

Salary

$16 - $17 / HOUR

Quick overview

The Lead Teacher will design and implement engaging, age-appropriate activities to support the academic and emotional growth of infants. They are responsible for building trusting relationships with children and developing creative lesson plans that include hands-on learning and observations.

Requirements summary

Candidates must have a high school diploma or GED and prior childcare experience. A Child Development Associate (CDA) credential is required, with a preference for those holding or pursuing an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education.

high schoolassociate degreeprofessional certificateObservationCollaborationChildcareLesson planningTrauma-informed careChild developmentClassroom managementEarly childhood educationSocial-emotional developmentPhysical developmentSpecial needs supportChild guidance techniques

Job description

Description Make a Difference Every Day—Join Our Childcare Team!

Not your typical childcare center. At Children & Families of Iowa (CFI), we go beyond traditional care. We provide a holistic environment that includes access to behavioral health therapists, physical and occupational therapy, and innovative learning models—all designed to help children thrive academically and emotionally.

We partner with local colleges specializing in early childhood and education, making this a great opportunity for students seeking flexible hours and hands-on experience while earning an income.

Why You’ll Love Working With Us Generous Paid Time Off

  • 80 hours of vacation after 90 days Up to 480 hours of accrued sick leave 8 paid holidays
  • Comprehensive
  • Benefits
  • Package: Medical, dental, and vision insurance Company-paid life insurance (with optional coverage) Short-term and long-term disability (STD/LTD)
  • Financial &
  • Career
  • Support: 401(k) with company match Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Employee Referral Bonus
  • Eligibility for
  • TEACH,
  • WAGE, and additional bonus eligibility
  • Your
  • Role:
  • Making an
  • Impact
  • As a childcare team member at
  • CFI, you’ll: Design and implement engaging, age-appropriate activities for children - including those with special needs or trauma backgrounds. Build strong, trusting relationships to support each child’s growth and development. Develop creative lesson plans that include field trips, observations, and hands-on learning. Promote children's personal, social-emotional, and physical development using proven child guidance techniques. Be part of a playful, collaborative team where your ideas and creativity are welcomed and encouraged. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, sex, disability, veteran, or other protected status.

Requirements

What We’re Looking For Required: High school diploma or GED, prior childcare experience, and the ability to obtain a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential.

Preferred

An Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education (or currently enrolled). Early Head Start (ages 6 weeks–36 months): CDA with Infant/Toddler coursework—or willingness to complete.

Benefits

  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Medical insurance
  • Paid holidays
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Sick leave
  • Paid time off
  • Short-term disability
  • Long-term disability
  • Life insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Employee referral bonus