OPT Early Childhood Education Jobs
Early childhood education jobs on OPT are available at preschools, Head Start programs, childcare centers, and K-3 schools. Most roles require a degree in early childhood education or child development. STEM OPT extension eligibility depends on whether your degree falls under a qualifying CIP code.
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See Position Description
Location
3000 NE 4th Street Renton, WA
Job Type
Part-time Faculty
Job Number
26-R0013
Department
Instruction
Opening Date
11/05/2026
Position
Renton Technical College is seeking an Instructor to join our Early Childhood Education Program! This part-time teaching position is responsible for delivering, updating, and enhancing curriculum within the Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education program. Instruction may include topics such as developmentally appropriate learning experiences, health, safety and nutrition, childcare licensing requirements, supporting children with special needs, and culturally responsive and anti-bias practices.
This is an adjunct (part-time) faculty position contracted on a quarterly basis. Hours and course assignments may vary based on program need. Occasional evening and weekend commitments may be required. Most courses are delivered fully online. Some courses, particularly those offered in Spanish, are delivered in a hybrid format and include on-campus sessions on Saturday. While courses offered in English are primarily online, occasional in-person events or meetings may be scheduled throughout the quarter.
The instructor will report directly to the Dean of Health & Human Services. This position has been designated as a bargaining unit position represented by the Renton Federation of Teachers (RFT) Employees Association. For additional information, please review the contract on our website.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis as needs arise within each department. The Dean of Health & Human Services will evaluate applications periodically and contact candidates as adjunct positions become available. Note that applications may be reviewed at any time while this posting remains active.
Renton Technical College, located southeast of Seattle, has provided quality education in a variety of occupations for over 80 years. Our professional-technical certificate and degree programs offer entry and mid-level training in the areas of allied health, trades and industry, culinary, business, technology, and automotive. Our outstanding college & career pathways program with classes in adult basic education, English as a second language, and GED preparation is available to those who need additional preparation before entering a training program and for those who simply wish to improve their math and English skills. Career Education and apprenticeships degrees round out our offerings.
Key Responsibilities / Essential Functions Include
- Effectively teach the adopted curriculum for the Early Childhood Education program. Implement ECE and RTC policies and procedures.
- Provide for the orderly conduct of program learning activities, individual student learning needs, and the appropriate evaluation of student progress towards attaining the learning objectives.
- Evaluate student progress towards attaining the learning objectives to include individual assignments, projects, quizzes, and tests.
- Maintain and submit student records, documentation, and program reports.
- Coordinate/participate in recruiting and job placement activities for students.
- Actively participate in and develop and maintain effective working relationships with the program advisory committee.
- Develop and maintain effective working relationships with students and staff.
- Effectively participate in staff and college committees and activities.
- Support the college's mission by creating a learning environment of mutual respect and fairness, while encouraging creative and critical thinking. Contribute to the appreciation of diversity and foster a climate of multicultural understanding.
- Communicate professionally and effectively, both orally and in writing, with college employees, departments and outside agencies.
- Perform other related projects and assignments as assigned.
Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Experience with persons from diverse backgrounds such as sexual orientation, racial, ethnic, religious, linguistic, gender, age, socio-economic, physical and learning abilities, and a commitment to an inclusive and equitable working / learning environment.
- Bachelor’s degree in early childhood development or related field such as Children’s Studies, Child Development is preferred.
- Written and spoken proficiency in English is required.
- A minimum of two years of experience in childcare beyond educational preparation is required.
- Experience teaching adults learners.
- Demonstrated interest and ability to work successfully with students, staff, and the community. Excellent leadership and interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively as part of a team.
- Demonstrated attention to detail required as well as previous experience maintaining accurate records, managing multiple tasks, and planning and organizing work in order to meet changing priorities and deadlines.
- Successful experience with diverse populations of varied ethnicity, ages, backgrounds and abilities, and a commitment to a culturally diverse environment.
- Demonstrated ability to promote universal design and accessibility. Proficiency in (or ability to learn within 6 month of hire) the production of accessible content, whether print or electronic.
- Ability to represent the college in a positive and professional manner, while using tact, discretion, and courtesy.
- Ability to speak a regionally top spoken language other than English is preferred (Spanish, Vietnamese, Russian, Somali, and Chinese).
WORKING CONDITIONS:
Working hours are generally aligned with standard business hours, Monday through Friday. Occasional evening and weekend commitments may be required. Most courses are delivered fully online. Some courses, particularly those offered in Spanish, are delivered in a hybrid format and include on-campus sessions on Saturday. While courses offered in English are primarily online, occasional in-person events or meetings may be scheduled throughout the quarter.
