Preschool Teacher (Infant / Toddler)

Company Description

Mariners Church is a biblically-centered, non-denominational church located in Southern California focused on inspiring people to follow Jesus and fearlessly change the world. Mariners is listed as one of the top 20 largest churches in America by Outreach Magazine. We are a community of ordinary people from all walks of life courageously trusting God to do the extraordinary. Simply put, we trust God to do what we can’t—heal, transform, renew, forgive, provide and sustain. Through the redemption story of each believer, God is glorified, lives are changed and communities are impacted in a significant way. Come and be part of a new season of growth as Mariners Church responds to God’s call in launching new congregations.

Job Description

At Mariners Church Preschool (MCP), we’re passionate about creating a loving, Christ-centered environment where children (birth through 5 years old) grow in faith and thrive in early childhood development. Our teachers play a key role in guiding young learners through engaging, age-appropriate learning experiences while sharing the Good News of Jesus.

We’re looking for warm, dedicated Preschool Teachers to join our team and help children build a strong foundation - spiritually, emotionally, socially, and academically.

What You’ll Do

As a Preschool Teacher at MCP, you’ll:

• Create a nurturing, Christ-centered classroom where children feel loved, safe, and encouraged to grow.
• Plan and deliver engaging, developmentally appropriate curriculum that supports children’s learning and spiritual growth.
• Maintain compliance with Title 22 and all state licensing requirements.
• Communicate effectively with parents about their child’s progress, classroom updates, and school/church events.
• Conduct ongoing child assessments and maintain individual portfolios aligned with California’s Preschool Learning Foundations.
• Prepare for and lead Parent/Teacher Conferences.
• Manage classroom behavior with grace and consistency while supporting each child’s unique needs.
• Work closely with your co-teachers and the MCP team to ensure a cohesive, high-quality learning environment.
• Attend staff meetings, professional development days, and complete 21 hours of approved training each year.
• Keep classroom records and contribute to accreditation and quality assessment efforts.
• Help foster a strong school and church community through participation in special events throughout the year.

Qualifications

What We’re Looking For

• A love for Jesus and a heart for children and families.
• A warm, welcoming, and professional presence.
• Ability to collaborate well with teammates and contribute to a positive school culture.
• Excellent communication skills with both children and adults.
• A strong understanding of child development and emergent curriculum planning.
• Meets all Title 22 requirements and qualifications outlined by the State of California for preschool teachers.

Physical Requirements
To ensure safety and active engagement with children, this role requires the ability to:

• Stand, walk, kneel, and sit on the floor for extended periods.
• Lift and carry children up to 40 pounds.
• Set up classroom materials and participate in indoor/outdoor play.
• React quickly in emergencies and provide basic first aid if needed.
• Support and supervise children during active play, including bending and getting down to their eye level.

Other Requirements

• At least 6 months work experience in a licensed child care center.
• Able to work 40 hours per week.
• Clear Live Scan and Criminal Background 
• 12 units of Early Childhood Education/Child Development minimum, with required coursework in Child Growth & Development, Child, Family & Community, Curriculum, and an ECE/CD Elective, plus 3 semester units in Infant/Toddler Development. AA or BA preferred.
• Current CPR/First Aid Certification 
• Record of immunizations: current TB test clearance, MMR, DTaP
• Hours may vary as needed; center open from 7am-6pm
• Must be able to work a full 8 hours shift with 1 hour lunch break within the center hours. Shifts available are 7a-4p, 7:30a-4:30p, 8a-5p, 8:30a-5:30p, or 9a-6p.

Additional Information

All Mariners Church Staff:

• Love Jesus and call themselves Christians.
• Embrace a high biblical standard of personal conduct and lifestyle.
• Agree to and adhere to the church's statement of faith and leadership commitment. 

We believe the total combination of your pay, benefits, and opportunities aligned with your calling will ensure that you and your family are provided for. The following items are just a sample of the things we offer for full-time employment:

• Health insurance (medical, dental and vision)
• 403b Retirement Saving Plan
• Paid vacation
• Paid time off to serve
• Discounts at the Mariners Cafe and Bookstore
• Tuition discount for Mariners Church Preschool 
• Opportunity to attend ministry events and conferences
• Working alongside a community of supportive, like-minded believers
• Compensation Range: $22-$30 / hour