*Preschool Teacher (Full-Time)*

Qualifications, skills, and all relevant experience needed for this role can be found in the full description below. South Portland, ME | Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM Visit us: www.chickadeedaycare.com

Are you passionate about early childhood education and looking for a place where your love for toddlers is truly valued? Join us at Chickadee, a nature-inspired, play-based center where kindness, creativity, and curiosity guide every aspect of our approach.

We're seeking a nurturing, enthusiastic Teacher to join our team. You'll find not just a job, but a joyful, supportive community where you can grow, laugh, and make a real difference.

*Why Chickadee?*

* A calm, play-based environment where children and teachers thrive * Up to 4 weeks of paid time off per year, including winter, spring, and summer breaks * A close, collaborative team that values respect, creativity, and joy * A place where your voice is heard and your well-being matters * A mission-driven culture that celebrates both child and teacher growth

*Our Mission*

To inspire the spirit of the child, nurturing them through kindness and love to become adults who live with purpose, and pass on kindness to better the world we live in.

*What You'll Do*

* Create and lead developmentally appropriate, play-based activities * Encourage emotional, physical, and social growth * Build close, communicative relationships with families * Track and document daily activities and developmental milestones

*What We're Looking For*

* A warm, patient, and caring personality who genuinely loves working with children * Someone who is committed to meeting each child's individual needs * A creative mind who brings energy and fun to everyday * Physical ability to lift 30 lbs and work at a child's level (sitting, crawling, squatting) * CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)

*Education & Experience*

* BA or AA in Early Childhood Education or related field * CDA credential or equivalent experience welcome * Previous classroom experience is a plus

*Perks & Benefits*

* Paid Winter Break (Christmas-New Year's) * Gifted PTO: 40 hours after 3 months of employment * Accrued PTO: 40 additional hours annually * Paid Summer Break (week of July 4th) * Holiday Bonus (after 12 months, based on center performance) * 6 Paid National Holidays * A culture that celebrates kindness, inclusion, and balance

Chickadee is a nurturing, nature-connected early learning center. We believe care must be safe, loving, and joyful - for children and for the educators who guide them.

Bring your heart. Bring your creativity. Bring your joy.

Apply today and help us grow a generation of kind, curious little humans - starting with you.

Job Types: Full-time, Contract

Pay: $20.00 - $24.00 per hour

Benefits: * 401(k) * Dental insurance * Employee discount * Flexible schedule * Health insurance * Life insurance * Paid time off * Professional development assistance * Tuition reimbursement * Vision insurance

Ability to Commute: * South Portland, ME 04106 (Required)

Ability to Relocate: * South Portland, ME 04106: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person