Early Head Start Teacher in Training

Overview

Pay Rate: $15.00/hour

Early Head Start Locations: Austin, Kids of the Neighborhood, La Armada, Los Pequenos, Navarro, Stepping Stone

At Upbring, our team is united by a shared mission: to break the cycle of child abuse and advance the wellbeing of children, families and communities, empowering them to thrive. As servant-leaders, we lead by example, working passionately to create a brighter future for those we serve.  Every day, we strive to embody our core values: 

• We are Warriors: Fierce, resilient, and courageous, we face challenges head-on with unwavering loyalty and passion. 
• We are Servants: We dedicate ourselves to serving others, empowering those around us to thrive. 
• We are Family: We work together as a supportive, caring community, creating a sense of belonging and strength. 

Joining Upbring means becoming part of a family of passionate individuals who are fearless in their pursuit of lasting change. Together, we are making a difference, one life at a time. 

Your Mission in Action

The Early Head Start Teacher in Training program is designed to provide hands-on experience and professional development for individuals pursuing a career in early childhood education. Under the guidance of experienced mentors, trainees will support classroom activities, implement developmentally appropriate learning experiences, and assist in fostering a safe and nurturing environment for infants and toddlers. Participants will receive training in Head Start Performance Standards, child development principles, and best practices in early childhood education, preparing them for a teacher role upon successful completion of the program. 

Responsibilities

• Actively supervise children indoors and outdoors to ensure their well-being and security 

• Administer developmental screenings, assessments, and evaluations to create individualized learning plans 

• Plan and implement activities that align with IEPs, disabilities, curriculum, and performance standards 

• Build supportive, respectful, and communicative relationships with children while promoting positive behavior and guidance 

• Complete required coursework (CDA) per supervisor’s schedule and attend professional development 

• Follow all licensing, Head Start Program Performance Standards, and organizational policies 

• Maintain up-to-date records, communicate regularly with parents, and document child progress 

• Address behavior concerns, implement preventive measures and support classroom management 

• Work closely with the Education Coach, teachers, and staff to support program goals 

• Conduct parent-teacher conferences, home visits, and build strong relationships with families and the community 

• Other duties and projects assigned 

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements for an Early Head Start Teacher in Training

• High School diploma or equivalent
• Three months experience working in a childcare setting
• Eligible to enroll in a Child Development Associate (CDA) Infant/Toddler credential program and complete it within six months of beginning the training program 
• Willing to obtain CPR and first aid certification 
• Willing to obtain COR Advantage Assessment certification 

Preferred Requirements for an Early Head Start Teacher in Training

• Enrolled in an associate or baccalaureate degree program leading to a degree in child development/early childhood education 
• Knowledge of early childhood best practices and Head Start standards 
• One (1) year experience working in a childcare setting
• CPR/First Aid Certification

Travel

• This position may be required to travel up to 10%

Perks at Upbring 

• Competitive PTO & paid holidays 
• Health, dental, vision insurance & more  
• 403(b) Plan
• Employee Assistance Program 
• Discounted Gym Memberships  

Physical Demands & Work Conditions

• Ability to stand, walk, sit on the floor, and move quickly to ensure child safety
• Lift and carry infants/toddlers (up to 50 lbs.) and classroom material 
• Frequent bending, crouching, and kneeling to interact with children 
• Assists with tasks like feeding, diapering, and hygiene routines 
• Participate in play and activities in varying environments 
• Completion of CDA modules online at a minimum of four (4) hours each week 

The physical requirements for this position with or without reasonable accommodation are representative of those that must be met by an employee to perform the essential functions of this position successfully. While performing this position the employee with or without reasonable accommodation should have the ability to walk, stand, sit, kneel, speak, and hear with aid, see, read, reach with arms and hands, lift and/or move up to specified weight, and use equipment that is essential to performing the job, such as a computer, copier, fax machine, telephone, and automobile, if applicable. Specific vision requirements of this position may include color vision, seeing things close up, and the ability to adjust focus.

Upbring is an Equal Employment Opportunity/AA Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ancestry, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, pregnancy, marital status, national origin, genetic information, physical or mental disability, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.