Early Childhood Center Director

Kido USA•Chicago, IL

3d•$70,000 - $76,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Center Director is responsible for the overall leadership, management, and success of the preschool. This role oversees school operations, enrollment, financial performance, regulatory compliance, curriculum implementation, and staff development while ensuring every child receives exceptional care and education. As the leader of the school, you will build a positive culture for teachers, develop strong partnerships with families, and create an engaging learning environment where children and staff can thrive.

Requirements

Must meet all qualifications for Center Director as outlined in Illinois Child Care Licensing Standards (407).
Previous experience as a Preschool Director, Child Care Center Director, Assistant Director, or School Leader.
Strong knowledge of Illinois child care licensing regulations.
Experience leading teams in an early childhood education environment.
Demonstrated success with enrollment growth, family engagement, and staff development.
Strong financial and operational management skills.
Excellent leadership, communication, and relationship-building abilities.
Applicants must be able to: Hear conversational speech with or without accommodation.
Read printed materials with or without corrective lenses.
Speak clearly and effectively.
Lift and carry children or other items weighing up to 50 pounds.
Bend, kneel, stoop, and work at child level throughout the day.
Push, pull, and reach overhead.
Assist with emergency evacuations and respond quickly during emergency situations.
Successfully completing an enhanced fingerprint-based background check and all required pre-employment screenings.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Education, Business, or a related field preferred.

Responsibilities

Lead, coach, and develop teachers and administrative staff while fostering a positive, high-performing school culture.
Oversee all daily school operations to ensure exceptional care, education, and customer service.
Build strong relationships with families and create an outstanding parent experience.
Drive enrollment growth through tours, community outreach, and family engagement initiatives.
Manage the school's budget, financial performance, and operational goals.
Ensure compliance with Illinois DCFS licensing (407), health and safety regulations, and company policies.
Partner with Kido's Curriculum Team to ensure high-quality curriculum implementation and classroom excellence.
Recruit, hire, onboard, and retain exceptional educators and school staff.
Maintain a safe, organized, and well-resourced learning environment for children and employees.
Represent Kido within the community while collaborating with corporate leadership to support continuous improvement and school success.