Lead Preschool Teacher in Portland, Oregon at Native American Youth And Family Center

NAYA Family Center is seeking a passionate and experienced Lead Preschool Teacher to foster the growth, development, and school readiness of preschool-aged children. You will plan and implement developmentally and culturally appropriate curriculum, support children’s social-emotional, cognitive, and physical development, and partner closely with families to create a nurturing and inclusive classroom environment. This role ensures compliance with Preschool for All Performance Standards, USDA guidelines, state licensing regulations, and agency policies.

NAYA offers an exceptional benefits package, including free medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees (with affordable options for family members), a 401(k) retirement plan with a 6% match, paid vacation, and 16 paid holidays. This is a full-time position between the working hours of 7am - 6pm Monday through Thursday, that may include evenings and occasional weekends as needed.

The pay rate for this position starts at $25/hour.

Who You Are

• You have lived or professional experience working with diverse populations, particularly within Native American communities.
• You are skilled in child development, positive discipline, and developmentally appropriate practices.
• You have several years of experience working with preschool-aged children in a classroom setting, including observing and documenting development and implementing curriculum.
• You have experience with state childcare licensing guidelines.
• You practice good judgment in problem-solving and crisis management, maintaining composure in high-pressure situations.
• You thrive in a team-oriented workplace, are adaptable, and are willing to roll up your sleeves and pitch in, even when it’s not your job.
• You connect with with children and their guardians in ways that motivate better outcomes while demonstrating patience, empathy, and accountability.
• You possess strong communication skills, engaging effectively with diverse groups and adapting to varied contexts.
• You demonstrate self-awareness, listening deeply, centering others, and taking accountability for your actions.
• You are consistently punctual, reliable, and dependable in support of your team and clients.
• You have Step Level 7 through the Oregon Registry Online (ORO) and a bachelor’s degree in a related field or CDA Preschool Credential preferred
• You are certified (or able to certify) in CPR, First Aid, and AED, and hold a Food Handler’s Card for Childcare
• You are registered with the Central Background Registry (CBR) and understand the importance of maintaining child and family confidentiality

What You'll Do

• Work directly with preschool-aged children throughout the day, supporting social-emotional growth, independence, and school readiness
• Assist in implementing developmentally and culturally appropriate lessons and activities designed by the lead teacher or curriculum plan
• Maintain a safe, healthy, and welcoming classroom environment, following all health, safety, and nutrition standards
• Support children during meals, nap times, toileting, play, and transitions between activities
• Observe, document, and share children’s development and daily progress with the teaching team
• Build positive relationships with families through daily communication and involvement in classroom activities
• Collaborate with classroom staff, aides, specialists, and volunteers to ensure smooth daily routines
• Prepare and organize classroom materials, cleaning, and supplies to support lessons and activities
• Participate in trainings, staff meetings, and professional development to enhance classroom practice
• Follow emergency procedures, administer First Aid/CPR as needed, and maintain a safe environment
• Contribute to a positive, inclusive, and culturally responsive classroom community

Application Instructions Providing a cover letter helps us best understand your interest in the role, so we encourage you to submit one along with your resume. If you need accommodation during the application process, please email jobs@nayapdx.org.

Questions? Want to chat about this role before you decide to apply? Contact Brandi Starbird, Early Childhood Program Manager or HR at jobs@nayapdx.org.