CENTER DIRECTOR

Job Description

About the Role,
We are seeking an experienced, visionary, and compassionate Center Director to lead our early learning community. In this role, you will oversee daily center operations, maintain state licensing compliance, support a team of passionate educators, and cultivate a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for our children and families. As the operational and pedagogical anchor of our center, you will balance administrative excellence with an inspiring classroom presence.

Key Responsibilities
1. Licensing, Health & Safety Compliance Ensure strict adherence to DCYF Child Care Licensing Standards (WAC 110-300) and local health, sanitation, and building codes. Oversee required classroom staff-to-child ratios, group sizes, and continuous supervision protocols at all times. Maintain complete and audited records for children (immunizations, emergency cards, allergies) and staff (MERIT registry, background checks, training logs). Lead and document monthly emergency drills (fire, earthquake, lockdown) and ensure safety inspection readiness.
2. Staff Leadership, Hiring & CultureRecruit, interview, onboard, and mentor qualified lead teachers, assistants, and support staff. Foster a positive, collaborative workplace culture that promotes staff retention, open feedback, and professional growth. Conduct regular classroom observations, performance evaluations, and team meetings. Coordinate required pre-service and in-service training schedules (e.g., STARS/MERIT hours, Child Care Basics, CPR/First Aid).
3. Curriculum & Educational Quality Supervise the planning and execution of developmentally appropriate, play-based, and child-centered curricula across all age rooms (Infants, Toddlers, Preschool/Pre-K).Ensure classrooms are equipped with engaging, age-appropriate educational supplies and clean, stimulating learning centers. Support teachers in observing child development milestones, conducting assessments, and organizing parent-teacher conferences.
4. Family Engagement & Enrollment Management Serve as the welcoming face of the center: conduct engaging tours, communicate center philosophy, and convert inquiries into active enrollments. Maintain transparent, proactive communication with enrolled parents via center communication apps (e.g., Brightwheel, Tadpoles), newsletters, and direct meetings. Address parent concerns, behavioral support plans, and individual family needs with empathy and professionalism.
5. Business & Facility Administration Oversee daily billing, tuition collections, attendance tracking, and supply budgets. Manage staff scheduling, sub coverage, and time-tracking to balance payroll efficiency with mandatory classroom ratios. Oversee physical facility maintenance, classroom sanitation standards, and playground safety inspections.

Qualifications & Experience Education: Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE), Child Development, or related field; or possession of a State ECE Certificate (47+ credits). Experience: Minimum of 2–3 years of classroom teaching experience in licensed early learning, plus at least 1–2 years of proven administrative leadership as a Center Director, Assistant Director, or Program Supervisor .Registry & Background: Active Washington State MERIT Registry Account. Cleared portable DCYF background check with fingerprinting prior to start date. Certifications: Pediatric CPR / First Aid & Bloodborne Pathogens certification (hands-on verified). Negative TB test result within the required state window. Food Worker Card (or ability to obtain prior to start). Completed Child Care Basics (CCB) and Enhancing Quality of Early Learning (EQEL) or equivalent. Core Competencies: Strong interpersonal communication, conflict-resolution skills, tech proficiency with childcare management software, and crisis-calm leadership. What We Offer Competitive Salary: $65,000 – $80,000/year, Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrued vacation, sick leave, and paid federal/center holidays. Childcare Discount: Substantial employee tuition discount for enrolled dependents. Professional Development: Paid continuing education credits, MERIT training reimbursement, and leadership conference support. Health & Wellness Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k) .