Early Childhood Director

Boys & Girls Club of Clifton•Clifton, NJ

11d•$65,000 - $75,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Boys & Girls Club of Clifton (BGCC) serves thousands of young people each year through safe, high-quality programs that support Academic Success, Good Character & Citizenship, and Healthy Lifestyles. The Early Childhood Education Department (ECED) includes: Gingerbread House Day Care – Full-day program KinderKare – For children currently enrolled in kindergarten CELA A/B/S – Before and After School programs for children enrolled in Clifton Public Schools preschool These programs provide a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for children ages 2.5–4, grounded in developmentally appropriate practice and positive youth development. The Early Childhood Director (ECD) provides overall leadership, coordination, and management of BGCC’s Early Childhood Education Department. The ECD leads daily operations of Gingerbread House, KinderKare, and CELA A/B/S programs; manages and develops staff; ensures regulatory compliance; oversees high-quality curriculum and care; builds strong relationships with families and community partners; and supports the strategic growth of early childhood programs. The ECD is both a strategic leader and a hands-on presence in classrooms and program spaces.

Requirements

Meets all NJDCF requirements for a center director
Experience in Early Childhood or Childcare settings with increasing responsibility
Experience supervising or training staff
Strong understanding of Early Childhood Development and positive behavior guidance
Effective communication and relationship-building skills
Ability to maintain boundaries and confidentiality
Ability to pass all required background checks and health clearances
Valid driver’s license
Standing, walking, occasional running/jogging, leaning, bending, and sitting. Must be able to lift 30 lbs

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree or higher in Early Childhood Education or related field
Director, Assistant Director, or Lead Teacher experience in a licensed center
Familiarity with Creative Curriculum or similar play-based curricula
Experience with diverse children and families, including special needs
Bilingual or multilingual (especially English/Spanish)

Responsibilities

Program Leadership, Curriculum & Quality: Oversee daily operations of all ECED programs, ensuring smooth schedules, routines, and developmentally appropriate practices. Implement, assess, and continuously improve a high-quality, play-based curriculum aligned with early childhood best practices and BGCC youth development outcomes. Conduct regular classroom observations and promote trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and inclusive learning environments.
Licensing, Compliance & Documentation: Ensure full compliance with NJDCF, NJDOH, and all state and local childcare licensing regulations. Maintain accurate child and staff records, attendance, incident reports, and required documentation. Stay current on licensing requirements and ensure staff follow all regulations, including mandated reporting.
Staff Management, Coaching & Culture: Recruit, onboard, supervise, evaluate, and schedule staff to maintain proper ratios and continuity of care. Provide ongoing coaching, professional development, and support to foster a collaborative, growth-oriented culture. Model professionalism, integrity, and leadership for staff, children, and families.
Family, School & Community Partnerships: Build strong, trusting relationships with families through clear communication, conferences, and engagement opportunities. Collaborate with Clifton Public Schools and community partners to support student transitions and strengthen program impact.
Operations, Budget & Cross-Functional Collaboration: Ensure ECED spaces are safe, clean, welcoming, and well-equipped for high-quality care and instruction. Manage budgets, vendors, and resources in collaboration with Club leadership and cross-functional teams.
Safety, Crisis Response & Professional Conduct: Champion safety, emergency preparedness, confidentiality, and proper facility maintenance. Effectively problem-solve, manage crises, and complete all required training and professional development.