Childcare Center Director

Young Mens Christian Association Kankakee; Illinois; On-site; USD 48,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Young Men’s Christian Association Kankakee seeks a qualified Childcare Center Director – Early Learning Programs to manage daily operations for ages 6 weeks through Pre‑K. You will guide classroom teams, ensure licensed, high‑quality care, and promote school readiness aligned with YMCA values.

You will hire and coach staff, support curriculum implementation, and maintain DCFS compliance while fostering strong family partnerships.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated ability to lead and develop a team in a DCFS-licensed setting.
• Strong communication with families and staff to support child development.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities with safety and licensing in mind.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day‑to‑day operations of Early Learning classrooms to ensure safe, developmentally appropriate care.
• Hire, train, schedule, and evaluate staff within DCFS guidelines.
• Support curriculum planning, documentation, and behavioral guidance.
• Maintain licensing compliance, safety procedures, and required inspections.
• Engage families through conferences and regular communication.
• Coordinate transportation and field trips for program activities.
• Collect data for assessments, licensing, and grant reporting as directed.
• Support ISBE food grant data collection and reporting.

Skills

Leadership & Staff Development

Family Communication

Program Management

Staff Coaching

Education

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

Job description

Job Title: Childcare Center DirectorFLSA Status: Full-Time/ExemptPay Rate: $48,000-52,000 Annually ($4,000-$4,333.33 Monthly) (DOE)Reports to: Childcare DirectorPOSITION SUMMARYThe Childcare Center Director – Early Learning Programs is responsible for managing daily operations and ensuring the delivery of high-quality, licensed early learning experiences for children ages 6 weeks through Pre-K. This position supports classroom staff, oversees curriculum implementation, and ensures a safe, nurturing environment that promotes school readiness, social-emotional growth, and alignment with YMCA values. The Childcare Center Director acts as an operational partner to the Childcare Director in the full-day childcare program.ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONSOversee the day-to-day operations of Early Learning classrooms to ensure safe, developmentally appropriate care.Hire, train, schedule, and evaluate teaching and support staff within DCFS guidelines.Support classroom teams in curriculum planning, documentation, and behavioral guidance.Support kitchen staff and assist in maintaining health department standards.Maintain licensing compliance, including safety procedures, documentation, and required inspections.Ensure cleanliness, supply management, and safety of classrooms and outdoor play areas.Cultivate strong relationships with families through regular communication, conferences, and engagement.Coordinate transportation and logistics for field trips and special events.Monitor developmental progress and coordinate with families and support services when needed.Collect and maintain data for assessments, licensing, and grant reporting as directed.Play a key role in the ISBE food grant; specifically in data collection and reporting.Serve as a role model and mentor for classroom staff in best practices and mission-driven care.Assist with marketing, enrollment tours, and community outreach for early childhood programs.Participate in YMCA events and staff development opportunities.STRATEGIC PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVESProgram Quality & ComplianceDeliver high-quality early learning aligned with DCFS, Y-USA, and early childhood standards.Maintain strong DCFS compliance and positive relationships with licensing officials.Staff Development & CultureBuild a team of nurturing, skilled educators who feel supported and empowered.Lead regular training and coaching to support instructional quality and consistency.Family Engagement & OutcomesStrengthen family partnerships and feedback loops to promote positive developmental outcomes.Improve retention and satisfaction through communication and care alignment with family needs.LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIESMission Advancement: Models inclusive care and fosters development of the whole child.Collaboration: Builds a culture of trust and respect with staff and families.Operational Effectiveness: Ensures classroom quality, safety, and daily efficiency.Personal Growth: Pursues professional growth and fosters learning among others.QUALIFICATIONSAssociate’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 within 30 days).Flexibility to work hours that support program coverage, family needs, and licensing ratios.Performance IndicatorsMaintain 90%+ classroom enrollment and increase infant/toddler enrollment by 5% annually.Complete monthly coaching check-ins and ensure 100% of staff meet licensing and training benchmarks.Host quarterly family engagement events and achieve 90%+ satisfaction scores.Build at least 2 early childhood community partnerships annually (e.g., libraries, health providers).