1

The Early Learning Center Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Be Seen First

The director will manage staff, develop educational programs, and cultivate an environment in which children and their parents can feel safe, valued, and receive a phenomenal education.

Urgent

next page

Showing results 1-20

The Early Learning Center information

See salary details

$9

$19

$31

How much do the early learning center jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for the early learning center in the United States is $19.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $22.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Early Learning Center?

An Early Learning Center is an educational facility that provides care and learning opportunities for young children, typically from infancy through preschool age. These centers focus on promoting cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development through age-appropriate activities and curriculum. They often employ trained educators and staff who create safe, nurturing environments where children can explore and learn. Early Learning Centers also help prepare children for kindergarten by teaching foundational skills such as language, basic math, and social interaction.

What are some common challenges educators face when working at an Early Learning Center, and how can they be addressed?

Educators at Early Learning Centers often encounter challenges such as managing diverse learning needs, balancing administrative tasks with hands-on teaching, and fostering effective communication with families. To address these, many centers provide ongoing professional development, encourage collaborative teamwork, and utilize structured routines to create a supportive environment. Building strong relationships with children and their families also helps educators tailor their approach and ensure each child's needs are met, contributing to a more positive and productive learning experience.

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

AspectThe Early Learning CenterPreschool Teacher
Required CredentialsChild Development Associate (CDA) or equivalent, early childhood education certificationChild Development Associate (CDA) or similar early childhood education certification
Work EnvironmentPreschools, daycare centers, early childhood education settingsPreschools, daycare centers, early childhood education settings
Employer & Industry UsageChildcare providers, early learning programsPreschools, early childhood education institutions
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Early Learning Center and Preschool Teacher roles both focus on early childhood education, often requiring similar certifications and working in comparable environments. The main difference lies in the scope: The Early Learning Center may refer to the organization or facility, while Preschool Teacher specifies the educator role within that setting. Both positions aim to support children's development and prepare them for kindergarten.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Early Childhood Educator at an Early Learning Center, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Early Childhood Educator at an Early Learning Center, you generally need a background in early childhood education, child development, or a related field, often supported by state-specific teaching certifications. Familiarity with curriculum planning software, assessment tools, and classroom management systems is typically required. Patience, creativity, and strong communication skills help educators build positive relationships with children and their families. These skills and qualifications are crucial for fostering a safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environment.
More about The Early Learning Center jobs
What cities are hiring for The Early Learning Center jobs? Cities with the most The Early Learning Center job openings:
Infographic showing various The Early Learning Center job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 32% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,653 per year, or $19.1 per hour.
Early Learning Center Substitute

Early Learning Center Substitute

Pathfinder

Huntington, IN

$13.86 - $16.64/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Description

Company: Pathfinder

Job Title: Early Learning Center (ELC) Substitute

Category: Childcare & Education

Location: Huntington, IN

Job Type: Substitute

Hours: Hours vary - operation hours Mon-Fri 6a-6p

Starting Pay: $13.86-$16.64/hr. (based on education)


Job Summary:

The Early Learning Center (ELC) Substitute at Pathfinder Early Learning Center is responsible for providing developmentally appropriate learning experiences for enrolled children by following classroom lesson plans. This position collaborates with Teachers and Teacher Assistants to implement individualized and multicultural programming while adhering to Indiana Child Care Licensing Guidelines, the NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct and Standards, and Paths to Quality Regulations.


Key Responsibilities:


Educational Execution: Follow and implement lesson plans that align with assessment data and developmentally appropriate practices based on NAEYC, FSSA, and Paths to Quality standards.


Developmental Support: Assist in assessing children's development and share findings as needed.


Physical Care: Ensure responsive physical care in alignment with Indiana Child Care Licensing Guidelines.


Social-Emotional Development: Provide opportunities for social-emotional skill-building using the Conscious Discipline Curriculum.


Team Collaboration: Work cooperatively with coworkers to create a positive and predictable learning environment for children, families, and staff.


Regulatory Compliance: Maintain adherence to Indiana Childcare Licensing Regulations concerning health and safety, classroom environment, positive discipline, and required postings.


Professional Development: Maintain 20 hours of annual training related to Early Childhood Development to enhance skills and knowledge.


Pathfinder's mission is to strengthen communities by enabling people with disabilities or economic challenges to achieve autonomy, inclusion, and stability.


Benefits: (if applicable)

  • Competitive pay and paid training
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Growth opportunities
  • Paid Time Off/ Paid Holidays
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Employer Paid - Basic Life, STD, LTD
  • 403(b) Retirement Plan- Employer match up to 5%


Pathfinder Perks - We Care About YOU:

  • Wellness Platform Incentives available to all employees
  • Employer-Sponsored Financial Benefit through PayActiv
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) - Free Sessions for employees and Immediate household members
  • Free Pathfinder Kids Clinic - provides healthcare for babies, children, and adolescents in the community who have a minor illness.
  • Professional Development Opportunities
  • Person Center Thinking Training
  • Verizon Wireless Discount
  • YMCA Discount


Pathfinder Values:

People First - Integrity - Contribution - Growth - Empowerment



Requirements

Preferred Minimum Qualifications:

  • Minimum of a high school diploma/GED.
  • At least 18 years of age; must be at least 21 years of age to work with infants and toddlers independently.
  • Basic language, written, and computer skills necessary for communication and documentation.
  • Demonstrated ability to support people with disabilities.
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule if needed.
  • Ability to speak, hear, and read the English language.