Does it cost me anything to use Tandem?

No. Tandem is free for educators. You'll never pay us to find work, apply to a job, or get paid.

What is Tandem, exactly?

Tandem connects early childhood educators to the centers in their community. You can pick up substitute shifts, apply to permanent openings, or do both. One profile, and you choose how you use it.

What's the difference between substitute shifts and Tandem Recruit?

Substitute shifts are day-to-day work you pick up on your own schedule at centers near you. Tandem Recruit is our job board for permanent openings, where you apply to full-time and part-time roles the same way you'd apply to any job, just with a profile you've already built. Same account, two different ways to work.

Yes, and plenty of educators do. Some sub while they look for the right full-time role. Some hold a permanent job and pick up extra shifts. One thing to keep in mind: centers posting on Recruit are hiring for the long term. If you apply to one of their roles, be ready to commit to it.

Do I need to be certified or compliant already?

No. Educators come to us from all over. Some are just starting out, and plenty have been in the field for years and simply need a faster way to get working again. Either way, we tell you exactly what your state requires and walk you through it. Once your documentation is submitted and verified, you're ready to go.

How long does it take to start working?

It depends on your state and what you already have on file. Applying to permanent roles on Recruit takes minutes. Getting cleared to work substitute shifts takes longer, since state requirements like background checks, trainings, and a medical form have to be completed and verified first. If you already hold your credentials, that goes quickly.

What states is Tandem in?

Substitute shifts are available in Florida, Ohio, Illinois, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Kentucky. Recruit postings depend on where centers are hiring. See our locations page for a map of where we work.

Who decides whether I get the shift or the job?

For substitute shifts, Tandem reviews and confirms your request. You don't need to contact the center. For permanent roles on Recruit, the center reviews your application and reaches out directly.

Am I a Tandem employee?

No. When you work substitute shifts, you're working independently and taxes are not withheld from your pay. If you're hired permanently through Recruit, you're an employee of that center, not of Tandem.

What if I don't have reliable transportation?

We know that's one of the biggest barriers in this field, and we offer ride support for substitute shifts in some markets. Check the app for what's available near you.

Why does my profile matter so much?

Because it does more than describe you. Your credentials and verified experience determine which shifts you qualify for and what you get paid for them. Adding a certification can open up better-paying work. On Recruit, the same profile is what centers see when you apply.

What if I have a question that isn't here?

Our Help Center covers substitute work in detail, from requesting shifts to getting paid. You can also reach our support team through the app.

Find Work in Early Childhood | Tandem for Educators

One profile, permanently yours

Credentials, clearances, and work history in one place.

Credentials made clear

Requirements for your state, plain and clear — from subbing checklists to the credentials centers want to see on a permanent hire.

Real centers in your community

Local programs come to Tandem when they're actively looking for candidates like you.

Support and resources by our ECE community

A Resource Center built for you, with ECE training, tips, and tricks from people who know the field.

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Free licensed trainings

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CDA & renewal discounts

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Who Tandem is built for

Wherever you are, there's a path for you.

Educators come to Tandem from every corner of the field, at every career stage.

Retirees & students subbing part-time

Retired educators and students who want to work a few flexible, well-paid days a week, on their own terms.

Long-time educators, ready for a change

Experienced educators looking for their next role in an easier, more supported way, with credentials already verified.

Employed educators, staying ready

Educators happy where they are, keeping a profile current in the community in case the right opportunity comes along.

How It Works

Getting started is easy.

Step 1

Sign up

Create your free Tandem account and tell us about your experience and career goals.

Step 2

Choose your path

Decide whether you want flexible, daily-pay substitute shifts or a permanent role posted on Tandem Recruit.

Step 3

Build your profile

Add your credentials and experience. If you're subbing, we'll walk you through your state's compliance requirements.

Step 4

Start making an impact

Pick up shifts in the app, apply to long-term roles, and keep building your identity as a professional educator.

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One profile, permanently yours

Credentials made clear

Real centers in your community

Support and resources by our ECE community

Your resources

Local programs, ready to connect.

Wherever you are, there's a path for you.

Retirees & students subbing part-time

Long-time educators, ready for a change

Employed educators, staying ready

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Choose your path

Build your profile

Start making an impact

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