Childcare Shift Lead Part-Time

Boone County Missouri; Columbia Township (MO); On-site; USD 23,000 - 32,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Shift differential

Flexible scheduling

Job summary

Boone County Missouri invites applications for a Part-Time Shift Lead at our new Public Safety Childcare Center in Columbia, MO. You will help monitor daily operations, support licensed staff, and ensure safety and regulatory compliance across shifts from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

seven days a week. The role emphasizes leadership, clear communication with families, and a commitment to high-quality early childhood education for children aged 6 weeks to 5 years.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent and be at least 18 years old.
• Food Handlers certification required (or obtain before employment).
• Three or more years of experience with children in childcare or education.

Responsibilities

• Monitor daily operations during assigned shift, ensuring licensing regulations and safety procedures.
• Coordinate classroom coverage, staff breaks, and family communications.
• Lead with strong leadership and problem-solving in a fast-paced childcare setting.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

CPR and First Aid

Food Handlers certification

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associate degree in Early Childhood Education or CDA credential

Five or more years of relevant Early Childhood experience

Job description

Public Safety Childcare Center Opening Fall 2026

Multiple positionsavailable!

Boone County is proud to launch abrand-new, first-of-its-kind Childcare Center dedicated to serving our public safety families. This innovative center will provide high-quality early childhood education in a safe, nurturing, and developmentallyappropriate environmentthat supports the unique schedules and needs of emergency personnel families.

Many public safety families struggle to find childcare that accommodates their unusual and often unpredictable schedules. To better support our employees and their families, our center will initially offer flexible, scheduled childcare seven days a week from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. for children ages 6 weeks through 5 years. This initial program structure creates a strong foundation, with the potential to expand hours and services in the future.

We are seeking a Part-Time Shift Leadwho will work collaboratively with all staff to create a high-quality childcare program that ensures operational excellence, maintains regulatory compliance, supports children’s growth, promotes well-being, and strengthens partnerships with families.

This is a unique opportunity to help build and shape a childcare center from the ground up while supporting the families who serve our community every day.

KeyResponsibilities

The Shift Lead helps monitor daily operations of the childcare center. This position is responsible for overseeing the staff and children during a specific shift, ensuring that licensing regulations, safety procedures, and center policies are followed. The Shift Coordinator supports classroom coverage, coordinates staff breaks, and communicates with families as needed. This position requires strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills in a fast-paced, child-focused environment.

PositionDetails

• Status: Part-time, non-exempt, non-benefited

• Schedule: 10 – 30 hours per week. Shifts vary within center hours of 5:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m., 7 days per week including holidays. Must be able to work any shifts as needed to support center operations and staffing requirements.

• Starting Hourly Salary:Starting from$20.30 per hour, commensurate with experience. Potential for shift differential.

What You Bring

MinimumQualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent and be at least 18 years old, in accordance with applicable state or licensing regulations.
• A valid Food Handlers certification (or obtain before employment begins) and must be willing to obtain Food Manager certification within 6 months of employment.
• Three or more years of experience working with children in a childcare or educational setting.
• Current CPR and First Aid certification or be willing to obtain it within a designated time frame.
• Must pass a background check and medical examination as required by applicable licensing regulations, federal, state, and Boone County policies.
• Must maintain employment eligibility by meeting all state licensing, certification, background check, and training requirements.
• Must maintain a valid driver’s license.
• Advanced understanding of early childhood development and developmentally appropriate practices, along with strong communication and interpersonal skills.

PreferredQualifications

• Associate degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field; or a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or equivalent certification; or five or more years of relevant Early Childhood experience.
• Experience in a licensed childcare center, preschool, or early learning program and familiarity with state licensing regulations and early learning standards.
• Knowledge of inclusive practices and experience working with children from diverse backgrounds or with varying developmental needs.
• A commitment to continued professional development in early childhood education.

Why Join Us?

• Bepart of a groundbreaking initiative supporting public safety families.

• Help build quality care practices, consistent routines, and a culture of excellence.

• Meaningful, mission-driven work serving those who serve our community.

Why Columbia, Missouri?

Living in Columbia means enjoying the energy of a thriving college town and the cultural heart of Mid-Missouri. Home to beloved events like the True/False Film Fest,Columbia offers:

• A vibrant arts, music, and restaurant scene

• 278+ miles of scenic local trails

• Outdoor adventures at Rock Bridge Memorial State Park

• Easy access to Jefferson City, St. Louis, Kansas City, and the Lake of the Ozarks

It’sa place where careeropportunity meetsexceptional quality of life.