Childcare Center Director

GroHR; Bourbonnais (IL); On-site; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Kankankee YMCA is seeking a full-time Childcare Center Director to lead our childcare team and oversee day-to-day operations. The role requires active involvement in program planning, staff management, and parent/community communication to support school readiness and child development.

The ideal candidate will have a degree in Early Childhood Education and 2+ years of supervisory experience in a DCFS-licensed setting, with CPR/First Aid certification or ability to obtain within 30 days.

Qualifications

• The candidate must have a degree in early childhood education or related field.
• Experience supervising staff in a DCFS-licensed childcare setting.
• Knowledge of DCFS licensing requirements and related background checks.
• Familiarity with Illinois Early Learning Guidelines and Gateways to Opportunity is preferred.
• CPR, First Aid, and Child Abuse Prevention certification (or ability to obtain within 30 days).

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the childcare center and ensure DCFS licensing compliance.
• Lead curriculum development and educational practices meeting Illinois guidelines.
• Manage staff schedules, training, and performance for a high‑performing team.
• Maintain open communication with parents/guardians about child development and center activities.
• Conduct staff and program evaluations to uphold quality standards.
• Prepare reports and maintain records of children's progress, staff performance, and operations.
• Coordinate with external agencies to align with educational standards and practices.
• Administer first aid and CPR as required and lead staff in emergency protocols.
• Manage the center budget and resource allocation in line with goals.
• Advocate for policy updates reflecting community needs and research in early childhood education.

Skills

Supervisory experience

Staff coaching

Communication with families

Emergency response

Budget management

Education

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or related field

Job description

Job Posting: Childcare Center Director - Kankakee YMCA

The Kankakee YMCA, a leader in community-based development programs, is excited to announce a full-time job opening for a Childcare Center Director at our facility. This critical role involves leading our dedicated childcare team and overseeing the operations of our various early learning programs. The position available is on-site and requires the director to be actively engaged in the daily activities and management of the center. This is not a remote job opportunity. As a Childcare Center Director, you will ensure that our center provides a safe, nurturing environment while promoting school readiness, social-emotional development, and alignment with YMCA values. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in childhood education management, paired with a passion for child development and leadership. This role demands hands-on involvement in program planning, staff management, and direct communication with parents and community stakeholders to support the growth and development of young children and their families.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the childcare center and ensure compliance with DCFS licensing, health and safety standards.
• Lead and support the childcare team in the development and implementation of curriculum and educational practices that meet Illinois Early Learning Guidelines.
• Manage staff schedules, training, and development to ensure a high-performance team capable of delivering quality childcare and educational experiences.
• Maintain open and effective communication with parents and guardians regarding child development and center activities.
• Conduct regular evaluations of staff and programs to ensure quality standards are met and exceeded.
• Prepare reports and maintain accurate records of children's progress, staff performance, and operational requirements.
• Coordinate with external agencies and community groups to enhance educational content and ensure the center's alignment with current educational standards and practices.
• Administer first aid and CPR when required, and ensure a quick response during emergencies by leading and educating staff on emergency protocols.
• Manage the center's budget effectively, ensuring the allocation of resources aligns with departmental goals and YMCA's strategic plans.
• Implement and advocate for policy changes within the center to reflect the evolving needs of the community and advances in early childhood education research.

Requirements

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or related field required.
• 2+ years of supervisory experience in a DCFS-licensed childcare setting.
• Meets all DCFS licensing requirements including background checks, TB testing, and qualifications.
• Familiarity with Illinois Early Learning Guidelines and Gateways to Opportunity preferred.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks, coach educators, and communicate effectively with families.
• CPR, First Aid, and Child Abuse Prevention certification (or ability to obtain certification within 30 days).
• Flexibility to work hours that support program coverage, family needs, and licensing ratios.