Lead Teachers – Join the ChildRoots Team!

ChildRoots is a small, unionized, locally and woman-owned family of three childcare centers in Portland, Oregon. We view children as authentic, capable individuals, and our mission is to nurture their social and emotional development while fostering a deep sense of wonder about the world around them. Our thoughtfully designed, child-centered classrooms spark curiosity and encourage exploration, but it is our dedicated teachers and support staff who make ChildRoots truly exceptional.

ChildRoots NW is located at 1740 NW Flanders St, Portland, Oregon, 97209

  • Apply here to become a Lead Teacher with our Northwest location!

ChildRoots SE is located at 50 SE 17th Ave, Portland, Oregon, 97214

  • Apply here to become a Lead Teacher with our Southeast location!

ChildRoots Fremont is located at 2401 NE Fremont St, Portland, Oregon, 97212

  • No Current Openings.

Position Overview

We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Lead Teachers to join our team. This full-time position (Monday – Friday, 8-hour shifts, FTE = 1.0) provides primary care and education services for a consistent classroom of children, ensuring continuity of care and fostering secure, meaningful relationships. Our Lead Teachers guide children through an environment rich in sensory experiences, plan play-based curriculum and support play-based learning, and early social-emotional skill building. Given the importance of consistency in care, we are seeking a candidate who can commit to at least one year in this role.

There are three age groups that Lead Teachers work with:

  • Infants: zero months to twenty-three months of age

  • Toddlers: twenty-four to thirty-five months of age

  • Preschool: thirty-six months of age and older

Qualifications & Requirements

To be considered for a classroom teaching role at ChildRoots, applicants must meet one of the teacher-qualification criteria, set by the Office of Child Care requirements. 

To be considered for a role at ChildRoots, applicants are enrolled in Oregon's Central Background Registry with a minimum Step 7.

Oregon’s Safety Set Trainings and other certifications are also REQUIRED to be considered for a role at ChildRoots:

Compensation & Benefits

All Lead Teachers start at:

  • Step 7-8.5 = $22.67/hour

  • Step 9-9.5 = $25.01/hour

  • Step 10+ = $29.42/hour

In the 2026-2027 school year (rate effective 7/1/2026), the starting rate for Lead Teachers will adjust to:

  • Step 7-8.5 = $24.86/hour

  • Step 9-9.5 = $28.18/hour

  • Step 10+ = $33.15/hour

Please note: Current wage structure is based on PFA wages and is subject to PFA adjustment per annum.

We offer standardized annual raises and long-term commitment bonuses, ensuring transparency and fairness—there is no need for negotiation or uncertainty about your compensation.

We recognize that educators deserve support, appreciation, and financial security. Our benefits package includes:

✅ Health & Vision Insurance – majority employer-paid
✅ Dental Insurance – majority employer-paid
✅ Life Insurance – 100% employer-paid
✅ 401(k) Retirement Plan – Generous company match
✅ Paid Time Off – Including holidays, a weeklong Winter Break, a weeklong Spring Break, and three long weekends
✅ Professional Development Opportunities – Supporting ongoing education and OCC training requirements

Our Work Culture

At ChildRoots, we prioritize the well-being of both children and educators. We strive to foster a supportive work environment where teachers feel seen, valued, and encouraged. We deeply appreciate the dedication and effort our staff bring each day and are committed to offering stability, emotional support, and a positive workplace culture.

We Look Forward to Meeting You!

WOULD YOU LIKE TO WORK WITH US?

Please take a virtual tour of our facilities and, when you’re ready to apply, complete our quick and easy online application.

Thank you, and stay well!

Updated 06/02/2026 (LR)