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Early Childhood Associate Teacher Jobs in Chicago, IL

CHILDRENS CENTER INC

Early Childhood Teacher

Chicago, IL

$41.60K - $60K/yr

Communicate with parents and update them on their children's activities Qualifications * • For Lead Teacher for 3-5-year-olds: o Bachelor's degree in early childhood education or related field with ...

CHILDRENS CENTER INC

Early Childhood Teacher

Chicago, IL

$41.60K - $60K/yr

For Lead Teacher for 35-year-olds: oBachelors degree in early childhood education or related field with a minimum of 24 hours of Early Childhood Education classes required. oIllinois Professional ...

CHILDRENS CENTER INC

Early Childhood Teacher

Chicago, IL

$41.60K - $60K/yr

Communicate with parents and update them on their children's activities Qualifications * • For Lead Teacher for 3-5-year-olds: o Bachelor's degree in early childhood education or related field with ...

Primrose School

Early Childhood Teacher

Lake Zurich, IL · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Early Childhood Teacher at Primrose School of Long Grove- 3985 N. Old McHenry Road Long Grove, IL 60047 Calling All Passionate Individuals: Become an Early Childhood Teacher! Are you eager to make a ...

Primrose School

Early Childhood Teacher

Lake Zurich, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $20/hr

Early Childhood Teacher at Primrose School of Long Grove- 3985 N. Old McHenry Road Long Grove, IL 60047 Calling All Passionate Individuals: Become an Early Childhood Teacher! Are you eager to make a ...

Kiddy Learning Station

Early Childhood Teacher

Mundelein, IL · On-site

$15 - $20.25/hr

We are seeking a Lead Teacher to join our organization. The ideal candidate will plan and present ... Previous experience in early childhood education, childcare, or a related field. * Knowledge of ...

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How much do early childhood associate teacher jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for early childhood associate teacher in Chicago, IL is $18.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $20.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does an Early Childhood Associate Teacher Do?

The duties and responsibilities of an early childhood associate teacher involve supporting an early childhood teacher in a classroom. You assist the teacher as they prepare the lessons, collect necessary materials, manage educational activities, and work with children. An associate teacher sometimes works with an individual student or group of students who need extra attention or guidance. You may also manage a classroom, communicate with parents, and plan and carry out a development program without direct supervision. Your role depends on the regulations in your state and the type of school in which you work.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Early Childhood Associate Teacher, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Early Childhood Associate Teacher, you need foundational knowledge in child development, early education techniques, and often an associate degree or relevant certification in early childhood education. Familiarity with classroom management systems, lesson planning tools, and basic health and safety protocols is typically required. Patience, strong communication, and creativity are essential soft skills that help build positive relationships with young children and colleagues. These skills and qualifications are vital for fostering a safe, nurturing, and effective learning environment during critical developmental years.

How does an Early Childhood Associate Teacher typically collaborate with lead teachers and support staff in the classroom?

Early Childhood Associate Teachers work closely with lead teachers to support lesson planning, classroom management, and individualized instruction. They often assist with setting up activities, observing and documenting children's progress, and providing feedback to the lead teacher. Collaboration extends to supporting staff such as aides or specialists, ensuring a cohesive, nurturing environment for young learners. Regular team meetings and open communication are common practices to align on curriculum goals and strategies for student development.

What are Early Childhood Associate Teachers?

Early Childhood Associate Teachers are educators who support lead teachers in early childhood education settings, such as preschools or daycare centers. They assist with classroom management, lesson planning, supervising children, and ensuring a safe and nurturing environment for young learners. These professionals often help implement educational activities, observe child development, and communicate with parents and staff. Early Childhood Associate Teachers typically have specialized training or an associate degree in early childhood education. Their role is essential for fostering the social, emotional, and cognitive development of children during their formative years.

What is the difference between Early Childhood Associate Teacher vs Preschool Teacher?

AspectEarly Childhood Associate TeacherPreschool Teacher
Required CredentialsChild Development Associate (CDA) or equivalent, some states require a credentialTypically a CDA, associate degree, or bachelor's degree in early childhood education
Work EnvironmentPreschools, daycare centers, early childhood programsPreschools, private and public early childhood education settings
Employer & Industry UsageUsed interchangeably in many settings, often entry-levelMore common in formal preschool programs, sometimes with higher responsibilities

Both roles focus on early childhood education in similar environments, often requiring comparable credentials like the CDA. The main difference lies in job titles used by employers; 'Preschool Teacher' may imply a higher level of responsibility or formal teaching role, while 'Early Childhood Associate Teacher' is often an entry-level position. Understanding these distinctions can help job seekers target the right opportunities in early childhood education.

More about Early Childhood Associate Teacher jobs
What are popular job titles related to Early Childhood Associate Teacher jobs in Chicago, IL? For Early Childhood Associate Teacher jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Early Childhood Associate Teacher jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Early Childhood Associate Teacher jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Early Childhood Associate Teacher jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Early Childhood Associate Teacher job openings:
Early Childhood Associate Teacher jobs near you

Early Childhood Teacher

CHILDRENS CENTER INC

Chicago, IL

$41.60K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Benefits/Perks
  • Competitive Compensations
  • Career Advancement Opportunities
  • Great Work Environment
Job Summary
We are seeking an experienced and energetic Child Development Teacher to join our team! You will be responsible for encouraging children’s intellectual, psychological, and physical growth. The ideal candidate is nurturing, patient, and creative. If you have a passion for helping children learn and reach their potential, we want to hear from you!

Responsibilities 
  • Plan games and activities that are developmentally appropriate
  • Design a daily and weekly schedule
  • Provide basic care and caregiving activities
  • Evaluate children to ensure they are reaching developmental milestones
  • Communicate with parents and update them on their children’s activities
Qualifications
  • • For Lead Teacher for 3–5-year-olds:
    o Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education or related field with a minimum of 24 hours of Early Childhood Education classes required.
    o Illinois Professional Educators License (PEL) required.
    o Gateways Early Childhood Education Level 5 Credential required.
    • For Lead Teacher for 0–3-year-olds:
    o Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or related field with a minimum of 24 hours of Early Childhood Education classes required.
    o Gateways Early Childhood Education Level 5 and Infant Toddler Credential Level 5 credentials required.
    • A minimum of two years of teaching experience in an early childhood group setting required. Successful participation in the Teach for America Program may satisfy this requirement.
    • Demonstrates mastery of basic child development knowledge.
    • Must be proficient in speaking, reading, and writing in the English language.
    Additionally, proficient speaking, reading, and writing in a second language may be required based on program assignment. May be required to have English Language Learners endorsement.
    • Demonstrates effective written and oral communication skills to convey information clearly and informatively to parents and staff.
    • Demonstrates ability to work effectively in a team- orientated, collaborative environment and builds positive relationships with children, staff, and parents.
    • Demonstrates initiative, consistent follow-through, and the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
    • Demonstrates excellent organizational skills.
    • Demonstrates attention to detail.
    • Demonstrates flexibility, resourcefulness, and problem-solving ability.
  • • Demonstrates intermediate computer skills, including Microsoft Office and Outlook, and develops competency with applicable web-based systems used by the program within the first 90 days of employment.
    • Demonstrates respect and acceptance of diverse individuals and communities served by, working in partnership with, or employed by Children’s Center Inc. including but not limited to race, gender, ethnicity, and social-economic status.