Early Learning Center Assistant Director

Martha Obryan Center • Nashville, TN

3d • $55,000 - $60,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The Assistant Director supports the Director in overseeing the daily operations of the Early Learning Center. This role ensures that the program operates safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with TN DHS childcare licensing regulations while providing a high-quality, joyful early learning environment for children and families. The Assistant Director applies knowledge of child development and early childhood best practices to support classroom instruction, supervise staff, maintain compliance, and ensure strong communication with families. The Assistant Director regularly serves as a classroom teacher when needed to maintain appropriate staffing and provide consistent care and instruction for children.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in early childhood education, Child Development, Business Administration, or related field).
• Minimum of 2 years of teaching experience in early childhood education.
• Demonstrated ability to understand and implement DHS rules and regulations and maintain program compliance.
• Experience supervising staff and leading teams through transition and growth.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and relationship-building skills.
• Commitment to MOBC’s two-generational model and to deliver high-quality programming for children and families.
• Strong knowledge of child development, particularly for children and families experiencing poverty, and familiarity with Tennessee Child Care Licensing, NAEYC Accreditation standards, and Tennessee Department of Education Pre-K and Early Learning Development Standards.
• Demonstrated ability to build positive relationships and lead, plan, and direct the work of others.
• Exercises sound judgment in staffing decisions, safety concerns, and program operations. Strong organizational, time management, and attention to detail.
• Ability to analyze and interpret data to support program decisions and present findings effectively.
• Proficiency with computer applications, including word processing, spreadsheets, databases, email, and internet-based systems.
• High level of professional integrity, maintaining credibility through sincerity, honesty, discretion, and confidentiality with sensitive information.
• Ability to document information thoroughly, accurately, and in a timely manner with strong attention to detail.
• Demonstrated ability to exercise sound judgment, courtesy, and tact when interacting with staff, families, and the public.
• Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills, including the ability to work independently and remain effective under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Support the daily operations of the center to ensure classrooms are appropriately staffed, schedules run smoothly, and children are supervised at all times.
• Provides teacher coverage during staff absences, vacancies, breaks, or other staffing needs. When serving in a classroom, carry out the teaching, supervision, and documentation responsibilities of that assignment while maintaining required staff-to-child ratios.
• Serve as a point of contact for families in the Director’s absence, addressing questions or concerns with professionalism and care.
• Support the Director in supervising staff, conducting classroom observations, and providing coaching and feedback.
• Assist with performance evaluations, professional development, and implementation of Ensure the center operates in compliance with DHS licensing regulations, safety requirements, and Martha O’Bryan Center policies.
• Maintain organized documentation including attendance records, incident reports, safety logs, and licensing files.
• Assist the Director in preparing for DHS or DCS monitoring visits and addressing compliance findings.
• Conduct classroom walkthroughs to monitor instructional practices, supervision, and learning environments.
• Support teachers in addressing behavioral or developmental concerns and implementing appropriate strategies.
• Respond to incidents and arrange medical care for ill or injured children according to parent instructions and state regulations.
• Build strong partnerships with families, creating a welcoming and supportive environment that encourages parent involvement.
• Connect families to MOBC’s 2Gen services such as adult education, workforce development, and family success programming.

What This Job Offers

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