Assistant Director of Child Safety & Compliance

The Gardner School•Louisville, KY

22d•$42,500 - $52,500•Onsite

About The Position

The Child Safety & Compliance Lead serves as the on-site subject matter expert responsible for ensuring consistent implementation of state licensing requirements and The Gardner School (TGS) safety standards. This role provides structured observation, individualized guidance, and targeted training to strengthen supervision practices, child protection protocols, and overall regulatory compliance. Through proactive monitoring and partnership with school leadership, the Child Safety & Compliance Lead helps ensure that safety expectations are clearly understood, consistently applied, and embedded in daily practice. The hiring range for this position is $42,500–$52,500 annually, based on experience, credentials, and demonstrated expertise in licensing compliance and early childhood leadership. We offer a comprehensive benefits package, which may include: Medical, dental, and vision insurance. 401(k) with company match. Paid time off and holidays. Professional development and training. Tuition discount for eligible employees. Career growth opportunities within a growing, multi-state organization.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Education, or related field (or equivalent combination of education and experience as permitted by state licensing regulations)
Minimum 5 years of experience in a licensed early childhood setting
Demonstrated knowledge of state childcare licensing regulations including experience preparing for or leading licensing inspections
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive matters with discretion.
Experience serving as an Assistant Director in an early childhood program.
Strong observational skills and attention to detail
Ability to interpret policy and apply it consistently
Ability to provide constructive feedback in a professional and respectful manner
High emotional intelligence and professional composure
Strong documentation and organizational skills
Ability to analyze trends and identify root causes of compliance gaps
Ability to move throughout the school building and outdoor play areas regularly throughout the day
Ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time
Ability to bend, kneel, crouch, sit on the floor, and rise from the floor as needed
Ability to lift and carry up to 40 pounds occasionally
Ability to visually and auditorily monitor classroom and outdoor environments
Ability to respond quickly in emergency situations

Responsibilities

Conduct structured classroom, playground, and transition observations.
Assess and document adherence to state licensing requirements and TGS safety policies.
Monitor activities including (but not limited to) active supervision practices, ratio compliance, and child protection protocols.
Provide one-on-one guidance to teachers to ensure alignment with supervision and safety expectations.
Ensure 100% of teachers are supported and aligned to standards within the first 30 days of implementation.
Document observations, guidance conversations, and progress toward compliance benchmarks.
Identify common opportunity areas based on observation trends.
Assist in developing and delivering targeted training sessions to address recurring gaps.
Support implementation of refresher trainings on child protection, supervision, and health and safety practices.
Monitor ongoing adherence to state licensing and TGS standards.
Support preparation for licensing visits and follow-up on feedback.
Review documentation practices to ensure accuracy and completeness.
Escalate compliance concerns as appropriate.
Maintain accurate records of observations, coaching provided, and progress toward compliance benchmarks.
Provide regular updates regarding trends and potential risk areas.
Contribute to proactive planning to prevent licensing violations.