Infant/Toddler Teacher

Make a difference from day one

Southwest Human Development is Arizona’s largest nonprofit dedicated to early childhood development. The first five years of life are the most critical in a child’s development. At Southwest Human Development, our services improve lives and help families by supporting young children and their caregivers during this important time.

Your skills, experience, and passion are needed at one of the nation’s largest nonprofits dedicated to early childhood development. Join our team and experience a long-term career which brings joy and satisfaction in knowing you make a difference. We offer over 40 programs and services to more than 140,000 children.

Why candidates love working here

• Contribute to meaningful work that helps children and families build strong foundations for the future.
• Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, generous paid time off, and 401(k) employer contribution every paycheck.
• Build your future with access to learning, development, and career advancement opportunities.
• Be part of a collaborative, purpose-driven culture where your work truly matters.
• Join a Great Place to Work® Certified organization, with a culture shaped by employee feedback and built on trust, support, and collaboration.

Job title: Infant/Toddler Teacher

As an Early Head Start Teacher, you will provide responsive, high-quality care and education that promotes school readiness while partnering with families to support each child's unique developmental journey.

SWHD provides teachers with fully stocked classrooms and all the materials needed to successfully implement the curriculum. We ensure that employees have ample professional development opportunities integrated into their regular work hours.

What you’ll do:

• Implement instruction of children in activities designed to promote intellectual and creative growth.
• Create a fun and safe learning environment, along with promoting early education and literacy.
• Create lesson plans and adapt available teaching methods to meet the interests and needs of the children.
• Develop schedules and routines to ensure adequate physical activity, rest, and playtime.
• Establish and maintain positive relationships with students and parents.
• Communicate with parents on the growth and progress of their students or children.
• Maintain the health and safety of all students.
• Maintain accurate and complete records as required by the State of Arizona and the Federal Office of Head Start.

What it takes:

• HS/GED with an Infant and toddler center-based CDA credential
• Some experience working with young children.

What sets you apart:

• An associate or bachelor’s degree in early childhood education or a related field is preferred.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) proficiency is a plus, but not required.

Licenses & Certifications Required

• Valid Arizona Fingerprint Clearance Card – OR - must qualify for a valid Arizona Level One Fingerprint Clearance Card.
• CPR and First Aid Certification (or willing to complete upon hire)
• Arizona Centralized Background Check (CBC)
• Food Handler's Card
• Fingerprint Card Level 1
• AZ DES Criminal Affidavit
• AZ DHS Criminal History Affidavit
• Arizona Driver's License

Strength and Mobility:

• Ability to lift 35-50 pounds.
• Ability to stoop, bend, and squat to the child's eye level for an appropriate amount of time.
• Ability to sit for periods of time on the floor with children.
• Ability to get up and down from the floor without assistance.
• Ability to run after a child if necessary.
• Ability to climb flights of stairs.
• Ability to play with children, step, run, and hop.

Learn more about working with us

Our core values reflect our commitment to children, families, caregivers, and the communities we serve. They guide how we work, how we support one another, and how we grow as a team. Learn more about our values and benefits here.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to Federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.