Director, Infant Centre

Neeginan Education, Training and Employment Services, Inc. (NETES); Winnipeg; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A community-focused education and training organization in Winnipeg is seeking an experienced Director to lead its licensed Infant Daycare Program. The ideal candidate has extensive experience in early childhood education, strong leadership skills, and a commitment to fostering an inclusive environment for children and families. This role includes overseeing operations, compliance with regulations, and engaging with families and the community. The position offers a full-time, permanent opportunity to make a lasting impact in early childhood education.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3+ years of experience in early childhood education.
• At least 1-2 years in a supervisory or leadership role.
• Knowledge of MELCC regulations and best practices in infant care.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the infant daycare program.
• Maintain a safe and stimulating environment for children.
• Provide ongoing mentorship and coaching to staff.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Time Management

Education

Early Childhood Educator (ECE) Level III certification

First Aid & CPR certification

Clear Criminal Record Check

Child Abuse Registry Check

Job description

Overview

Position type: Permanent, Full-time. The Director plays a central role in the leadership and daily operations of our licensed Infant Daycare Program, which serves 42-45 children in a high-quality early learning environment. Reporting to the Co-Executive Directors and working as part of a larger non-profit organization, the Director is responsible for supporting a nurturing, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate program aligned with the Manitoba Early Learning and Child Care (MELCC) standards. While administrative services like bookkeeping, payroll, and HR are handled by our central office, the Director focuses on leading program delivery, staff supervision, compliance, and relationship-building with families and community partners. The ideal candidate brings a strong background in early childhood education, is deeply committed to quality care, and has the organizational and leadership skills to inspire a team and maintain a safe, enriching space for infants and toddlers.

Core Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the Infant Daycare Program in alignment with MELCC regulations and NETES’ mission and values
• Maintain a clean, safe, and stimulating environment for infants and young children
• Ensuring all license, health and safety requirements are consistently met
• Develop and implement engaging, developmentally appropriate curriculum for infants
• Monitor child development and create individual action/support plans where needed
• Prepare and submit reports required by MELCC and NETES

Team Supervision & Development

• Manage staff schedules to ensure coverage and ratio compliance while supporting team well-being
• Provide ongoing mentorship, coaching, and supervision to staff, students, and volunteers
• Lead monthly team meetings and facilitate regular classroom observations
• Assist in the hiring, orientation, and training of new staff and volunteers
• Support staff performance reviews and professional development planning
• Ensure compliance with NETES’ HR policies and workplace standards

Family & Community Engagement

• Foster open, respectful communication with families regarding their child’s experience and development
• Coordinate and support family involvement and parent advisory committee meetings
• Manage program enrollment, waitlists, and maintain accurate children’s records
• Represent the daycare program with professionalism in the community and with stakeholders
• Build relationships with local organizations, ECE training institutions, and interdisciplinary professionals

Program Administration & Operations

• Monitor program inventory and ensure supplies and materials are well-stocked
• Support budget planning and monitor day-to-day expenses
• Collaborate with the central admin team to ensure smooth administrative operations
• Promote a positive public image and stay informed on early childhood education trends

Qualifications

Education & Certification

• Early Childhood Educator (ECE) Level III certification in good standing, including required MCCA training
• Valid First Aid & CPR certification
• Clear and current Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Search
• Valid Child Abuse Registry Check
• Valid driver’s license and access to vehicle

Experience & Knowledge

• Minimum 3+ years of experience in early childhood education, with at least 1-2 years in a supervisory or leadership capacity
• Strong knowledge of MELCC regulations and current best practices in infant/toddler care
• Experience developing, implementing, and evaluating infant/toddler care
• Familiarity with child development assessment tools and techniques
• Understanding of inclusive and trauma-informed practices

Skills & Abilities

• Proven leadership and team-building skills in a childcare setting
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills
• Strong organizational and time management abilities
• Sound judgement and problem-solving skills, especially in a fast-paced care environment
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and act with professionalism in all situations
• Skilled in engaging families and working collaboratively with diverse communities

Application Process

1. Email
2. Visit www.netes.ca/jobs to apply online
3. Drop off in person to Reception at 304-181 Higgins Avenue

We are committed to incorporating an Indigenous perspective across our services to support the Indigenous community. Preference will be given to Indigenous candidates (First Nation - Status, Non-status, Métis, or Inuit), especially those registered as NETES clients. Please self-declare Indigenous status in your cover letter.