Daycare Director

Austin Play Garden is a small, Reggio Emilia-inspired preschool serving children ages 3 months to 5 years. We are looking for an experienced, organized, and self-motivated School Director who is passionate about early childhood education and thrives in a leadership role.

This position is ideal for someone who naturally takes initiative, enjoys creating systems, supports teachers, communicates professionally with families, and can confidently oversee the daily operations of a small school.

This role is for you if you...

• Take ownership without needing to be told what to do.
• Notice problems and solve them before they become bigger issues.
• Love organization, systems, and keeping things running smoothly.
• Communicate professionally and confidently with families and staff.
• Stay calm under pressure and make thoughtful decisions.
• Lead by example and are willing to jump into classrooms whenever needed.
• Enjoy supporting and coaching teachers.
• Value accountability, integrity, and teamwork.

Primary ResponsibilitiesSchool Leadership

• Oversee daily school operations when the owner is not present.
• Make sound decisions independently.
• Maintain a calm, professional, and positive school culture.
• Support teachers throughout the day and during aftercare.
• Ensure classrooms remain appropriately staffed and ratios are maintained.

Teacher Support

• Check in with every classroom daily.
• Step into classrooms when additional support is needed.
• Help manage challenging behaviors using Conscious Discipline principles.
• Model professionalism and positive communication.
• Build trust while maintaining appropriate leadership boundaries.

Administrative Responsibilities

• Respond promptly to parent emails and phone calls.
• Maintain licensing paperwork and required documentation.
• Organize student files and school records.
• Help coordinate tours, enrollment, and classroom transitions.
• Maintain school calendars and communication.

Operations

• Keep the school organized, clean, and running efficiently.
• Monitor classroom supplies and place orders as needed.
• Identify maintenance or safety concerns.
• Complete projects without being asked.
• Help improve systems and processes.

Schedule

• Monday–Friday
• Approximately 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Ability to stay later when needed to support school operations or close the school.
• 40 paid days off a year

Qualifications

• Directors License or qualifications to become one
• Previous leadership experience in an early childhood setting preferred.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent judgment and problem-solving skills.
• Self-starter with exceptional follow-through.
• Comfortable making decisions independently.
• Experience working with young children.

Our Ideal Candidate

We're looking for someone who understands that leadership is about service.

The best candidate will spend their day moving throughout the school, supporting teachers, interacting with children, communicating with families, solving problems, and ensuring everything runs smoothly. They won't wait to be asked what needs to be done, they'll notice it and take initiative.

If you're looking for a position where you can make a meaningful impact on children, families, and teachers while helping lead a close-knit school community, we'd love to hear from you.

Benefits:

• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Work Location: In person

Pay: $60,000.00 - $70,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Childcare
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Work Location: In person