Teacher Job at Irving Park Early Learning in Chicago

Join Our Team at Irving Park Early Learning Center!

Now Offering a $1,500 Sign-On Bonus*!

Over 25 Years of Excellence in Early Childhood Education!

Since 1999, Irving Park Early Learning Center (IPELC) has been a trusted name in early childhood education. As a family-owned and operated childcare center, we take pride in fostering a supportive, professional, and fun workplace where teachers thrive. Many of our educators have been with us for years—even decades—because we believe in investing in our team and creating a work environment where you feel valued and supported every day.

At IPELC, we prioritize a positive and engaging work culture. Whether it’s staff outings, team-building events, parent activities, our annual block parties, or even a staff boat cruise, we make sure our educators enjoy their work while maintaining a professional environment.

With two neighboring locations in Chicago, we operate as one united team with strong leadership and a shared passion for early childhood education:

IPELC - Whipple (3023 West Montrose) | 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
IPELC - Sacramento (3000 West Montrose) | 7:00 AM - 5:30 PM

*Paid after 3 months of employment

Now Hiring: Lead Teacher

18 Paid Holidays + Additional PTO!

We are looking for an experienced, passionate, and dedicated Lead Teacher to join our team. If you’re looking for stability, professional growth, and a place where your contributions truly matter, IPELC is the place for you!

Why Educators Love Working at IPELC:

• 25+ years of excellence in early childhood education.
• Long-term team members—many of our staff have been with us for years!
• $1,500 Sign-On Bonus after 3 months!
• 18 Paid Holidays throughout the year + additional PTO!
• Work in a supportive, fun, and professional team environment.
• Participate in staff outings, team-building events, and parent engagement activities (like our block parties and boat cruises!).
• Enjoy opportunities for professional growth and development.
• Competitive pay and a consistent schedule you can count on.

Comprehensive benefits, including:

• 401(k) retirement plan
• Health insurance
• Tuition reimbursement
• Professional development assistance
• Employee discounts

This is a full-time, in-person position requiring consistency and punctuality.

Fluency in English (reading, writing, and speaking) is required.

What We’re Looking For in a Lead Teacher:

• A nurturing and patient educator who creates a warm, welcoming, and engaging classroom.
• A strong communicator who can effectively collaborate with staff and parents.
• An adaptable and proactive problem-solver who thrives in a fast-paced environment.
• A leader who can guide assistant teachers and foster teamwork.
• A role model who maintains a professional, polished appearance and adheres to company policies.

Qualifications & Requirements:

• Education: Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Development or a related field.
• Experience: 1 year of experience in a licensed childcare center or educational setting is preferred but not required
• Certifications: Willingness to obtain First Aid, CPR, and Food Handler certifications.
• Compliance: Must pass a background check and provide three written references and a DCFS medical form.

What You’ll Do as a Lead Teacher:

• Implement age-appropriate curriculum that supports social, emotional, and intellectual development.
• Foster a safe, clean, and engaging classroom environment.
• Guide and support assistant teachers to ensure smooth classroom operations.
• Encourage children’s self-regulation and problem-solving skills in a kind and constructive manner.
• Maintain professional communication with parents and staff.
• Keep classroom spaces organized and sanitized, including light cleaning tasks.
• Commit to punctuality and occasional additional hours for parent events, staff meetings, and training.

Join Our IPELC Family!

At IPELC, we don’t just offer a job—we offer a career in a stable, rewarding, and family-oriented environment.

Enjoy 18 paid holidays + additional PTO to support work-life balance!

If you’re an experienced early childhood educator looking for a fulfilling role in a welcoming and professional environment, apply today!

We can’t wait to meet you!