Lead Preschool Teacher

Are you passionate about early childhood education and ready to make a lasting impact? St. Elizabeth's Child Development Center, a 5-Star Quality Rated Childcare Center, is seeking a Full-Time Lead Preschool Teacher to join our caring and professional team!

About the Role: We're looking for a nurturing, enthusiastic educator to lead a classroom of children aged 2.5 to 3.5 years old. This position begins at our beloved Portland location, operating out of a charming historic building we've called home for decades.

In January 2026, our Portland center will close, and this position will transition to our brand-new, purpose-built facility in Cape Elizabeth, located at 8 Two Lights Road (on the campus of St. Bartholomew's Church). The new space will include:

• Over 2,500 sq. ft. of indoor gross motor play space
• Classrooms and outdoor playgrounds tailored to each age group
• A bright, modern environment that reflects our commitment to child-centered learning

Why St. Elizabeth's? With nearly 50 years of experience in holistic, play-based early childhood education, we celebrate every child's individuality and foster a nurturing, inclusive environment. Our teachers are the heart of our program, and we deeply value the creativity, care, and commitment they bring each day.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead classroom instruction and curriculum planning
• Foster a safe, engaging, and inclusive learning environment
• Collaborate with fellow educators and supervise support staff as assigned

Compensation & Benefits:

• $2,000 Recruitment & Retention Bonus
  ($250 at hire, $500 at 3 months, $500 at 6 months, $750 at 1 year with satisfactory performance)
• 50% Discounted Childcare for your own children (private pay only)
• Five (5) Weeks of Earned Time in your first year
• Six (6) Paid Agency Holidays
• Comprehensive Medical Plans - choose from 3 options
• Dental & Vision Insurance Options
• 401(k) Agency Contribution
• Employer-Paid Life, Short-Term, and Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Wellness Reimbursement (up to $100/year) + coaching & wellness support
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• ADP LifeMart Employee Discount Program
• Voluntary Accident & Critical Illness Insurance with Health Screening Benefit
• Bereavement Leave

Pay Range: $20.00 - $23.00 per hour, depending on experience and education

Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:15 AM - 4:45 PM

Qualifications:

• Preferred: Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field
• Accepted: Certificate in Child Development
• If not certified, must be willing to pursue certification
• Must maintain CPR/First Aid Certification and complete Maine Early Learning Guidelines Training

Ready to inspire, nurture, and grow with us? Be part of a team that values your voice, your vision, and your dedication to young children. Start with us in Portland and grow with us in Cape Elizabeth!

Resumes will be accepted until the position is filled. This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

You may submit your cover letter and resume (indicating the position title) via our website (www.ccmaine.org) or email (hrdepartment@ccmaine.org), fax (207-344-6617), or mail to Human Resources Office, Catholic Charities Maine P.O. Box 10660, Portland, ME 04104.

Catholic Charities Maine is a United Way and Affirmative Action/EOE/Minorities/Females/Vet/Disabled Employer. Catholic Charities Maine participates in E-Verify. For more information on E-Verify, please go to: https://www.ccmaine.org/employment