Assistant Director

Yellow-Brick-Road; West Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 45,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) plan

Paid time off & holidays

Childcare discounts

Employee assistance program

Job summary

Yellow Brick Road seeks an Assistant Director to support the Director and lead a high-performing team in delivering exceptional early childhood education. You’ll ensure policy compliance, strengthen classroom quality, and foster a warm, inclusive environment for children, families, and staff.

Through collaboration with Marketing, Enrollment, HR, and Finance, you’ll implement initiatives, manage licensing readiness, and monitor budgeting, staffing, and records with accuracy and care.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field or equivalent experience.
• 2–4 years in childcare management or leadership support.
• Knowledge of childcare regulations and licensing standards.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office; CRM/parent apps a plus.

Responsibilities

• Support the Director in leading and developing a high-performing team.
• Conduct staff meetings, trainings, and performance check-ins.
• Ensure compliance with state and company standards in classrooms.
• Assist with licensing inspections and internal audits.
• Engage families through clear communication and events.
• Coordinate enrollment, attendance, and staffing records.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Organizational skills

Adaptability

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Business Administration, or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

CRM systems

Parent communication apps

Job description

At Yellow Brick Road, we’re on a mission to put good humans into the world and leave it better than we found it. Our team creates warm, inclusive, and joyful environments where children, families, and staff can thrive. If you’re energized by purpose, connection, and meaningful work, you’ll love being part of a community that invests in your growth and celebrates what makes you exceptional.

The Assistant Director plays a vital role in supporting the overall success and smooth daily operation of the school by ensuring adherence to company policies, regulatory requirements, and high-quality standards. You’ll help create a fun, nurturing, and positive environment for our students, families, and staff through collaboration, organization, and communication.

The Assistant Director will partner closely with the Director and leadership team to uphold the school’s mission, assist with daily management, and contribute to continuous growth within the community - ensuring every child benefits from the company’s exceptional care and educational programs.

What You’ll Do

Leadership & Team Support

Support the Director in leading and developing a high-performing team that embodies the company’s mission and values.

Assist with conducting staff meetings, trainings, and performance check-ins to ensure staff are supported and equipped for success.

Help maintain a positive, professional work culture by modeling strong communication, teamwork, and accountability.

Provide ongoing coaching and guidance to staff in compliance, classroom quality, and professional growth.

Collaborate with internal departments (marketing, enrollment, HR, finance, etc.) to ensure smooth communication and consistent implementation of policies and initiatives.

Program Quality & Compliance

Assist in classrooms and ratios to ensure compliance with state and company standards (50% of time).

Conduct classroom observations and support curriculum implementation using instructional coaching techniques.

Help review and maintain school policies, procedures, and documentation to meet regulatory and quality standards.

Support the Director in preparing for and maintaining licensing inspections and internal audits.

Family & Community Engagement

Build strong relationships with current and prospective families by providing excellent communication and customer service.

Support parent engagement through intake meetings, family events, and parent communication platforms.

Assist in coordinating community outreach and partnerships with local organizations and schools.

Assist the Director in maintaining accurate records of enrollment, attendance, and staffing.

Help monitor expenses, labor hours, and supplies to ensure budget efficiency and compliance with company guidelines.

Support enrollment goals by engaging with prospective families, conducting tours, and following up on leads.

Partner with the Director and Finance Team to resolve billing or financial discrepancies.

Organizational Health

Work collaboratively with the Director and leadership peers to align with company mission and goals.

Support employee engagement efforts, team morale, and overall operational excellence.

Step into leadership or classroom roles as needed to maintain coverage and program quality.

What You’ll Need

Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Business Administration, or related field preferred (or equivalent combination of education and experience).

2-4 years of experience in childcare management, early education, or a leadership support role.

Knowledge of childcare regulations, licensing standards, and early education best practices.

Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; experience with CRM systems or parent communication apps is a plus.

Ability to adapt to changing priorities and work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

Other Requirements

Ability to commute to assigned school location.

Commercial Drivers License (or willingness to obtain within 30 days) .

Valid CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain within 30 days).

Ability to lift and carry up to 65 lbs and perform tasks requiring kneeling, crouching, and physical activity.

Willingness to occasionally travel to other schools (up to 25%) or attend conferences and trainings.

Flexible, proactive attitude with a willingness to assist wherever needed, including stepping into classroom support or teacher roles.

What We Offer

Ongoing professional development & growth opportunities

Health, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) plan

Paid time off & holidays

Yellow Brick Road offers medical, dental and vision insurance, 401(k), paid time off and holidays, childcare discounts, and an employee assistance program.

$40,000 - $45,000 USD

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