Assistant Director - Full Time - Early Learning & Care

Greater Philadelphia YMCA • Phoenixville, PA

5d

About The Position

The Assistant Director leads the Early Learning and Care program and ensures consistent implementation of quality programming that supports each child’s unique needs in a safe, enriching environment. The role maintains program quality in accordance with YMCA policies, state licensing requirements, Quality Rating System standards, and ACA policies and guidelines. The Assistant Director supervises staff assigned to the site, coordinates developmentally appropriate learning experiences, communicates with families, and prepares the program for inspections and quality assessments. Success is measured in part by maintaining enrollment levels.

Requirements

• Provide documentation of a degree from an accredited college or university in education or a human-services-related field, as defined by state licensing regulations.
• Verify at least two years (2,500 hours) of childcare experience.

Responsibilities

• Read and follow YMCA policies, state licensing regulations, and Quality Rating System standards, including applicable standards such as NAEYC, Keystone STARS, Grow NJ Kids, and ACA.
• Supervise children to ensure their safety, remaining able to identify, see, hear, direct, and assist children in the assigned group.
• Adhere to state-established group size and staff-to-child ratios.
• Accurately maintain attendance records for children in care.
• Communicate promptly and effectively with parents and guardians about children’s program experiences and progress, verbally and in writing.
• Maintain confidentiality and demonstrate sensitivity and patience.
• Provide quality adult-child interactions through engagement, positive feedback, encouragement, and open-ended questions.
• Follow age-appropriate verbal interaction guidelines.
• Attend and renew required training according to the training plan and applicable policies and standards, including at least six hours of childcare-related training annually.
• Maintain environments that support children’s self-esteem and use positive reinforcement to redirect behavior.
• Conduct and record weekly child observations, including observations related to behavioral concerns or development that may require early intervention with parents or guardians.
• Coordinate, plan, and implement daily child-centered, developmentally appropriate learning experiences in accordance with YMCA, licensing, and quality standards.
• Adapt programming where possible to meet individual children’s needs.
• Operate the program in accordance with YMCA policies, state licensing regulations, and Quality Rating System standards and initiatives, and prepare for annual state inspections and quality assessments.
• Lead by example and maintain professionalism and accountability.
• Supervise staff assigned to the site.
• Prepare and distribute current, quality, brand-compliant written communications for parents and guardians, such as family board materials, monthly newsletters, program updates, and announcements.
• Submit and manage monthly lesson plans, weekly and specialized reports, and supply requests by their deadlines.
• Plan and manage time and resources effectively.
• Maintain enrollment levels.

Benefits

• Free YMCA membership with access to all branches.
• 50% discount on programming, including swimming lessons, childcare programs, before- and after-care, day camp, and overnight camp.
• Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, and tuition reimbursement.
• Team support and opportunities to learn and grow.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level