Assistant Director

Job Purpose:

The Assistant Director works closely with the Center Director to ensure smooth, daily operations of the childcare center. This role provides hands-on leadership in classrooms, assists with staff supervision, maintains compliance with licensing standards and supports family relationships. The Assistant Director acts as the Director's right hand, stepping into lead when the Director is unavailable and helping to build a consistent, supportive and high-quality learning environment.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Daily Operations & Support

• Assist in opening and/or closing the center as scheduled.
• Monitor classroom coverage and staff-to-child ratios throughout the day.
• Respond to teacher requests for support and fill in where needed.

2. Staff Support & Supervision

• Provide day-to-day guidance, coaching and feedback to staff.
• Conduct classroom walk-throughs to ensure instructional quality and safety.
• Help manage staff schedules, breaks and attendance.

3. Compliance & Documentation

• Support the Director in maintaining up-to-date licensing files, child records, and incident reports.
• Ensure daily logs, sign in sheets, meal counts and other compliance forms are completed.
• Participate in heath inspections, fire drills and emergency preparedness efforts. Communicate effectively with parents, staff and school personnel as needed.

4. Parent & Family Communication

• Greet families during drop-off and pick-up; build rapport and answer questions.
• Address minor concerns or issues and escalate to the Director as appropriate.
• Assist with planning and execution of family engagement activities and events.

5. Training & Professional Development

• Assist in onboarding new hires and helping them acclimate to center culture and expectations.
• Lead or co-lead in service training, workshops and staff development sessions.
• Serve as a model of professionalism and positivity in all interactions

6. Leadership & Decision-Making

• Take initiative in solving daily challenges and maintaining a calm, supportive environment.
• Serve as acting Director in the absence of the Director, ensuring all responsibilities are maintained.
• Uphold confidentiality, professionalism and ethical conduct at all times.

Qualifications:

• Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education or related field required.
• Bachelor's degree preferred
• Minimum of 2-3 years experience in an early childhood setting with increasing leadership responsibilities
• CPR/First Aid Certification (or completion within 30 days of hire)
• Familiarity with state childcare licensing requirements and CACFP (if applicable)

Skills & Characteristics:

• Strong leadership and team-building skills
• Approachable, professional and consistent
• Detail-oriented with strong follow-through
• Comfortable multitasking in a fast-paced environment
• High emotional intelligence and positive attitude

Work Schedule:

• Full-time, Monday–Friday, hours of operation 6:00 am to 7:00 pm. Shifts are based on center's needs. Occasional after-hours availability may be required for meetings or special events. Salary range: $17-19 per hour

Pay: $17.00 - $19.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount

Work Location: In person