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Substitute Teacher Jobs in Cook County, IL (NOW HIRING)

Substitute Teacher

New Lenox, IL ยท On-site

$145/day

Substitute/Substitute Teacher Date Posted: 2/9/2026 Location: LASEC Date Available: open District: Lockport Area Special Education Cooperative The substitute teacher is expected to follow the ...

The substitute teacher is expected to follow the classroom teacher's directions when the classroom teacher is unable to attend. The substitute teacher is responsible to make sure that the lessons are ...

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Substitute Teacher information

See Cook County, IL salary details

$19.1K

$42.4K

$69.2K

How much do substitute teacher jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for substitute teacher in Cook County, IL is $42,356.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31,100.00 and $50,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Substitute Teacher Do?

A substitute teacher is a trained, certified, and background-checked education professional who teaches in place of another teacher who is unable to work on a particular day or for a duration of time. Substitutes are often needed in cases of illness, medical leave, or family emergencies. Substitute teachers follow the lesson plan and use supplies, education materials, and teacher-created materials left by the regular teacher. Substitute teachers are tasked with maintaining order and student productivity with as little disruption as possible.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Substitute Teacher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Substitute Teacher, you generally need a bachelor's degree (often in education or a related field), a substitute teaching permit or certification, and a solid understanding of classroom management. Familiarity with digital classroom tools, student information systems, and educational platforms like Google Classroom is often required. Flexibility, strong communication, and the ability to quickly build rapport with students are standout soft skills in this role. These abilities are crucial for maintaining a productive learning environment and ensuring continuity of instruction when the regular teacher is absent.

What are some common challenges substitute teachers face, and how can they effectively manage them?

Substitute teachers often encounter challenges such as unfamiliar classroom environments, varying lesson plans, and managing students they have not met before. To handle these situations effectively, substitutes should arrive early to review lesson materials, establish clear expectations with students at the start of the day, and be flexible in adapting to different teaching styles and classroom routines. Building quick rapport and maintaining clear communication with both students and staff can help ensure a successful and productive day.

What is the difference between Substitute Teacher vs Classroom Teacher?

AspectSubstitute TeacherClassroom Teacher
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some states require substitute teaching certificationBachelor's degree; state certification/license required
Work EnvironmentTemporary, short-term assignments in various classroomsFull-time, ongoing teaching in a specific classroom
Employer & IndustrySchool districts, substitute staffing agenciesSchool districts, private schools

Substitute teachers fill in for classroom teachers on a temporary basis, often with minimal preparation, while classroom teachers have a permanent role with ongoing responsibilities and curriculum planning. Both roles require similar basic credentials, but substitute teachers typically work on short-term assignments, whereas classroom teachers have a continuous presence in their classrooms.

What cities near Cook County, IL are hiring for Substitute Teacher jobs? Cities near Cook County, IL with the most Substitute Teacher job openings:
Infographic showing various Substitute Teacher job openings in Cook County, IL as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, and 42% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,356 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Substitute Teacher

Will County ROE

New Lenox, IL โ€ข On-site

$145/day

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Position Type:
Substitute/Substitute Teacher
Date Posted:
2/9/2026
Location:
LASEC
Date Available:
open
District:
Lockport Area Special Education Cooperative
Job Description:
The substitute teacher is expected to follow the classroom teacher's directions when the classroom teacher is unable to attend. The substitute teacher is responsible to make sure that the lessons are conducted and the teacher assistants are utilized as scheduled by the teacher.
Essential Functions:
The substitute teacher is expected to follow the lesson plans left by the classroom teacher. The substitute teacher must have skills in carrying out the instructions left by the classroom teacher, and the substitute teacher should prepare by reviewing the classroom teacher's plans and notes before the instructional time begins.
The substitute teacher is expected to be in charge of the classroom making sure that the classroom teacher assistants and instructional materials enhance the instructional school day.
The substitute teacher is expected to provide instruction to the students based upon materials and information left by the classroom teacher and input from persons in the classroom who are knowledgeable about the students.
The substitute teacher is expected to work as a professional in the building introducing him/herself to persons who enter the classroom and demonstrating professional conduct regarding confidential information about students and personnel.
Positions Reports to:
โ€ข Building Principal or Program Coordinator
Requirements:
โ€ข Teaching certificate, or
โ€ข Substitute teaching certificate, Type 39
โ€ข Experience in special education preferred.
Pay Rate is $145/day