Childcare Center Director

Precious Cargo Preschool & Childcare; Salem (OR); On-site; USD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonus

Competitive salary

Employee discounts

Health insurance

Paid time off

Training & development

Job summary

Precious Cargo Preschool & Childcare in Salem, OR is seeking a passionate Childcare Center Director to lead our team of early childhood educators. This role offers a chance to impact families and children by guiding a high-quality program in a nurturing environment.

You will oversee daily operations, recruit and develop staff, and ensure compliance with Oregon licensing and health standards while fostering strong family engagement and community partnerships.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in ECE or related field.
• Minimum step 8 in the Oregon Registry Online.
• 2–3 years of experience in childcare center management or director-level role.
• Knowledge of Oregon licensing requirements and NAEYC standards.
• Current CPR and First Aid certification (or ability to obtain).
• Pass a background check as per Oregon regulations.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the childcare center, ensuring a safe, compliant, and enriching environment.
• Recruit, hire, train, and supervise staff and teaching assistants.
• Develop and implement age-appropriate early childhood curricula and programs.
• Maintain licensing compliance and health and safety standards.
• Engage families through open communication and events.
• Manage center budget, enrollment, and administrative records.
• Serve as primary contact for licensing agencies and community partners.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Organization

Staff management

Family engagement

Education

Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education

Tools

Childcare management software

Job description

Benefits:

• Bonus based on performance
• Competitive salary
• Employee discounts
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Training & development

About the Role:

Precious Cargo Preschool & Childcare in Salem, OR is looking for a passionate and experienced Childcare Center Director to lead our dedicated team of early childhood educators. This is an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and families in our community while guiding a nurturing, high-quality childcare program.

Responsibilities:

• Oversee daily operations of the childcare center, ensuring a safe, compliant, and enriching environment
• Recruit, hire, train, and supervise childcare staff and teaching assistants
• Develop and implement age-appropriate early childhood education curricula and programs
• Maintain compliance with Oregon childcare licensing regulations and state/local health and safety standards
• Build and maintain strong relationships with enrolled families through open communication and family engagement initiatives
• Manage center budget, enrollment, and administrative functions including recordkeeping and reporting
• Conduct staff performance evaluations and facilitate ongoing professional developmentServe as the primary point of contact for licensing agencies, community partners, and prospective families

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field preferred
• Minimum step 8 in the Oregon Registry Online
• Minimum 2–3 years of experience in childcare center management or a director-level role
• Knowledge of Oregon childcare licensing requirements and NAEYC accreditation standards
• Current CPR and First Aid certification (or ability to obtain upon hire)
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills
• Experience with childcare management software and administrative recordkeeping
• Genuine passion for early childhood education and child development
• Ability to pass a background check in accordance with Oregon childcare regulations

About Us:

Precious Cargo Preschool & Childcare has been a trusted name in the Salem, OR community, providing a warm, safe, and stimulating environment where young children can learn, grow, and thrive. Families love us for our dedicated staff, nurturing atmosphere, and commitment to each child's individual development. We pride ourselves on fostering a supportive workplace where educators feel valued, empowered, and inspired to do their best work every day.