Assistant Director/Lead Teacher

Job Description

Assistant Director
Little Lambs Academy – Arlington, VA
Job Summary
Little Lambs Academy is seeking a passionate, organized, and experienced Assistant Director to support the daily operations of our early childhood education center. The ideal candidate is committed to providing a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate environment for children while assisting the Center Director in maintaining high-quality educational standards and operational excellence.
As Assistant Director, you will help oversee staff management, curriculum implementation, parent relations, licensing compliance, and classroom support. This role requires strong leadership skills, effective communication, and a genuine passion for working with children and families in a collaborative educational setting.
Responsibilities
Assist the Center Director in managing the daily operations of the academy, including staffing, scheduling, enrollment, and program quality.
Support teachers in implementing developmentally appropriate lesson plans and curriculum aligned with early childhood developmental milestones.
Mentor and coach teaching staff to promote a positive, effective, and supportive learning environment.
Ensure compliance with all state licensing regulations, health and safety policies, and center procedures.
Maintain accurate records for children, staff, attendance, incident reports, and developmental assessments.
Foster positive relationships with parents, staff, and community partners through professional communication and customer service.
Assist with classroom management strategies, behavior guidance, and conflict resolution using positive reinforcement techniques.
Collaborate with specialists such as speech therapists, behavioral therapists, and early intervention professionals when needed.
Utilize educational technology and learning tools to support classroom engagement and administrative operations.
Support marketing initiatives, enrollment growth, accounts receivable, and family retention efforts.
Assist with facility management and ensure classrooms remain safe, clean, and organized.
Serve in various roles as needed, including classroom support and other operational duties.
Promote an inclusive environment that supports children of all developmental abilities and backgrounds.
Qualifications
CDA, Associate’s Degree, or Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Psychology, or a related field preferred.
Minimum of one year of experience as an Assistant Director, Lead Teacher, or leadership role in a licensed child care center.
Strong leadership, organizational, multitasking, and problem-solving skills.
Experience with curriculum development, classroom management, and staff supervision.
Knowledge of child development principles, behavior management strategies, and early childhood education best practices.
Familiarity with STEAM curriculum, Montessori methods, and NAEYC standards is preferred.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English; bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply.
Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office programs.
Ability to maintain professionalism and confidentiality at all times.
Ability to lift up to 40 pounds and work both indoors and outdoors as needed.
Must possess a positive, friendly, and team-oriented attitude with a genuine passion for working with children and families.
Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
Requirements
High School Diploma or GED required.
Associate's or Bachelor's degree in ECE, Psychology, or a related field required.
Background check and CPS clearance required prior to employment.
Must be able to speak, read, and understand English fluently.
Clean driving record preferred.
Benefits
Paid Time Off and Vacation
Professional Development Opportunities
Supportive Team Environment
Job Type
Full-time
Work Location
In-person — Arlington, VA