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First Steps Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Sunshine House

First Steps 4K Teacher

Columbia, SC · On-site

$17/hr

First Steps Teacher Responsibilities: What's it like to be a teacher at our school? * Ensure a safe, healthy, and nurturing learning environment. * Create an engaging classroom where children can ...

Sunshine House

First Steps 4K Teacher

Columbia, SC · On-site

$17/hr

First Steps Teacher Responsibilities: What's it like to be a teacher at our school? * Ensure a safe, healthy, and nurturing learning environment. * Create an engaging classroom where children can ...

Sunshine House

First Steps 4K Teacher

Columbia, SC · On-site

$17/hr

First Steps Teacher Responsibilities: What's it like to be a teacher at our school? * Ensure a safe, healthy, and nurturing learning environment. * Create an engaging classroom where children can ...

KinderCare Education

Lead Teacher at Legacy Peak

Peak, SC · On-site

$17.85 - $23.25/hr

Where first steps, new friendships, and confident learners are born. At KinderCare Learning Companies, the first and only early childhood education provider recognized with the Gallup Exceptional ...

Bright Horizons

Child Care Teacher

Columbia, SC · On-site

$17.25 - $21.05/hr

Whether you're nurturing a child's first steps or supporting the systems behind the scenes, your work creates real impact. We're a community that celebrates individuality, invests in your growth, and ...

Bright Horizons

Child Care Teacher

Columbia, SC · On-site

$17.25 - $21.05/hr

Whether you're nurturing a child's first steps or supporting the systems behind the scenes, your work creates real impact. We're a community that celebrates individuality, invests in your growth, and ...

Bright Horizons

Child Care Assistant Teacher

Columbia, SC · On-site

$13.65 - $17.05/hr

Whether you're nurturing a child's first steps or supporting the systems behind the scenes, your work creates real impact. We're a community that celebrates individuality, invests in your growth, and ...

First Watch Restaurants, Inc.

Server

Columbia, SC · On-site

Overview Our YOU FIRST Philosophy In addition to no night shifts, ever and our fully chef-curated ... Steps of Service - our proven method built on the belief that teamwork really does make the dream ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsFirst Steps JobsFirst Steps Jobs in Columbia, SC

First Steps information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$92.1K

$109.5K

$140.2K

How much do first steps jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for first steps in Columbia, SC is $109,474.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $99,500.00 and $114,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is First Steps in a professional context?

First Steps typically refers to the initial actions or foundational activities taken at the beginning of a process, project, or career journey. In a workplace or professional development context, 'First Steps' might involve onboarding, initial training sessions, or introductory tasks designed to help new employees or participants get acclimated and start contributing effectively. These steps are crucial for building confidence, understanding expectations, and setting the stage for future success. Organizations often provide resources and support during this phase to ensure a smooth transition.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a First Steps Early Intervention Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a First Steps Early Intervention Specialist, you need a background in early childhood education, special education, or a related field, often supported by state-specific certification or licensure. Familiarity with Individualized Family Service Plans (IFSPs), developmental screening tools, and case management systems is typically required. Strong interpersonal communication, cultural sensitivity, and collaboration skills help build trust with families and multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure effective support for children's development and family engagement in early intervention programs.

What challenges might I encounter when working in an early childhood education First Steps role, and how can I best prepare for them?

In a 'First Steps' role, which focuses on early childhood education or intervention, you may encounter challenges such as managing diverse developmental needs, engaging families with varying levels of involvement, and adapting to rapidly changing classroom dynamics. Preparation includes developing strong communication skills, staying updated on early childhood best practices, and being flexible in your teaching approach. Building collaborative relationships with families and colleagues is also key to creating a supportive environment for both children and staff.

What is the difference between First Steps vs Child Care Assistant?

AspectFirst StepsChild Care Assistant
Required CredentialsBasic training, certifications vary by stateChild development or early childhood education certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentPreschools, early intervention programs, community centersDaycare centers, preschools, family homes
Employer & Industry UsageEarly childhood programs, government-funded initiativesPrivate daycare centers, preschools, childcare agencies

First Steps roles typically focus on early intervention and developmental support for children, often requiring specific certifications and working in community or government programs. Child Care Assistants generally work in daycare settings, providing daily care and supervision, with a broader range of certifications. Both roles support early childhood development but differ in scope, credentials, and work environments.