Work is mostly sedentary in nature, performed in an office environment. Frequent use of a computer and exposure to terminal screens is required. Work and meetings may take place across campus. May drive/travel to trainings, conferences, and/or college events.
Terms of Employment
In the interest of providing a healthy, safe and secure educational and work environment, and in order to meet the requirements of federal legislation, it is the policy of Renton Technical College to maintain an alcohol and drug-free workplace for our employees and students.
Candidates will be asked to provide documentation of unofficial transcripts of graduate coursework. This is an adjunct faculty position contracted on a quarterly basis. Depending on the start date of the faculty, the contract received may be prorated. Lecture (theory) credits are compensated at $1,118 per credit, which includes scheduled class time and final exam days. All guided practice instructional credits for adjunct will be paid with an additional pay factor of 1.33. Future advancement in base salary, up to the current maximum of $1,683 per credit, is based upon a combination of years of service accrued at our college and professional development activity.
Degree Stipend: Master’s or Doctorate degree stipends are paid on a prorated per credit rate.
The person hired is required to provide authorization for employment in the United States. All offers of employment are contingent to background checks, including employment and required degree/credential verification. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform successfully in the position. Finalists are required to complete the Sexual Misconduct Disclosure form as required under RCW 288.112.080. Post offer, pre-employment criminal background checks are also required.
For questions regarding this position contact recruiting@rtc.edu.
EEO STATEMENT: Renton Technical College provides equal opportunity in education and employment and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color national origin, age, perceived or actual physical or mental disability, pregnancy, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, creed, religion, honorably discharged veterans or military status, or use of a trained guide dog or service animal, as required by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, Sections 504 and 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act and ADA Amendment Act, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, the Violence Against Women Re-authorization Act and Washington State Law Against Discrimination, Chapter 49.60 RCW and their implementing regulations. The following college official has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies: Title IX / EEO Coordinator, Lesley Hogan, Vice President of Human Resources 3000 NE 4th Street Renton, WA 98056 (425)235-7873,titleix@rtc.edu.
Jeanne Clery statement: Notice of Availability of Annual Security and Fire Safety Report: In compliance with Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act of 1998, and as a part of the College's commitment to safety and security on campus, Renton Technical College reports the mandate information about current campus policies concerning safety and security issues, the required statistics, and other related information for the past three (3) calendar years. Renton Technical College's Annual Safety and Fire Report is available online at: https://rtc.edu/about-rtc/campus-resources/campus-security/annual-security-report.php For information on how to access the RTC Daily Crime Log follow this link: https://rtc.edu/about-rtc/campus-resources/campus-security/daily-crime-log.php.
We acknowledge that RTC sits uninvited on the ancestral land of the Puget Salish people, including the Duwamish, Suquamish, Snoqualmie, Tulalip, and Muckleshoot Nations. We are grateful to the original inhabitants of this land, upon which we gather and dialogue. We also acknowledge our increasingly virtual world, in which RTC’s work is done across multiple indigenous lands, in some cases, away from Puget Salish territories. We thank the original caretakers of our local lands and waters, who are still here.
Beyond acknowledgment, we each have an obligation to learn about and support our local tribes. Find out how on our resources page, which includes scholarships for Indigenous students.
Salary
See Position Description
Location
3000 NE 4th Street Renton, WA
Job Type
Part-time Faculty
Job Number
26-R0013
Department
Instruction
Opening Date
11/05/2026
Position
Renton Technical College is seeking an Instructor to join our Early Childhood Education Program! This part-time teaching position is responsible for delivering, updating, and enhancing curriculum within the Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education program. Instruction may include topics such as developmentally appropriate learning experiences, health, safety and nutrition, childcare licensing requirements, supporting children with special needs, and culturally responsive and anti-bias practices.
This is an adjunct (part-time) faculty position contracted on a quarterly basis. Hours and course assignments may vary based on program need. Occasional evening and weekend commitments may be required. Most courses are delivered fully online. Some courses, particularly those offered in Spanish, are delivered in a hybrid format and include on-campus sessions on Saturday. While courses offered in English are primarily online, occasional in-person events or meetings may be scheduled throughout the quarter.
The instructor will report directly to the Dean of Health & Human Services. This position has been designated as a bargaining unit position represented by the Renton Federation of Teachers (RFT) Employees Association. For additional information, please review the contract on our website.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis as needs arise within each department. The Dean of Health & Human Services will evaluate applications periodically and contact candidates as adjunct positions become available. Note that applications may be reviewed at any time while this posting remains active.
