Early Learning Center Director
About The Position
Lead. Inspire. Make a Lasting Impact. At the YMCA, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. As a leading nonprofit dedicated to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, we’re looking for a passionate and experienced Early Learning Center Director to lead one of our vibrant early learning centers. If you’re an inspiring leader who loves building strong teams, supporting families, and creating high-quality early childhood experiences, this is your opportunity to make a meaningful difference every day. As the Early Learning Center Director, you’ll serve as the heart of your center — guiding daily operations, nurturing staff, and ensuring every child receives safe, enriching, and developmentally appropriate care.
Requirements
- Minimum 3 years of experience working with youth ages birth–five
- Minimum 2 years of supervisory experience, including paid or volunteer roles
- Bachelor’s degree in youth development, child development, education, recreation, outdoor education, or a related field
- Educational and experience qualifications established by Department of Child Youth and Families (DCYF)
- Skills in budgeting, enrollment management, and program evaluation
- Proven success supervising, mentoring, and motivating diverse teams
- Strong understanding of positive youth development principles
- Excellent communication skills with youth and adults
- Ability to manage multiple projects, deadlines, and teams effectively
- Ability to relate to diverse populations across social and economic backgrounds
- Prior leadership experience as a classroom lead, assistant director, or center director
Responsibilities
- Direct and oversee daily early learning center operations
- Manage scheduling, purchasing, meal coordination, and family communications
- Ensure full compliance with state, county, and local licensing regulations
- Uphold YMCA safety standards and youth protection policies
- Develop and manage program budgets to meet fiscal goals
- Monitor program statistics and participation to evaluate impact
- Support billing processes (CACFP, DCYF WCCC, and other third-party payers)
- Assess and expand programs to meet evolving community needs
- Recruit, hire, train, and develop high-quality staff and volunteers
- Ensure all certifications remain current
- Provide performance feedback and cultivate a motivated, mission-driven team
- Build strong, collaborative relationships with families and school district partners
- Ensure programs are culturally relevant, inclusive, and welcoming
- Assist with marketing, outreach, and fundraising efforts
- Foster a center environment rooted in trust, safety, and belonging
Benefits
- Opportunities for professional growth and development
- The ability to shape inclusive programs that empower children and families
Stand Out From the Crowd
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Manager
