Boone County, Missouri government seal

JOB OPPORTUNITY #: 45-006
CHILDCARE LEAD TEACHER
CHILDCARE CENTER

POSTED: 08/17/26

Responsibilities:

The Lead Teacher is responsible for the overall care, supervision, and development of children ages 6 weeks to 5 years. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, planning and implementing developmentally appropriate curriculum; assessing and documenting children's development; maintaining a safe, nurturing, and engaging classroom; communicating with families and staff; ensuring compliance with licensing requirements and program standards; and maintaining consistent daily routines.

Status: 

Full-time, non-exempt, benefited

Working hours: 

40 hours per week. Shifts vary within center hours of 5:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m., 7 days per week including holidays. Must be able to work any shifts as needed to support center operations and staffing requirements.

Location:

Columbia, Missouri

Qualifications: 

High school diploma or GED and be at least 18 years old, in accordance with applicable state or licensing regulations.
Two or more years of experience working with children under 5 years of age in a childcare or educational setting.
Current CPR and First Aid certification or be willing to obtain it within a designated time frame.
Must pass a background check and medical examination as required by applicable licensing regulations, federal, state, and Boone County policies.
Must maintain employment eligibility by meeting all state licensing, certification, background check, and training requirements.
An advanced understanding of early childhood development and developmentally appropriate practices, along with strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Preferred Skills: 

Associate degree in Early Childhood/Child Development, CDA, or 3+ years of relevant experience in a licensed childcare setting. Knowledge of early learning standards & experience supporting varying developmental needs. Proficiency with digital tools for documentation & communication. Commitment to inclusive practices & ongoing professional development.

Starting Hourly Pay Rate: 

Starting from $19.15 per hour, commensurate with experience. Potential for shift differential.

Deadline for Application: 

Applications will be accepted until the posting is removed.

Apply Now

Apply by clicking the link above or by visiting our website at https://www.boonemo.gov/hr/ . Call (573) 886-4395 if you have questions. Please contact us in advance if an accommodation is needed in order to apply.

The Apply Now link above will take you to our online application system where you can create a user profile or log into a profile you have previously created. You must have a user profile to apply for any county position.

Benefit-eligible employees receive paid vacation, 14 paid holidays, enrollment in the County Employees Retirement Fund, and two matching deferred compensation plans. Other benefits include 100% County paid or low-cost employee health insurance premium options, 100% County paid employee dental premiums, subsidized dependent premiums, and County paid long-term disability and life insurance.

An Equal Opportunity Employer