Renton Technical College, located southeast of Seattle, has provided quality education in a variety of occupations for over 80 years. Our professional-technical certificate and degree programs offer entry and mid-level training in the areas of allied health, trades and industry, culinary, business, technology, and automotive. Our outstanding college & career pathways program with classes in adult basic education, English as a second language, and GED preparation is available to those who need additional preparation before entering a training program and for those who simply wish to improve their math and English skills. Career Education and apprenticeships degrees round out our offerings.
Key Responsibilities / Essential Functions Include
- Effectively teach the adopted curriculum for the Early Childhood Education program. Implement ECE and RTC policies and procedures.
- Provide for the orderly conduct of program learning activities, individual student learning needs, and the appropriate evaluation of student progress towards attaining the learning objectives.
- Evaluate student progress towards attaining the learning objectives to include individual assignments, projects, quizzes, and tests.
- Maintain and submit student records, documentation, and program reports.
- Coordinate/participate in recruiting and job placement activities for students.
- Actively participate in and develop and maintain effective working relationships with the program advisory committee.
- Develop and maintain effective working relationships with students and staff.
- Effectively participate in staff and college committees and activities.
- Support the college's mission by creating a learning environment of mutual respect and fairness, while encouraging creative and critical thinking. Contribute to the appreciation of diversity and foster a climate of multicultural understanding.
- Communicate professionally and effectively, both orally and in writing, with college employees, departments and outside agencies.
- Perform other related projects and assignments as assigned.
Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Experience with persons from diverse backgrounds such as sexual orientation, racial, ethnic, religious, linguistic, gender, age, socio-economic, physical and learning abilities, and a commitment to an inclusive and equitable working / learning environment.
- Bachelor’s degree in early childhood development or related field such as Children’s Studies, Child Development is preferred.
- Written and spoken proficiency in English is required.
- A minimum of two years of experience in childcare beyond educational preparation is required.
- Experience teaching adults learners.
- Demonstrated interest and ability to work successfully with students, staff, and the community. Excellent leadership and interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively as part of a team.
- Demonstrated attention to detail required as well as previous experience maintaining accurate records, managing multiple tasks, and planning and organizing work in order to meet changing priorities and deadlines.
- Successful experience with diverse populations of varied ethnicity, ages, backgrounds and abilities, and a commitment to a culturally diverse environment.
- Demonstrated ability to promote universal design and accessibility. Proficiency in (or ability to learn within 6 month of hire) the production of accessible content, whether print or electronic.
- Ability to represent the college in a positive and professional manner, while using tact, discretion, and courtesy.
- Ability to speak a regionally top spoken language other than English is preferred (Spanish, Vietnamese, Russian, Somali, and Chinese).
WORKING CONDITIONS:
Working hours are generally aligned with standard business hours, Monday through Friday. Occasional evening and weekend commitments may be required. Most courses are delivered fully online. Some courses, particularly those offered in Spanish, are delivered in a hybrid format and include on-campus sessions on Saturday. While courses offered in English are primarily online, occasional in-person events or meetings may be scheduled throughout the quarter.
Work is mostly sedentary in nature, performed in an office environment. Frequent use of a computer and exposure to terminal screens is required. Work and meetings may take place across campus. May drive/travel to trainings, conferences, and/or college events.
Terms of Employment
In the interest of providing a healthy, safe and secure educational and work environment, and in order to meet the requirements of federal legislation, it is the policy of Renton Technical College to maintain an alcohol and drug-free workplace for our employees and students.
Candidates will be asked to provide documentation of unofficial transcripts of graduate coursework. This is an adjunct faculty position contracted on a quarterly basis. Depending on the start date of the faculty, the contract received may be prorated. Lecture (theory) credits are compensated at $1,118 per credit, which includes scheduled class time and final exam days. All guided practice instructional credits for adjunct will be paid with an additional pay factor of 1.33. Future advancement in base salary, up to the current maximum of $1,683 per credit, is based upon a combination of years of service accrued at our college and professional development activity.
Degree Stipend: Master’s or Doctorate degree stipends are paid on a prorated per credit rate.
The person hired is required to provide authorization for employment in the United States. All offers of employment are contingent to background checks, including employment and required degree/credential verification. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform successfully in the position. Finalists are required to complete the Sexual Misconduct Disclosure form as required under RCW 288.112.080. Post offer, pre-employment criminal background checks are also required.
For questions regarding this position contact recruiting@rtc.edu.
EEO STATEMENT: Renton Technical College provides equal opportunity in education and employment and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color national origin, age, perceived or actual physical or mental disability, pregnancy, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, creed, religion, honorably discharged veterans or military status, or use of a trained guide dog or service animal, as required by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, Sections 504 and 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act and ADA Amendment Act, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, the Violence Against Women Re-authorization Act and Washington State Law Against Discrimination, Chapter 49.60 RCW and their implementing regulations. The following college official has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies: Title IX / EEO Coordinator, Lesley Hogan, Vice President of Human Resources 3000 NE 4th Street Renton, WA 98056 (425)235-7873,titleix@rtc.edu.
