HaPPiHands is dedicated to providing high-quality, nurturing care for children while supporting their social, emotional, and intellectual growth. We are seeking an experienced, compassionate, and proactive Director to lead our team and work in partnership with the center's owner to ensure the smooth operation and continuous improvement of the center’s programs. As the Director, you will play a key role in shaping the vision of the center, managing daily operations, and fostering a safe and positive environment for children, families, and staff alike.
Position Overview
The Director of the Childcare Center is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the center’s operations, from program management and staff supervision to parent engagement and compliance with state and federal regulations. The Director will work closely with the owner to execute the center’s mission and vision while driving quality improvements, ensuring the wellbeing of children, and maintaining a positive, team-oriented culture.
Key Responsibilities
1. Leadership & Team Management:
- Lead and inspire a team of teachers, caregivers, and administrative staff.
- Foster a collaborative, positive work environment that encourages professional development and staff retention.
- Adhere to policies and communicate them to staff and parents
- Provide ongoing coaching, mentoring, and performance feedback to staff members.
- Assist in hiring and training of new employees.
2. Program Development & Curriculum Oversight
- Ensure the center’s educational programs and curriculum align with developmental best practices and the needs of the children.
- Regularly review and assess program effectiveness, implementing improvements where needed.
- Encourage creativity and innovation in lesson plans, activities, and learning environments.
3. Compliance & Licensing
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of state and federal regulations regarding childcare centers.
-Maintain and ensure all children and staff records are complete and up to date for five years
- Ensure the center is in full compliance with licensing requirements, health and safety standards, and other applicable laws.
- Prepare for and manage site visits, inspections, and audits.
4. Financial Management & Budgeting:
- Work with the owner to manage the center’s budget, ensuring financial stability.
- Oversee billing and tuition collection processes.
- Monitor expenses, identify cost-saving opportunities, and recommend financial strategies to the owner.
5. Parent Communication & Relationship Building
- Establish and maintain positive relationships with parents and families, providing clear communication regarding children’s progress, center policies, and upcoming events.
- Address any parent concerns in a timely and professional manner.
- Host parent meetings and conferences when needed create biannual workshops to engage and educate families.
6. Operational Oversight
- Manage the daily operations of the center, ensuring smooth, efficient functioning at all times including but not limited to reading mail, making phone calls, and filing documents
- Coordinate scheduling, staffing, and enrollment.
- Ensure the center’s facilities and equipment are well-maintained and safe for children and staff.
7. Strategic Planning & Growth
- Collaborate with the owner to define and implement the long-term vision for the center’s growth and development.
- Identify new opportunities for expansion, including program offerings, partnerships, or enrollment growth.
- Set short- and long-term goals for program development, financial stability, and customer satisfaction.
- Collaborate with staff to plan and implement fundraising events to identify funding opportunities
Qualifications
Education- AA or BA in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Business Administration, or a related field
Experience
-Minimum of 5 years of experience in a childcare or early childhood education setting, with at least 2 years in a leadership role (e.g., Assistant Director, Program Director).
- Proven experience managing a team, fostering a positive work culture, and maintaining a high level of employee satisfaction.
- Strong understanding of state and federal childcare regulations and licensing requirements.
Skills
- Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Strong problem-solving abilities and decision-making skills.
- Budgeting and financial management experience.
- Ability to build and maintain positive relationships with children, staff, and parents.
Certifications
- CPR/First Aid certification
- State-specific childcare director certification
- Background check clearance
Why Join Us?
Opportunity to play a key role in the growth and success of a growing and thriving childcare center.
- Supportive work environment with a focus on professional development and work-life balance.
- Chance to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and families in the community.
How to Apply
Please send your resume, cover letter, and references. We look forward to hearing from you!
