Child Care Director

Company Overview
The YMCA is more than a job; it’s a career! The Y has a wide-reaching system of training and development career opportunities. With more than 160 years of experience, the Harrisburg Area YMCA knows that we achieve our mission one person at a time, carried out in the hearts and hands of each caring and skillful staff member.

Overview
We are seeking an energetic and dedicated Child Care Director to lead our school-age education programs and childcare services at the West Shore YMCA. In this vital role, you will oversee daily operations, ensure compliance with safety and licensing standards, and foster a nurturing environment for children of all ages. Your leadership will inspire staff, engage families, and promote the developmental growth of every child in our care. Join us to make a positive impact on young lives while advancing your career in a supportive community setting!

Responsibilities

• Direct the daily operations of assigned Child Care programs, ensuring compliance with YMCA policies, PA DHS licensing regulations, and Keystone STARS guidelines.
• Implement high-quality, developmentally appropriate curriculum and enrichment opportunities that promote social, emotional, physical, and academic growth.
• Conduct regular evaluations to ensure safety, quality, and consistency across locations.
• Recruit, train, supervise, and support teaching staff.
• Provide ongoing professional development and coaching to foster a culture of excellence, accountability, and engagement.
• Maintain appropriate staffing levels and manage scheduling in alignment with enrollment and budget.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for families; respond to concerns with professionalism and care.
• Build and maintain strong partnerships with internal YMCA departments.
• Promote the YMCA as a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for youth and families.
• Assist in developing and managing program budgets in alignment with enrollment targets and revenue goals. Maintain accurate records, including attendance, incident reports, licensing documentation, and evaluations. Ensure timely and accurate billing and subsidy processing in coordination with the YMCA’s finance team.
• Contribute to the planning and implementation of strategies to increase enrollment and retention in youth programs. Collaborate with the Director of Youth Development and Harrisburg Area YMCA Child Care Leadership on strategic initiatives.
• Ensure all programs align with the Y’s cause-driven mission and Youth Development Best Practices.

Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in education, child development, recreation management, human services, or a related field (required).
• Minimum of 2–4 years of supervisory experience in licensed child care, youth programming, or camp leadership (required).
• Strong knowledge of Pennsylvania DHS regulations, Keystone STARS standards, and youth development principles.
• Ability to lead and inspire a diverse team with empathy, accountability, and vision.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and conflict-resolution skills.
• CPR, First Aid, Child Abuse Clearances, FBI Fingerprinting, and NSOR Clearance (or ability to obtain prior to employment).

Join our team to lead with passion in creating enriching environments where children thrive!

Pay: $45,000.00 - $50,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person