NIGHT SHIFT - Director, Early Childhood Education/Preschool

Summary

The Childcare Director is a visionary, hands-on leader responsible for cultivating a nurturing, high-quality early learning environment for children, families, and staff. This role requires an experienced professional who can work a 3PM-12AM shift, balance educational excellence with operational oversight, ensuring that the center not only meets but exceeds licensing, regulatory, and programmatic expectations. The Director sets the tone for a warm, inclusive culture, guides curriculum alignment and staff development, and ensures financial and administrative operations run seamlessly.

More than a manager, the Director is a strategic thinker and advocate—someone who understands the landscape of early childhood education, including subsidy programs and quality rating systems, and can build strong community partnerships to strengthen access and impact. This individual leads with integrity, champions diversity, and sees each challenge as an opportunity for innovation and growth. They are passionate about child development, driven by results, and equipped to lead a dynamic team in delivering meaningful, measurable outcomes for families.

Duties

• Manage day-to-day operations, including staffing, scheduling, enrollment, and curriculum implementation
• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal childcare licensing regulations
• Lead, mentor, and evaluate staff to promote professional growth and maintain a positive workplace culture
• Collaborate with families to support children’s developmental and educational goals
• Develop and monitor the program’s budget, billing, and administrative systems which includes the VA Department of Social Services Subsidy Program
• Lead quality improvement initiatives, including preparation for licensing visits and participation in VQB5 or other rating systems
• Foster partnerships with community agencies, schools, and support services to enhance program impact
• Maintain open, professional communication with staff, families, and stakeholders

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Business Administration, or a related field (Master’s preferred)
• Minimum of 3 years of leadership experience in a licensed childcare setting
• Strong knowledge of early childhood development, curriculum frameworks, and family engagement
• Proven skills in team leadership, communication, and conflict resolution
• Ability to manage multiple priorities with attention to detail and deadlines
• Knowledge in subsidy requirements and maintaining daily attendance for families

Nice To Haves

• Bilingual or multilingual skills to better serve diverse families and enhance community outreach
• Familiarity with childcare management software (e.g., Procare, Brightwheel, HiMama)
• Grant writing or fundraising experience to support program expansion and staff development
• Knowledge of trauma-informed practices and social-emotional learning frameworks
• Certification in Early Childhood Program Administration or similar leadership credentials
• Experience navigating VQB5 and LinkB5 systems
• A strong network of community partnerships or prior work with local education and health agencies
• Comfort in hosting family education nights, community events, or public presentations
• Visionary mindset with interest in curriculum innovation or branding initiatives

Benefits

• Paid professional development and continuing education opportunities
• Tuition reimbursement for relevant coursework or certifications
• Leadership coaching or mentorship programs
• Competitive salary with performance-based bonuses
• 401(k) or retirement plan
• Paid time off (vacation, sick leave, personal days)
• Paid holidays and flexible scheduling options
• Discounted or free childcare for employee’s children