Associate Executive Director for Early Learning Programs

Healthy Kids Programs • Highland Falls, NY

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Healthy Kids is seeking an Associate Executive Director to streamline daily operations across eight Early Learning Centers, each with one to four classrooms, in New York’s Hudson Valley and Capital Regions. The position is based at the Union Avenue office in New Windsor, New York, and reports to the CEO. The Associate Executive Director will work directly with the CEO to support program quality, operational efficiency, staff development, compliance, enrollment, and coordination across departments. The role requires regular communication throughout the organization, sound problem-solving, and the ability to balance big-picture objectives with attention to detail.

The position oversees curriculum development and implementation for toddler and preschool programs, staff training and observations, operational performance tracking, center operations, schedules, payroll time and attendance approvals, budgets and expenses, and compliance with Office of Children and Family Services regulations. The Associate Executive Director also works with staff and families, supports enrollment and family engagement, coordinates with internal departments, and helps improve operational procedures and the experience of children and families. Travel is required, and other responsibilities may be assigned by the CEO.

Requirements

• Associate degree in Early Childhood Education or equivalent is preferred.
• Experience with curriculum development and creating lesson plans.
• Two years of experience working with children under age five; experience in a licensed childcare facility is preferred.
• Three to five years of supervisory experience.
• One year of experience managing staff in a childcare setting, with business management experience.
• Superior administrative and supervisory skills; experience in a consumer-driven environment is preferred.
• Excellent customer service and parent communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work as part of a team and help create a team-oriented work environment.
• Commitment to delivering excellent programs and managing personnel expenses.
• Must pass a full background check, including fingerprinting and reference check.
• Must be medically fit to perform job duties.
• Professional, reliable, prompt, warm, friendly, caring, and upbeat demeanor.
• Excellent time management skills.

Nice To Haves

• Associate degree in Early Childhood Education or equivalent.
• Experience working with children under age five in a licensed childcare facility.
• Familiarity with OCFS regulations.
• Supervisory experience in a consumer-driven environment.

Responsibilities

• Develop, adapt, and implement toddler and preschool curricula across the organization.
• Lead trainings and ongoing workshops on curriculum development and instructional practice.
• Conduct quarterly observations to ensure program staff follow daily schedules and curricula.
• Develop, adapt, train, and observe staff on caregiver-child interactions.
• Track and report on operational performance.
• Conduct monthly staff meetings to share information and program updates.
• Manage day-to-day operations and oversee the Early Learning Centers team, including assigning tasks.
• Interact with staff and families, answer questions, and resolve issues.
• Onboard and train new employees to ensure adherence to standard operating procedures.
• Implement orientation procedures, staff development, ongoing technical assistance, and training.
• Use Paylocity to monitor and approve assigned employees’ time and attendance for biweekly payroll.
• Continuously monitor and implement staff schedules based on program needs, making changes to operate in a fiscally responsible manner.
• Ensure operations comply with Office of Children and Family Services regulations.
• Review handbooks and recommend procedures to improve day-to-day operational efficiency.
• Assist with implementing new processes and procedures.
• Identify ways to improve children’s and families’ experiences.
• Manage program inquiries and facility tours to increase enrollment.
• Work with the Marketing team to develop grassroots marketing strategies.
• Order supplies and manage inventory in coordination with purchasing and finance departments and within budget.
• Coordinate with Registration, Marketing, Recruiting, Buildings and Grounds, Finance, and Human Resources to support effective work production.
• Monitor expenses and budgets in line with the finance department.
• Implement family engagement opportunities.
• Promote positive morale and continuous learning, support staff retention, and reinforce positive partnerships.
• Perform other responsibilities as assigned by the CEO.

Benefits

• Employer-paid childcare for children enrolled in the program on the days the employee works.
• Medical, vision, and dental insurance.
• AFLAC supplemental plans.
• 401(k) for eligible employees.
• Paid holidays.
• Paid time off (PTO).
• Paid sick time off.
• On-demand pay.
• Career development and growth opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Associate degree