Field Educational Director

Imagine Early Learning Centers • Bronx, NY

12d • Onsite

About The Position

Imagine Early Learning Centers is seeking a passionate, dynamic New York State-certified Birth–Grade 2 Director for a full-time role supporting 11 full-day educational childcare centers across Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx. The centers serve children from approximately 2 months to 5 years old, including Department of Education Pre-K For All 3K and 4K programs. The Field Educational Director travels among centers, mentors center teams, provides coverage during Director absences, supports engaging center programming, and collaborates with upper-level management on company-wide initiatives.

The role includes championing the employee-ownership culture, maintaining regulatory and program quality, supporting curriculum development and staff training, building relationships with families, and contributing to recruitment and community outreach. The Director works closely with experienced early-childhood leaders who provide mentorship and professional support. The position combines classroom involvement with educational administration and requires active participation in early-learning activities.

Requirements

• Master's degree and New York State Teacher Certification in Early Childhood Education (Birth–Grade 2), Elementary Education, or Special Education.
• At least 1 year of leadership or supervisory experience, such as Program Director, Assistant Director, Program Coordinator, or Supervising Lead Teacher.
• At least 3 years of experience as an early childhood educator.
• New York State Teacher Certification Birth–2 years is required or must be actively in progress.

Nice To Haves

• Strong familiarity with Developmentally Appropriate Practice and NAEYC standards.
• Previous experience in NYC Department of Education Pre-K For All programs.

Responsibilities

• Lead and participate in designing and delivering dynamic, developmentally appropriate curriculum.
• Uphold continuous compliance with DOH licensing, DOE guidelines, and NAEYC principles.
• Foster warm, open, and supportive communication with families, staff members, and advisory boards.
• Use strong written communication to inform and inspire the community.
• Travel among centers in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx.
• Mentor center teams and provide coverage during Director absences.
• Support creative curriculum development, implementation, and collaborative staff training.
• Champion the ESOP program and cultivate an employee-ownership culture.
• Build family relationships and support recruitment, community outreach, and enrollment.
• Participate in active early-learning activities, including lifting children, pushing strollers or buggies, sitting at floor level, and leading outdoor activities year-round.

Benefits

• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) retirement benefit at no cost to eligible team members.
• Full-time employees accrue 22 vacation days and 7 sick days annually.
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and their families.
• Prudential life and AD&D insurance equal to one times annual salary, at no cost.
• Commuter benefits for transit and parking.
• Voluntary short-term disability, accident, and hospital insurance.
• Tuition reimbursement and degree incentive reward.
• Educational support programs.
• Mental health support including 3 fully covered therapy visits per year.
• Childcare discount where available.
• Ongoing professional development and career advancement paths.
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• $500 taxable sign-on bonus paid after 3 months of successful employment.

What This Job Offers

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