Substitute Teacher job description template
If you are hiring for this role, start here. This free template is our detailed definition of the position, with everything you need to find and hire the right person. Copy it, add your own requirements, and post it.
What is a Substitute Teacher?
Substitute Teachers serve in public or private schools to provide emergency classroom support, fill long-term absences, or cover a class during a transition phase.
They take tasks on a flexible schedule and may be called in to fill in on school days in the morning.
During class hours, substitute teachers keep track of attendance, conduct quizzes and examinations, explain assignments, collect homework, and offer general supervision.
Substitute Teachers work with pupils one-on-one or in groups to ensure that the regular curriculum is followed.
They provide guided instruction on their topic by reading lesson plans and teaching them to the pupils.
The top Substitute Teacher skills.
Five things separate a strong hire from a résumé that reads well. Use these as your scorecard criteria.
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Copy it as written, or edit it until it sounds like your company. Both work.
We are seeking an enthusiastic and adaptable Substitute Teacher to join our educational team. In this vital role, you will step into the classroom to ensure continuity of learning and provide support to students in the absence of their regular teachers. Your flexibility and ability to engage with students will make a significant impact on their educational experience.
As a Substitute Teacher, you will follow lesson plans, manage classroom behavior, and foster a positive learning environment. If you have a passion for education and the ability to connect with students of diverse backgrounds, we encourage you to apply. Join us in making a difference in students' lives by providing them with stability and guidance during their learning journey.
Duties and responsibilities
- Follow the curriculum and lesson plan that the regular teacher has assigned.
- Follow the processes and meet the objectives of the lesson.
- Assign homework and explain it.
- Supervise pupils in areas other than the classroom, such as the corridors and cafeteria.
- Follow all school laws and procedures.
- Take attendance and keep track of your daily notes.
- Maintain a clean and organized environment in the classroom and at work.
- Oversee the typical classroom activities and rhythms.
- Make a report for the teacher when they come back.
Requirements
- A high school diploma or comparable certification is required.
- A teaching bachelor's degree is desirable.
- Obtain a teaching certificate or work as a substitute teacher.
- A minimum of two years in a similar position is required.
- Detail-oriented and able to follow written and spoken directions are required.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication abilities.
Take the template with you
Copy it straight into your job board or ATS, or have it emailed to you with the interview questions for this role.
What education this role needs.
Substitute Teachers must have at least a bachelor's degree in education or a related field, while most districts prefer candidates with bachelor's degrees in education or a related field.
Some districts need certification for substitute teachers, while others do not.
Any training programs or teacher preparation courses that indicate the candidate's expertise with excellent teaching methods and classroom management would also be a benefit.
Sample interview questions for a Substitute Teacher.
Once you have gathered the applications, work through these in order. Twelve questions across four areas, enough to tell your shortlist apart.
- What motivates you to work as a Substitute Teacher?
- How do you adapt to different classroom environments?
- Can you share a challenging experience you've had in a classroom and how you handled it?
- How do you ensure that you follow school policies and procedures during your assignments?
- How do you manage conflicts that arise between students or with other staff members?
- How do you handle confidential information about students?
- How do you maintain classroom control when stepping into a new class?
- What strategies do you use to engage students and keep them on task?
- How do you prioritize tasks when given little time to prepare?
- How do you stay updated on curriculum changes or teaching methods?
- How do you incorporate technology into your teaching methods?
- How do you assess student understanding when you're only in the classroom for a short time?
How much to pay when hiring.
Annual pay by percentile. Where you land depends on the size of the cycle they will own, and the 25th percentile is usually where a first analyst hire sits.
Hourly equivalents run from $10 at the 10th percentile to $30 at the 90th.
Candidates may apply under a different name.
Post the title your industry uses and keep the rest of the description. These three roles overlap enough that the same posting usually reaches all of them.
Three titles, one description.
Search behavior varies by industry, so the same job is advertised under several names. If you are unsure which one your candidates search for, run two titles and see which fills.
Assistant Teacher
Frequently asked questions.
What qualifications are necessary to be a Substitute Teacher?
Substitute teachers typically need at least a bachelor’s degree, though the specific requirements vary by state and school district.
Some regions may require a teaching certification or a special substitute teaching license. Employers should verify that candidates meet the local educational and licensing requirements to ensure compliance with regulations and quality standards.
How do Substitute Teachers manage classroom behavior?
Substitute teachers should be skilled in maintaining classroom order, even when stepping into a new environment.
They should be able to quickly establish authority, set clear expectations, and use a variety of classroom management techniques to keep students engaged and on task.
Employers should look for candidates with proven experience or training in classroom management, as this is critical for maintaining a productive learning environment.
How do Substitute Teachers prepare for assignments on short notice?
Substitute teachers often have little time to prepare before stepping into a classroom. They should be adaptable and resourceful, capable of following lesson plans left by the regular teacher or creating engaging activities on the spot.
Employers should assess a candidate's ability to be flexible and creative, as well as their familiarity with the subject they may be teaching.
How do Substitute Teachers handle long-term assignments?
When a substitute teacher takes on a long-term assignment, they may be responsible for more than just maintaining the classroom; they might also need to plan lessons, grade assignments, and communicate with parents.
Employers should ensure that candidates have the skills and experience necessary to manage these additional responsibilities effectively.
It is also important to check if they have experience in maintaining continuity in the curriculum and managing the additional workload that comes with long-term positions.
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