Assistant Director

Sunrise Preschools; Gastonia (NC); On-site; USD 37,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

Sunrise Preschools is seeking an Assistant Director to oversee day-to-day center operations with a strong focus on staff leadership, administrative excellence, and strict adherence to company standards. The role reports to the Center Director and drives performance across the team.

You will manage staff scheduling and attendance (ADP), ensure licensing compliance, support enrollment efforts, and partner with the Center Director on financial and administrative tasks to keep the center running

Qualifications

• Associate degree in early childhood education or business, or equivalent experience.
• Meet or exceed State Assistant Director licensing requirements.
• Experience with ADP for scheduling and attendance.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.

Responsibilities

• Center-level administrative execution with strong staff leadership.
• Oversee scheduling, attendance, and kit/ratio coverage.
• Ensure licensing compliance and policy adherence.
• Support enrollment processes, tours, and family engagement.
• Coordinate with Center Director on finances and operations.

Skills

Detail oriented

Highly organized

Time management

People development

Administrative systems

Team player

Communication skills

Enrollment growth partnerships

Education

Associate degree in ECE

Business degree or related field

Equivalent experience

Tools

ADP

Job description

Job Description

Position Summary

The Assistant Director is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the center, with a strong focus on staff management, administrative excellence, and operational execution. This role ensures the school and program run efficiently while supporting staff performance and maintaining compliance with company standards. The Assistant Director reports to the Center Director.

Essential Functions

Staff Leadership & Management

Business Administration

• Manage staff scheduling, time and attendance record keeping in ADP, along with staff coverage to meet ratio and operational needs.

Operational Excellence

• Oversee daily center operations to ensure consistency, safety, and compliance.
• Ensure adherence to licensing regulations and company policies.

Administrative & Financial Support

• Manage collection and account accuracy.
• Maintain accurate records and ensure timely completion of administrative tasks.
• Support financial operations in partnership with the Center Director.

Family Support

• Accountable for Family and Teacher development & Retention
• Assist with tours and enrollment processes as needed.

Scope of Responsibility

• Center-level administrative execution
• Administrative coordination including scheduling and supplies
• Supporting compliance and documentation requirements
• Enabling efficient daily operations across the center

Key Responsibilities

• Administrative Execution
• Operational Coordination
• Compliance & Documentation
• Family & Staff Support
• Partnership with Center Director

Pay and benefits

Pay: $43,680, based on experience and education.

Full-time employees receive:

• Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and short- and long-term disability
• 401(k)
• 9 company-paid holidays and 8 days of PTO
• 50% tuition discount for your own children enrolled at a CDS center
• Up to $5,250 in annual tuition reimbursement for continued education
• Access to PerkSpot for discounts on major brands and services

Requirements

Education Requirements

• Associate degree in early childhood education (preferred), business (or related field) or equivalent years of experience.
• Meet or exceed State Assistant Director licensing requirements

Ideal Candidate Demonstrates

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy
• Hyper Organized with strong problem-solving skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
• Passion for developing people
• Comfort with administrative systems and processes
• A team-oriented mindset with a willingness to support where needed
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Effective partnerships with school leadership to support enrollment growth, talent recruitment, onboarding, employee engagement, and compliance and quality.

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