Early Years Educator – Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow, Ireland

Are you a qualified Early Years Educator passionate about supporting young children's learning, development and well-being?

We are currently recruiting an Early Years Educator to join an established childcare service in Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow, offering a permanent, full-time position, a competitive hourly salary and excellent employee benefits.

This is an excellent opportunity to develop your career in Ireland while working in a supportive, child-centred environment dedicated to providing high-quality early childhood education and care.

About the Employer

Our client is an established childcare provider committed to delivering high-quality early childhood education and care.

The service focuses on creating a safe, nurturing and stimulating environment where children can learn, explore and develop through play-based and age-appropriate educational experiences.

With an emphasis on children's individual needs, social development and well-being, the team promotes a positive learning environment that encourages independence, creativity and confidence.

About the Role

As an Early Years Educator, you will work as part of a professional childcare team, supporting children's learning, development and daily activities.

You will play an important role in creating a welcoming, inclusive and engaging learning environment where children feel safe, valued and encouraged to reach their full potential.

The position is permanent and full-time, with 40 working hours per week, Monday to Friday.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver engaging, age-appropriate educational activities that support children's learning and development.
• Create a safe, nurturing and stimulating environment that promotes children's physical, emotional, social and intellectual development.
• Implement the Aistear Curriculum and Síolta Framework in daily educational practice.
• Encourage children's independence, creativity, communication and social interaction through play-based learning.
• Observe, assess and document children's learning experiences and developmental progress.
• Support children's daily routines, including meals, hygiene, rest and transitions between activities.
• Promote positive behaviour and respectful interactions among children.
• Maintain high standards of safeguarding, health, safety and hygiene.
• Build positive and professional relationships with parents and families.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues and management to ensure high-quality childcare and educational practices.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• A minimum QQI Level 5 qualification in Early Childhood Education or an equivalent qualification recognised in Ireland.
• EU citizenship or an existing legal right to work in Ireland without employment permit sponsorship.
• Previous experience working with young children in a childcare, preschool or early years setting is desirable.
• Good understanding of child development and play-based learning.
• Familiarity with the Aistear Curriculum and Síolta Framework is an advantage.
• Good English communication skills.
• A caring, patient and enthusiastic approach to working with young children.
• Excellent interpersonal and teamwork skills.
• Strong organisational skills and a professional attitude.
• Willingness to complete all required pre-employment checks, including Garda Vetting.

Salary & Benefits

• Hourly salary based on qualifications and experience, within the employer's advertised range of €13.00–€16.00, subject to applicable statutory and ERO minimum rates.
• Permanent, full-time employment.
• 40 working hours per week, Monday to Friday.
• Free on-site parking.
• Free staff uniforms.
• Paid Christmas and summer parties.
• Special birthday treats.
• Employee recognition programme, including Employee of the Month and Team of the Quarter.
• Personal development opportunities.
• Training and professional development support.
• Staff childcare discount scheme.
• Opportunity to work within an established childcare organisation.