Upper School Chemistry & Physics Teacher

Upper School Chemistry & Physics Teacher Job Description

About Charleston Collegiate:

Charleston Collegiate School (CCS) is an independent, co-educational, non-sectarian day school serving students from PS through 12th grade. Situated on a picturesque 30-acre campus of playing fields, wooded trails, and an Outdoor Education Center, CCS is located on Johns Island, just 20 minutes from Charleston’s historic district and the beach resorts of Kiawah and Seabrook Islands.

Founded in 1970, CCS fosters a challenging and supportive learning community that recognizes, nurtures, and challenges its diverse student body. Organized into Lower School (PS-5), Middle School (6-8), and Upper School (9-12), the school’s mission is to empower students through a student-centered approach that emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and individuality. With approximately 410 students, CCS is Charleston’s only independent PS-12 school of its kind, providing a unique education grounded in the pillars of project-based learning, entrepreneurship, arts and creativity, and outdoor education. These foundational elements equip students to become lifelong learners and resilient leaders ready for 21st-century careers.

Job Description

The Upper School Chemistry & Physics Teacher at Charleston Collegiate School is responsible for facilitating a high-level, inquiry-based science program that transforms abstract physical laws into tangible, real-world applications. 

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement a rigorous Chemistry and Physics curriculum that integrates mathematical modeling and laboratory investigation, focusing on the development of analytical writing, critical observation, and scientific reasoning skills.


• Align coursework with SC Science standards (Chemistry and Physics), ensuring students master evidence-based argumentation and the skills to interpret complex data patterns and physical phenomena.


• Facilitate discussions on current scientific breakthroughs and ethical dilemmas, helping students connect classical laws to contemporary global challenges and diverse technological perspectives.


• Lead intensive instruction in scientific and technical writing, scaffolding the transition from basic lab reports to complex, analytical high school research that includes data-driven analysis and evidence-based conclusions aligned to grade-level standards.


• Employ a variety of assessment strategies, including laboratory practicums, project-based engineering challenges, and performance-based tasks to evaluate and support student learning and growth.


• Work closely with the Science team to vertically align the Science scope and sequence, ensuring a consistent climb in rigor from 6th through 12th grade.


• Use data-driven feedback to monitor student progress, balancing a high bar for achievement with the high care necessary for adolescent development.


• Serve as an Upper School Advisor, implementing a dedicated CCS-designed SEL curriculum that supports executive functioning, self-advocacy, and community belonging during the pivotal upper school years.

Qualification Requirements

• Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Physics, or Science Education (Master’s preferred).


• At least 3–5 years of teaching experience at the high school level, demonstrating a strong track record of success in laboratory-based sciences.


• Exceptional written and oral communication skills; ability to translate complex scientific concepts into accessible, engaging lessons.


• Proficiency in Google Suite and digital lab interfaces (e.g., Vernier, PhET, or data-logging software).


• A strong work ethic and the ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality and professional boundaries.


• A growth mindset with the willingness to lead student-life activities such as coaching, club leadership, or after-school programs.

Salary and Benefits

Charleston Collegiate School is committed to attracting and retaining the highest quality faculty and staff through a competitive compensation plan, retirement benefits, and full medical/dental coverage. Individual salary is negotiable depending on years of experience and educational background.

Non-Discrimination

Charleston Collegiate School values diversity and seeks talented students, faculty, and staff from different backgrounds. All employment decisions are made without regard to unlawful considerations of race, color, sex, gender, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, or any other basis prohibited by law