Head Teacher (University Child Development Center)

Are you interested in exploring opportunities with UCDC? Do you have a question or would like to have a conversation first? Please feel free to contact our Talent Acquisition Specialists at Michael.Nordenberg@pitt.edu or men78@pitt.edu. In addition to this position, we are also hiring a variety of other positions as well. We are always excited to connect with early childhood education professionals who are passionate about making a meaningful impact in the lives of our students. Apply today!

The Head Teacher is responsible for the planning and implementation of a complete early childhood program including supervision, assessment, and curriculum for a classroom of children. The Head Teacher establishes and maintains professional and supportive relationships with all parents/guardians and supervises and coaches support staff and University student workers. The Head Teacher is responsible for maintaining the classroom, assessing and maintaining care, programming for the classroom and ensuring the safety of all children. The UCDC is a laboratory school and Head Teachers support those efforts by providing practicum experiences and research opportunities to University students and faculty. Head Teachers are expected to contribute professionally to the program, write newsletter articles, attend Head Teacher meetings, and attend three professional development days annually. Head Teachers are required to maintain 12 hours of professional development during their employment and maintain all state licensing and Keystone STARS and NAEYC standards, along with successful implementation of the UCDC philosophy and curriculum. Successful use of technology for parent/guardian communication; assessments and documentation are expected. Strong leadership and communication skills are necessary. Additional duties as required.

Supervises and cares for young children while maintaining a safe, inclusive classroom. Facilitates effective learning programs and prepares lessons and activities in accordance with departmental goals and philosophies. Maintains confidential records and collaborates on scheduling, hiring, programming, and evaluation procedures.

Essential functions include planning and implementation of a complete child development program for a class of children, establishing and maintaining relationships with all parents/guardians, and supervision of support staff.

The work involves occasional, and at times sustained performance of heavier physical tasks such as traversing over rough or uneven surfaces, bending, stooping, traversing space quickly, and lifting and/or carrying 40-pound children. Work exposes the employee to potentially non disabling injuries or illnesses. Duties require regular exposure to the outside. Bloodborne and airborne pathogens present a potential hazard.

The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a fundamental value of the University and is crucial in helping us advance our mission, which includes attracting and retaining diverse workforces. We will continue to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all.

The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.