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Early Learning Center Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

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Early Learning Center information

See Tennessee salary details

$8

$17

$28

How much do early learning center jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for early learning center in Tennessee is $17.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.51 and $20.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an early learning center?

An Early Learning Center is a facility that provides care and educational programs for young children, typically from infancy through preschool age. These centers focus on fostering children's cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development through structured activities and play-based learning. Early Learning Centers are staffed by trained educators who create a nurturing and safe environment to support children's growth and prepare them for kindergarten and beyond.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an early learning center teacher, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Early Learning Center Teacher, you need a background in early childhood education, knowledge of child development, and often a relevant certification such as a CDA or state teaching license. Familiarity with classroom management systems, curriculum planning tools, and child assessment software is typically required. Patience, creativity, and strong interpersonal communication skills help foster a nurturing and engaging learning environment. These competencies are essential to support children's growth, ensure safety, and promote positive educational outcomes in early childhood settings.

What are the common challenges faced by educators working in an early learning center, and how can they be addressed?

Educators in Early Learning Centers often encounter challenges such as managing diverse learning needs, fostering social-emotional development, and maintaining effective communication with families. Adapting teaching methods to accommodate various developmental stages and backgrounds is crucial, as is creating an inclusive and supportive classroom environment. Regular collaboration with colleagues, ongoing professional development, and open dialogue with parents can help address these challenges and ensure each child's growth and well-being.

What is the difference between Early Learning Center vs Preschool Teacher?

AspectEarly Learning CenterPreschool Teacher
CredentialsChild development certifications, CDA or equivalentEarly childhood education degree or CDA
Work EnvironmentChildcare facilities, daycare centers, early learning programsPreschools, private or public early childhood classrooms
Employer & Industry UsageChildcare providers, early education organizationsPreschool programs, educational institutions
Common Search/ComparisonEarly Learning Center vs Preschool Teacher

While both roles focus on early childhood education, an Early Learning Center typically refers to the facility providing comprehensive care and early education, whereas a Preschool Teacher is a specific role within that setting, responsible for instructing children in preschool-aged programs. The main difference lies in the scope: the Early Learning Center is the environment, and the Preschool Teacher is the professional working within it.

Infographic showing various Early Learning Center job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,990 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

Substitute Teacher, Learning Center, Oak Ridge TN

Emory Valley Center Inc

Oak Ridge, TN • On-site

Part-time

Life, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Emory Valley Center rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description:Substitute Teacher
The Early Learning Center/Little Learning Lab

The Early Learning Center and Little Learning Lab at Emory Valley Center in Oak Ridge, TN, provide a nurturing, inclusive, and stimulating environment where young children of all abilities can grow, explore, and thrive. Designed to support early development through hands-on learning, individualized attention, and evidence-based practices, our programs help build a strong foundation for lifelong success. With passionate, highly trained staff and a focus on both education and social-emotional growth, families can feel confident their children are receiving the highest quality care. Whether you're seeking a supportive preschool, early intervention services, or a safe and engaging place for your child to learn and play, Emory Valley Center is the ideal choice—where every child is valued, and every family is welcomed.

The Emory Valley Center

At the Emory Valley Center in Oak Ridge, TN, everything we do is about the people we support—adults and children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) who deserve the chance to live full, meaningful lives. For over 70 years, we’ve walked alongside these incredible individuals, helping them achieve greater independence, connect with their communities, and reach their personal goals. Whether it’s supporting someone in their first job, helping a child find their voice through therapy, or creating a safe, welcoming home, our team plays a vital role in life-changing moments every day. If you're looking for more than just a job—if you want to be inspired, uplifted, and part of something truly special—we’d love for you to join us.

Responsibilities:

 This is more than just a daycare/childcare job. The substitute staff is responsible for filling in for the Learning Centers classroom staff and assisting with all classroom activities, including creating a developmentally appropriate inclusive classroom atmosphere where each child's abilities are strengthened and needs are met. Staff must know about children from birth to five and the importance of a nurturing and responsive environment to enhance children’s development. The staff member is responsible for ensuring that all program routines comply with Tennessee Department of Human Services (DHS) licensure guidelines and Emory Valley Center (EVC) standards and regulations. 

  • Create a safe and inviting classroom environment that promotes health, hygiene, and learning. You'll support children in their personal hygiene, fostering their independence and social-emotional growth while maintaining a structured atmosphere filled with engaging activities.
  • As an active team member, you will work independently with children to ensure their needs are met, helping them feel secure and valued. Your strong judgment and excellent interpersonal skills will be essential in navigating diverse interactions and supporting our mission of inclusive education.
  • We value respectful relationships with families and are committed to upholding confidentiality. You will play a hands-on role, engaging with children through play and ensuring a clean and tidy classroom.
  • We encourage continuous professional development as we strive to make a positive impact on every child’s life. Come be a part of something meaningful!
Requirements:


  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Preferred experience working with children birth to five.
  • Must complete all state-required training and certifications. 
  • First Aid, CPR, and any required state training.
  • Emory Valley Center orientation.
  • Valid Tennessee driver’s license and good driving record. 


Benefits:

  • Attractive Compensation: Enjoy the flexibility of Pay on Demand (NetSpend) along with benefits package for our part-time employees as well.
  • Paid Time Off: Enjoy generous paid time off along with holiday pay to rejuvenate, ensuring you bring your best self to work each day.
  • A Strong Support System: Our supervisors are genuinely invested in the well-being of both our individuals and you!
  • Job Security: Enjoy peace of mind with a position at a well-established and thriving company that actively encourages internal mobility and career advancement.
  • Learning and Development: We are committed to your growth and equip you with the essential tools and training to build a rewarding career.
  • Wellness & Benefit Program: Life Insurance, Employee Assistance Program, Referral Program, Gym Membership, and more!

If you're eager to create a positive impact in a Substitute position, or if you're simply curious about what Emory Valley Center has to offer, we invite you to apply using the links provided or reach out to HR@evcmail.org.


Emory Valley is an equal opportunity employer. It is the policy of the Center to provide equal employment opportunity to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.

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