Childcare Center Director

Job Title: Childcare Center Director

FLSA Status: Full-Time/Exempt

Pay Rate: $48,000-58,000 Annually ($4,000-$4,833 monthly) (DOE)

Reports to: Childcare Director

POSITION SUMMARY

The Childcare Center Director – Early Learning Programs is responsible for managing daily operations and ensuring the delivery of high-quality, licensed early learning experiences for children ages 6 weeks through Pre-K. This position supports classroom staff, oversees curriculum implementation, and ensures a safe, nurturing environment that promotes school readiness, social-emotional growth, and alignment with YMCA values. The Childcare Center Director acts as an operational partner to the Childcare Director in the full-day childcare program.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of Early Learning classrooms to ensure safe, developmentally appropriate care.
• Hire, train, schedule, and evaluate teaching and support staff within DCFS guidelines.
• Support classroom teams in curriculum planning, documentation, and behavioral guidance.
• Support kitchen staff and assist in maintaining health department standards.
• Maintain licensing compliance, including safety procedures, documentation, and required inspections.
• Ensure cleanliness, supply management, and safety of classrooms and outdoor play areas.
• Cultivate strong relationships with families through regular communication, conferences, and engagement.
• Coordinate transportation and logistics for field trips and special events.
• Monitor developmental progress and coordinate with families and support services when needed.
• Collect and maintain data for assessments, licensing, and grant reporting as directed.
• Play a key role in the ISBE food grant; specifically in data collection and reporting.
• Serve as a role model and mentor for classroom staff in best practices and mission-driven care.
• Assist with marketing, enrollment tours, and community outreach for early childhood programs.
• Participate in YMCA events and staff development opportunities.

STRATEGIC PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES

Program Quality & Compliance

• Deliver high-quality early learning aligned with DCFS, Y-USA, and early childhood standards.
• Maintain strong DCFS compliance and positive relationships with licensing officials.

Staff Development & Culture

• Build a team of nurturing, skilled educators who feel supported and empowered.
• Lead regular training and coaching to support instructional quality and consistency.

Family Engagement & Outcomes

• Strengthen family partnerships and feedback loops to promote positive developmental outcomes.
• Improve retention and satisfaction through communication and care alignment with family needs.

LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES

• Mission Advancement: Models inclusive care and fosters development of the whole child.
• Collaboration: Builds a culture of trust and respect with staff and families.
• Operational Effectiveness: Ensures classroom quality, safety, and daily efficiency.
• Personal Growth: Pursues professional growth and fosters learning among others.

Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or related field required.
• 2+ years of supervisory experience in a DCFS-licensed childcare setting.
• Meets all DCFS licensing requirements including background checks, TB testing, and qualifications.
• Familiarity with Illinois Early Learning Guidelines and Gateways to Opportunity preferred.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks, coach educators, and communicate effectively with families.
• CPR, First Aid, and Child Abuse Prevention certification (or within 30 days).
• Flexibility to work hours that support program coverage, family needs, and licensing ratios.

Performance Indicators

• Maintain 90%+ classroom enrollment and increase infant/toddler enrollment by 5% annually.
• Complete monthly coaching check-ins and ensure 100% of staff meet licensing and training benchmarks.
• Host quarterly family engagement events and achieve 90%+ satisfaction scores.
• Build at least 2 early childhood community partnerships annually (e.g., libraries, health providers).