East Gate Kids·Albuquerque, New Mexico
The Floater Teacher supports infant, toddler, and preschool classrooms by assisting lead teachers with routines, transitions, and caregiving. They ensure a safe, clean environment and provide stability for children during teacher breaks or absences.
Early Childhood Floater Teacher Albuquerque, NM | Full-Time$19-$21/hour | 5-Star Center | Reggio-Inspired | Purpose-Driven A Unique Role for a Special Kind of Educator Some educators shine best when every day looks a little different.
If you're adaptable, intuitive, calm under pressure, and energized by variety - the Floater Teacher role at East Gate Kids may be the perfect fit.
This is not a "fill-in" role.
It's a high-trust, high-impact position for educators who can step into any classroom, connect quickly with children and teachers, and help the day flow smoothly - wherever support is needed most.
Why This Role Truly Matters Floaters are the connective tissue of a strong early learning center.
In this role, you will: Support infant, toddler, and preschool classrooms as needs shift Help maintain consistency, safety, and emotional regulation for children Provide stability during transitions, absences, lunch breaks, and busy moments Build relationships across the entire school community Children feel safest when the adults around them are calm, confident, and familiar - and Floaters play a critical role in creating that sense of security.
Who This Role Is Perfect For You may thrive in this role if you: Enjoy variety and movement rather than the same routine every day Adapt quickly to different age groups, teaching styles, and classroom rhythms Are emotionally attuned and able to read a room quickly Feel fulfilled by being helpful, reliable, and trusted Stay grounded and positive in fast-paced environments Take pride in being the person others can count on This Role May Not Be the Best Fit If: You strongly prefer one age group only You need a highly predictable daily routine You feel stressed by changing environments or expectations (We believe clarity creates better matches for everyone.) What You'll Do (Responsibilities) Float between Infant, Toddler, and Preschool classrooms based on daily needs Support Lead and Assistant Teachers with routines, transitions, and activities Engage children in play, learning, and caregiving with warmth and presence Assist with diapering, toileting, handwashing, meals, and rest times as needed Help maintain clean, safe, and inviting classroom environments Step in during teacher breaks, planning time, or absences Model calm behavior guidance and positive social interactions Follow all New Mexico childcare licensing, health, and safety regulations Participate in team meetings, training, and professional development
Required: High School Diploma or GED Experience working with children in a childcare or educational setting Comfort working with multiple age groups (infant-preschool) Strong communication and collaboration skills Physical ability to meet job requirements (lifting up to 30 lbs, movement, standing) CPR/First Aid Certification (or willingness to obtain) Ability to pass all state-required background checks Preferred (but not required): Coursework or interest in Early Childhood Education Interest in the ECECD Scholarship Pathway
Competitive pay: $19-$21/hour based on experience Health, dental, vision, and telehealth coverage after 90 days Up to 80 hours of PTO annually, plus 12+ paid/unpaid holidays Full week off at Christmas and closure for major holidays Free childcare in our highly sought-after 5-Star program ECECD Scholarship support to earn your degree while working Ongoing paid training and professional development Free uniforms and parking A respectful, supportive, purpose-driven team culture Ready to Apply? If you're flexible, caring, and energized by supporting children and teachers across all ages, we'd love to meet you. Apply today and become one of the steady, trusted faces our children rely on. Work Location: In person at East Gate Kids Early Learning Center, Albuquerque, NM.
Candidates must have a high school diploma or GED and experience working with children in an educational setting. CPR/First Aid certification and the ability to pass state-required background checks are required.
Market context
In New Mexico, classroom teacher openings are often shaped by district staffing needs, school calendars, and subject-area shortages, so candidates should expect competition to vary by grade level and certification area. These roles are competitive because districts look for clear licensure alignment, classroom readiness, and experience that matches the posting; on this platform, the job requirements and benefits are AI-summarized from the original job description, which can save you research time. Before applying, confirm the exact New Mexico credential requirements and compare them with the posting details.