Childcare Center Director

Job Title: Childcare Center Director

FLSA Status: Full-Time/Exempt

Pay Rate: $40,000-44,000 Annually ($3,350-$3,670 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

· 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).