Nursery Lead Teacher

Job Title Nursery Lead Teacher Program Little Precious Angels Childcare (LPACC) Reports To Director / Assistant Director / Unit Administration Position Summary The Nursery Lead Teacher is responsible for overseeing the daily operations, care, and instructional practices within the nursery/infant unit. This role ensures a safe, nurturing, developmentally appropriate environment while maintaining compliance with Missouri DESE licensing regulations and accreditation standards.

The Nursery Lead Teacher leads classroom staff, models professionalism, and supports high-quality infant care practices. Required Experience Minimum of 2 years of hands-on experience working in an early childhood education setting Experience working specifically with infants and young toddlers Prior experience in a lead, mentor, or supervisory role is preferred Education & Certification Requirements Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential – Required Infant/Toddler CDA preferred High School Diploma or GED (minimum) Active Missouri Professional Development (MOPD) account Current CPR & First Aid Certification (Infant, Toddler, Adult) Completion of all DESE-required trainings , including but not limited to: Safe Sleep Child Abuse & Neglect Emergency Preparedness Caring for Vulnerable Children Must pass: Comprehensive background screening Family Care Safety Registry (FCSR) Fingerprinting (as required by Missouri) Job Responsibilities Classroom Leadership & Supervision Lead the nursery classroom with consistency, structure, and professionalism Ensure proper staff-to-child ratios are maintained at all times Assign daily classroom duties and support assistant teachers Step in immediately to address classroom needs without waiting for direction Child Care & Development Provide nurturing, responsive care that supports infant development Implement developmentally appropriate routines, activities, and transitions Support children’s social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development Maintain accurate daily documentation for each child Health, Safety & Compliance Enforce safe sleep practices at all times (non-negotiable) Maintain a clean, organized, and hazard-free environment Follow all health, sanitation, and emergency procedures Report safety concerns, incidents, or licensing issues immediately Documentation & Communication Complete daily reports, attendance, incident reports, and required records Communicate professionally and respectfully with families and administration Ensure all child belongings are labeled and properly stored Team Support & Professionalism Model positive behavior, accountability, and leadership for staff Support new staff and trainees in nursery procedures Accept feedback with professionalism and use it for growth Maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all times Personality & Professional Traits Required The ideal Nursery Lead Teacher must demonstrate: Patience, calmness, and emotional stability Strong leadership and decision-making skills Dependability, punctuality, and accountability Clear communication and problem-solving abilities A nurturing, compassionate, and child-centered mindset Ability to work independently without constant supervision Willingness to uphold structure, routines, and expectations consistently Accreditation & Quality Standards Expectations Maintain classroom practices aligned with Missouri Accreditation Standards Support continuous quality improvement initiatives Participate in observations, audits, and professional development Ensure curriculum, environment, and documentation meet accreditation benchmarks Uphold LPACC’s mission, values, and commitment to excellence Physical & Work Requirements Ability to lift, carry, and move infants as needed Ability to sit on the floor, bend, stand, and move throughout the day Maintain alertness and supervision at all times Statement of Commitment Little Precious Angels Childcare is committed to providing a safe, nurturing, and high-quality early learning environment.

The Nursery Lead Teacher plays a critical role in protecting children, supporting families, and leading with integrity and professionalism. Salary $15 - $17 per hour