Childcare Center Director

GroHR; Kankakee (IL); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Kankakee YMCA in Illinois is seeking a full-time Childcare Center Director to lead our childcare team, oversee early learning programs, and ensure DCFS licensing compliance. The director will participate hands-on in program planning, staff supervision, and family communication to promote school readiness and safe, nurturing environments.

The role requires a background in early childhood education administration, with 2+ years supervisory experience, and ability to manage budgets, partner with

Qualifications

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

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 curriculum development aligned with Illinois guidelines.
• Manage staff schedules, training, and development for a high-performance team.
• Maintain open communication with parents regarding child development and center activities.
• Conduct staff and program evaluations to ensure quality standards are met.
• Prepare reports and maintain records of children's progress and operations.
• Coordinate with external agencies to align with current educational practices.
• Administer first aid and CPR when required and train staff on emergency protocols.
• Manage the center's budget and resource allocation.
• Advocate for policy changes reflecting community needs and research in early childhood education.

Skills

Supervisory experience

Childcare management

Communication with families

CPR/First Aid certified

Education

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

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.