Jeanne Clery statement: Notice of Availability of Annual Security and Fire Safety Report: In compliance with Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act of 1998, and as a part of the College's commitment to safety and security on campus, Renton Technical College reports the mandate information about current campus policies concerning safety and security issues, the required statistics, and other related information for the past three (3) calendar years. Renton Technical College's Annual Safety and Fire Report is available online at: https://rtc.edu/about-rtc/campus-resources/campus-security/annual-security-report.php For information on how to access the RTC Daily Crime Log follow this link: https://rtc.edu/about-rtc/campus-resources/campus-security/daily-crime-log.php.
We acknowledge that RTC sits uninvited on the ancestral land of the Puget Salish people, including the Duwamish, Suquamish, Snoqualmie, Tulalip, and Muckleshoot Nations. We are grateful to the original inhabitants of this land, upon which we gather and dialogue. We also acknowledge our increasingly virtual world, in which RTC’s work is done across multiple indigenous lands, in some cases, away from Puget Salish territories. We thank the original caretakers of our local lands and waters, who are still here.
Beyond acknowledgment, we each have an obligation to learn about and support our local tribes. Find out how on our resources page, which includes scholarships for Indigenous students.
See all 57+ OPT Early Childhood Education Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Early Childhood Education Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship in Early Childhood Education
Target public school districts early
Public school districts often have HR departments familiar with work authorization. Apply 3 to 4 months before the school year starts, when hiring decisions are made and there is still time to process your OPT documentation.
Clarify your STEM OPT eligibility upfront
Early childhood education and child development degrees sometimes qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension. Confirm your CIP code with your DSO before job searching so you can honestly represent your authorization timeline to employers.
Address work authorization proactively in applications
Many childcare employers are unfamiliar with OPT. Include a brief, clear sentence in your cover letter explaining that you are authorized to work for any employer and that no sponsorship is currently required during your OPT period.
Focus on employers with established HR infrastructure
Larger childcare chains, university-affiliated lab schools, and nonprofit Head Start grantees are more likely to have HR teams that understand employment verification and EAD documentation than small independent centers.
Get your state teaching license or CDA credential now
Many states require a Child Development Associate credential or state teaching license for lead teacher roles. Obtaining credentials before you apply removes a hiring barrier and signals long-term commitment to employers considering OPT students.
Plan your H-1B or O-1 pathway before OPT ends
Early childhood education roles can qualify for H-1B visa sponsorship if the position requires a relevant bachelor's degree. Research which employers have sponsored visas before and discuss long-term options with any employer before your OPT authorization expires.
Early Childhood Education OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work as a lead teacher or classroom teacher on OPT?
Yes. Lead teacher and classroom teacher roles at preschools, Head Start programs, and elementary schools are eligible OPT employment as long as the work is directly related to your degree in early childhood education or child development. Your EAD card serves as proof of work authorization. Make sure the job description aligns with your field of study, which your DSO can help you confirm.
Does an early childhood education degree qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
It depends on your specific CIP code. Some early childhood education programs are classified under STEM-eligible codes, such as those emphasizing child development science or educational psychology. Others are not. Check with your DSO and confirm your program's CIP code on your I-20 before assuming STEM OPT eligibility. If your degree qualifies, you can apply for an additional 24 months of work authorization beyond your initial 12-month OPT period.
How do I find early childhood education employers who are open to OPT students?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for F-1 OPT and visa-sponsoring employers, making it a practical starting point for early childhood education job searches. Beyond that, target larger organizations such as Head Start grantees, university lab schools, and nonprofit childcare networks, which tend to have HR teams more familiar with EAD documentation and work authorization than small independent centers.
Will I need state licensure or a CDA credential to work on OPT in this field?
State licensure and credential requirements vary. Many states require a Child Development Associate credential, a state-issued teaching license, or both for lead teacher roles in licensed childcare facilities. These requirements apply to all workers regardless of immigration status, so you should research your state's specific rules and pursue any required credentials before or shortly after starting your job search.
Can an early childhood education employer sponsor me for an H-1B after OPT?
Yes, early childhood education roles can qualify for H-1B sponsorship if the position genuinely requires a bachelor's degree or higher in a specific field such as early childhood education or child development. Public school districts and larger nonprofit organizations are the most common sponsors in this field. Confirm H-1B eligibility with an immigration attorney before committing to an employer, and have the conversation with your employer well before your OPT period ends.