Where Purpose Meets Passion in Early Childhood Education

At Explorer Learning Academy, we don’t just offer jobs — we build careers that honor culture, center children, and uplift community. Rooted in our values of equity, exploration, and excellence, ELA is where early learning professionals find support, growth, and a sense of belonging.

We are a Black-owned, culturally responsive program dedicated to cultivating brilliance in every child — and we’re looking for educators and staff who share our commitment to transformative care and education.

Why Join ELA?

  • Competitive Compensation

    New Teachers start at $21/hour

    Lead Preschool Teachers start at $24/hour;

    Lead Infant start at $23/hour.

    Lead Toddler Teachers start at $23/hour.

    Directors, Sub Directors, and Leads are salaried roles

  • Robust Benefits

    Medical, dental, vision add life insurance

    Paid sick leave

    Paid vacation

    Paid holidays

    Tuition reimbursement

    Student loan repayment

  • Performance Bonuses

    Monthly enrollment bonuses

    Quarterly bonuses for zero licensing violations

    Annual 5-Star SPARK rating

    Incentives tied to growth,

    Bonuses are clear, collaborative, and tied to team success.

  • Professional Development

    Career growth into leadership and management roles

    On-site coaching & mentorship

    Support to advance Oregon Registry Step Levels

    Paid training hours included in your regular schedule

    Access to workshops to expand your expertise.

 OPEN POSITIONS

Director
Salaried · NE Portland · Full-Time · On-Site
Apply Now
Sub-Director / Cook
Salaried · NE Portland · Full-Time · On-Site
Apply Now
Lead Preschool Teacher
Salaried · NE Portland · Full-Time · On-Site · Starts at $24/hour
Apply Now
Assistant Preschool Teacher
Hourly · NE Portland · Full-Time · On-Site · Starts at $21/hour
Apply Now
Lead Infant Teacher
Salaried · NE Portland · Full-Time · On-Site · Starts at $23/hour
Apply Now
Assistant Infant Teacher
Hourly · NE Portland · Full-Time · On-Site · Starts at $21/hour
Apply Now
Lead Toddler Teacher
Salaried · NE Portland · Full-Time · On-Site · Starts at $23/hour
Apply Now
Preschool Floater
Hourly · NE Portland · Full-Time · On-Site · Starts at $21/hour
Apply Now
Infant Toddler Floater
Hourly · NE Portland · Full-Time · On-Site · Starts at $21/hour
Apply Now

Current Job Openings

  • Program Director

    Type: Full-time
    Salary: $52,000–$80,000 annually

    (base + up to $45,000 performance bonuses)
    Lead all operations of our 50-slot center, including licensing, staffing, enrollment, and curriculum implementation.

    Requirements:

    Oregon Registry Step 9+

    3+ years of experience managing a licensed childcare program

    Strong leadership, SPARK experience, and contract compliance (PFA, CCI, ERDC)

    Proficient computer skills in utilizing digital tools such as the Kaymbu and ProCare platform for classroom documentation and communication.

    Current CBR and Training

    Read More

  • Lead Infant Toddler Teacher

    Type: Full-time
    Pay: $21 - $24 per hour

    Qualifications:

    Step 7 in ORO and

    at least two years of Preschool classroom experience.

    Fluent in both African American Vernacular English (AAVE) and English.

    Proficient computer skills in utilizing digital tools such as the Kaymbu platform for classroom documentation and communication.

    Pass a background check

    📩 To Apply:
    Email your resume to admin@elapdx.com
    Include the position you are applying for in the subject line.

  • Infant Toddler Assistant Teacher

    Type: Full-time
    Pay: $21 - $23 per hour

    Qualifications

    High school diploma or equivalent.

    Proficient computer skills in utilizing digital tools such as the Kaymbu platform for classroom documentation and communication.

    Self-motivated with a high energy and positive demeanor.

    Fluent in both African American Vernacular English (AAVE) and English.

    Step 5 or higher in the Oregon Registry Online (ORO) system.

    Pass a background check.

    📩 To Apply:
    Email your resume to admin@elapdx.com
    Include the position you are applying for in the subject line.

  • Lead Preschool Teacher

    Type: Full-time
    Pay: $23 - $25 per hour

    Qualifications

    High school diploma or equivalent.

    Proficient computer skills in utilizing digital tools such as the Kaymbu platform for classroom documentation and communication.

    Self-motivated with a high energy and positive demeanor.

    Fluent in both Spanish and English.

    Step 8 or higher in the Oregon Registry Online (ORO) system.

    Pass a background check.

    📩 To Apply:
    Email your resume to admin@elapdx.com
    Include the position you are applying for in the subject line.

  • Preschool Assistant Teacher

    Type: Full-time
    Pay: $21 - $23 per hour

    Qualifications

    High school diploma or equivalent.

    Proficient computer skills in utilizing digital tools such as the Kaymbu platform for classroom documentation and communication.

    Self-motivated with a high energy and positive demeanor.

    Fluent in both Spanish and English.

    Step 5 or higher in the Oregon Registry Online (ORO) system.

    Pass a background check.

    📩 To Apply:
    Email your resume to admin@elapdx.com
    Include the position you are applying for in the subject line.

  • Cook

    Type: Part time

    Pay: $22-$25/hour

    Prepare USDA-compliant meals and snacks for children ages 0–5. Flexible morning schedule, Monday–Friday.

    Requirements:

    Valid Food Handler’s Card

    Experience in childcare or school kitchens a plus

    📩 To Apply:
    Email your resume to admin@elapdx.com
    Include the position you are applying for in the subject line.

  • Floater Teacher

    Support infant, toddler, and preschool classrooms as needed. Great opportunity to gain experience across age groups.
    Pay: $22/hour
    Requirements: Step 7+, flexible, reliable, team player

    📩 To Apply:
    Email your resume to admin@elapdx.com
    Include the position you are applying for in the subject line.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their resume and professional development statement from ORO to admin@elapdx.com. Please include the job title you are applying for in the subject line. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.