What are popular job titles related to First Steps jobs in Columbia, SC?

For First Steps jobs in Columbia, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching First Steps jobs in Columbia, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for First Steps jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for First Steps jobs?

Cities near Columbia, SC with the most First Steps job openings:

First Steps jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Steps job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 90% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,474 per year, or $52.6 per hour.

First Steps 4K Teacher

Aspire Early Learning Academy

Lexington, SC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

First Steps 4K Lead Teacher

Aspire Early Learning Academy – Lexington Academy


Are you passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of young children? Aspire Early Learning Academy – Lexington is seeking a patient, compassionate, and dedicated First Steps 4K Teacher to join our team. The max number of children in this class is 10. Work hours are 8:00 am to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. 


The First Steps 4K Lead Teacher will create a nurturing, engaging, and developmentally appropriate classroom environment where children can learn, grow, and build the skills they need for kindergarten and beyond. The ideal candidate is passionate about early childhood education, understands the importance of play-based learning, and is committed to supporting the physical, social, emotional, and academic development of every child.


Responsibilities

  • Adhere to all South Carolina First Steps 4K Guidelines and program requirements.
  • Follow all Aspire Early Learning Academy policies and procedures.
  • Create and implement weekly lesson plans using a First Steps 4K-approved curriculum.
  • Provide developmentally appropriate, engaging, and play-based learning experiences.
  • Maintain a safe, welcoming, respectful, and inclusive classroom environment.
  • Observe and support each child's individual development, interests, and learning needs.
  • Maintain consistent communication with parents and families regarding children's daily activities, development, and progress.
  • Communicate with families regularly through written communication, face-to-face conversations, and other approved methods.
  • Establish positive relationships with children, families, and fellow team members.
  • Complete daily cleaning and classroom organization routines to maintain a sanitary, healthy, and safe learning environment.
  • Attend all required First Steps 4K and SC DSS training.
  • Complete all required continuing education and professional development hours.
  • Maintain accurate classroom and student documentation as required by the program and Aspire Early Learning Academy.


Required Qualifications

  • Two-year degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field, with demonstrated progress toward completing a four-year degree program.
  • Ability to successfully pass a Child Abuse and Neglect Registry background check and all other required background screenings.
  • Ability to use a variety of computer applications and technology to complete classroom and administrative tasks.
  • Strong communication, organization, and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work collaboratively with families, co-workers, administration, and program partners.
  • Commitment to creating a positive, nurturing, and engaging learning environment for young children.


Preferred Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field.
  • Current CPR and First Aid certification.
  • Previous experience working in a play-based early childhood environment.
  • Experience developing and implementing developmentally appropriate lesson plans.
  • Ability to work creatively, independently, and flexibly in a fast-paced early learning environment.


Why Join Aspire Early Learning Academy?

At Aspire Early Learning Academy, our mission is to develop a community of confident students who love to learn. We are committed to creating a nurturing environment where every child has the opportunity to thrive—and we believe the same should be true for our teachers.

We invest in our team through professional development, training, and opportunities for continued growth.


Company Benefits Include:

  • Paid DSS training — up to 15 hours
  • Weekly direct deposit every Friday
  • Convenient payroll access through a website or mobile app
  • Conference and professional workshop opportunities
  • PTO accumulation — up to 40 hours per year
  • Winter Break Pay — up to 40 hours per year
  • Summer Break Pay — up to 40 hours per year
  • Nights and weekends off
  • Free enrollment for your first child
  • Holiday and seasonal break pay after the 90-day probationary period
  • Company-paid Telehealth, Medical, and Mental Health benefits while employed
  • $25,000 company-paid term life insurance policy while employed
  • Optional Vision, Dental, and Whole Life Insurance
  • Optional 401(k) plan with a 3% employer match after six months of employment


Company benefits are available after successful completion of the 90-day probationary period and are subject to applicable eligibility requirements.


Make a Difference. Build a Future.
If you are passionate about early childhood education and want to help four-year-olds develop the confidence, skills, and love of learning they need to succeed, we want to hear from you!


Apply today to become a First Steps 4K Lead Teacher at Aspire Early Learning Academy – Lexington.