Provide direct instruction, care, and therapeutic support to children in the Therapeutic Child Care program. Implement trauma-informed practices and targeted interventions aligned with treatment plans to promote positive outcomes for children and families.
Requirements summary
Requires a bachelor's degree in Social Work, Early Childhood Education, or a related field, and at least one year of experience in a structured group care setting. Must possess a valid driver's license and obtain certifications in CPR, First Aid, and Mandatory Child Abuse Reporting.
bachelor degreeprofessional certificateCPRClassroom ManagementInterdisciplinary CollaborationFirst AidSkill BuildingTrauma-informed CareMental Health SupportDirect InstructionStrengths-based ApproachClient-centered Care
Job description
Job DetailsJob Location
Med
Quarter -
Cedar
Rapids,
IA 52403Position
Type:
Full
TimeEducation
Level: 4
Year
DegreeSalary
Range: $39,520.00 - $42,000.00
SalaryJob
Shift: DayMake a Difference Every Day — Become a Therapeutic Childcare Educator with Tanager Are you looking for a role where you can truly change lives? Imagine being the reason a child smiles again, builds self-confidence, or discovers a new dream. As a Therapeutic Childcare Educator at Tanager, you won’t just have a job — you’ll have a purpose. Every interaction you have can shape a child’s future, helping them feel seen, supported, and safe. If you believe in the power of human connection, healing, and growth, this is your chance to help a child discover their potential. About Tanager Since 1879, we’ve been dedicated to supporting children and families in Linn County and as the first children's human services agency in the county, our mission continues to evolve with the needs of our community. Today, we serve over 4,000 children and teens annually through prevention, treatment, and outreach programs. We’re more than a non-profit — we’re a community of caregivers working together to Inspire, Empower, and Heal. Position Overview As a Therapeutic Childcare Educator, you will be working directly with children and their families to provide skill building services addressing their mental health needs, while delivering direct care services that are: Client-centered Strengths-based Professional and compassionate In this role, you will provide direct instruction, care, and support to children enrolled in the Therapeutic Child Care (TCC) program. This role implements developmentally appropriate, trauma-informed practices to create a safe, structured, and nurturing environment. The Educator delivers daily routines and targeted interventions aligned with each child's treatment plan goals to promote positive outcomes for children and families. Working closely with the TCC Supervisor, Clinical Manager, the family, and interdisciplinary team, the Educator integrates therapeutic and educational supports into classroom activities to meet individual needs. Why Choose Tanager? We care for the people who care for our kids.
Full-time employees enjoy:
Comprehensive
Benefits:
Medical, dental, vision, and pet insurance
Financial
Security: Retirement plan, employer-paid life, short & long-term disability
Wellbeing
Benefits
Dental Insurance
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Vision Insurance
Medical Insurance
Paid Time Off (PTO)
Tuition Reimbursement
Retirement Plan
Short-term Disability
Long-term Disability
Pet Insurance
Employer-paid Life Insurance
Compassionate Leave
Weekly Payroll
10 Paid Holidays
Support:
Employee
Assistance
Program (EAP)
Work-Life
Balance: 10 paid holidays,
Compassionate
Leave, generous
PTO policy
Growth
Support: tuition reimbursement and opportunities for advancement
Convenient
Pay: Weekly payroll And most of all — the chance to inspire hope and make a lasting impact QualificationsQualifications Bachelors degree in Social Work, Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Elementary Education, or related field Minimum of one year of experience working with children in a structured classroom or group care setting Any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the knowledge and abilities necessary to perform the work
Required
Special
Qualifications: Current certifications in CPR, First Aid, and Mandatory Child Abuse Reporter Training or become certified within first three months of hire Must possess a valid Driver License and meet the driving requirements of the Agency Ready to Inspire Hope? If you’re passionate about helping youth find their strength, voice, and purpose — Tanager is the place for you. Join a team where your work truly matters and where every day brings a new chance to make a positive impact. Apply today and start changing lives — including your own. Tanager is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
Market context
Therapeutic childcare roles in Iowa
In Iowa, therapeutic childcare educator roles often draw candidates with early childhood, social work, or group care experience, so openings can be competitive when they include structured support services. This role typically requires a bachelor’s degree, one year in a structured group care setting, a valid driver’s license, and CPR, First Aid, and mandatory child abuse reporting certifications. On this platform, the requirements and benefits are AI-summarized from the original posting, helping you review fit faster; if you plan to apply, confirm your certifications and group-care experience align before submitting.
