Multitude of Mercies Foundation
Rooted in compassion, growing through learning, thriving in community.

Position Title: Head Preschool Teacher (Ages 0–6)
Reports To: Early Learning Program Director
Location: Portland, Oregon
Position Type: Full-Time / Hourly (Non-Exempt)

​

Work Schedule:

• Typical schedule between 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM, based on program needs

• Occasional evening family events, staff meetings, or training may be required

 

Position Summary

The Preschool Head Teacher provides nurturing, developmentally appropriate, and culturally responsive instruction for children ages 0–6 in alignment with the Multitude of Mercies Foundation’s early learning philosophy. This position supports each child’s spiritual, social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth in a safe and inclusive environment. The teacher ensures all classroom activities promote school readiness, family engagement, and early literacy.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage classroom routines, transitions, and behavior using developmentally appropriate guidance strategies

• Plan, implement, and evaluate daily lessons and activities aligned with Oregon Early Learning Standards, Creative Curriculum, and the foundation’s faith-based holistic approach.

• Observe, assess, and document each child’s progress across developmental domains; identify potential learning delays, disabilities, or behavioral challenges and refer for early intervention when appropriate.

• Create a nurturing, structured, and engaging classroom that promotes curiosity, cooperation, and respect among children.

• Maintain a clean, safe, and sanitary learning environment. Ensure proper supervision ratios and comply with all Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) licensing regulations, health and safety standards, and supervision ratios.

• Build strong partnerships with parents and guardians through daily communication, progress reports, and family conferences.

• Maintain confidentiality, ethical standards, and compliance with all agency, state, and federal early childhood regulations.

• Work collaboratively with assistant teachers, volunteers, and program staff to ensure consistent, high-quality instruction and support services.

• Model compassion, respect, and integrity consistent with the Foundation’s values and commitment to serving children and families from diverse backgrounds.

• Maintain accurate attendance records, incident reports, and developmental documentation in accordance with program policies.

 

Required Qualifications

• Associate or Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field (CDA credential acceptable with relevant experience).

• Current CPR/First Aid Certification (infant, child, and adult).

• Food Handler’s Card (or willingness to obtain within 30 days of hire).

• Training in recognizing and responding to child abuse and neglect (mandatory reporter certification).

• Demonstrated ability to identify and support learning disabilities and developmental delays, including use of screening tools such as ASQ, ASQ:SE, or DRDP.

• Minimum 2 years of classroom teaching experience in an early childhood or preschool setting.

• Strong interpersonal, communication, and documentation skills.

• Commitment to equity, cultural responsiveness, and trauma-informed practice.

• Must be enrolled in and cleared through the Oregon Early Learning and Care Central Background Registry prior to employment.
   

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree or higher in Early Childhood Education or Human Development.

• Bilingual in English and Spanish or other languages commonly spoken by families served. 

• Knowledge of Positive Behavior Support (PBS) and social–emotional learning frameworks (e.g., Conscious Discipline, Second Step).

• Experience working with children with special needs or Individualized Family Service Plans (IFSPs).
   

Physical & Environmental Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds.

• Frequent standing, bending, sitting on the floor, and engaging in active play.

• Exposure to outdoor elements during playground or community activities.
   

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive hourly wage ranging from $20–$25, based on education, experience, and professional credentials.

• Paid professional development and continuing education support.

• Health and wellness benefits (as applicable). 

• Supportive, faith-affirming, and inclusive work environment.
   

Equal Opportunity Statement

Multitude of Mercies Foundation is an equal opportunity employer committed to building an inclusive workforce that reflects the communities we serve.