Early Childhood Center Leader & Staff Developer

YMCA of Rock River Valley; Rockford, Northern (IL, KY); Hybrid; USD 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

YMCA of Rock River Valley is seeking an Early Childhood Assistant Director at the Harlem Community Center to oversee staff scheduling and maintain IL DCFS ratios. You will partner with the Center Director to hire, train, and develop staff while ensuring safe, high-quality programs for children and families.

This exempt full-time role requires leadership, strong organization, and a commitment to inclusive, welcoming environments.

Qualifications

• At least 21 years of age, as required by IL DCFS Standards.
• Meets director qualifications established by IL DCFS Standards and state law.
• CPR, First Aid, AED certifications and Child Abuse prevention training within 30 days of hire date.
• One to three years teaching and/or program leadership experience preferred.
• Ability to plan, organize and implement age-appropriate/developmentally appropriate program activities.
• Previous experience with diverse populations. Ability to develop positive, authentic relationships with people from different backgrounds.

Responsibilities

• Start your day by connecting with staff and classrooms, ensuring children, families, and team members have everything they need for a successful day.
• Partner with the Center Director to lead and develop staff, supporting hiring, training, scheduling, payroll, and professional growth.
• Step in as the designated leader when needed, helping solve challenges, answer questions, and keep operations running smoothly.
• Monitor enrollment, attendance, and staffing trends, making adjustments to support quality programming and individual needs of children.
• Create a positive, relationship-focused environment by building strong connections with children, families, staff, and the community.
• Maintain program excellence by supporting quality standards, enrollment processes, marketing efforts, and outcome reporting.
• Ensure classrooms and common areas are safe, clean, and welcoming, overseeing supplies, facility inspections, and opening and closing procedures.
• Support your team through the unexpected, responding calmly to emergencies, addressing concerns promptly, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
• End the day knowing the little things mattered, whether it was supporting a teacher, helping a child succeed, or creating a positive experience for a family.

Skills

Staff leadership

Hiring & training

Scheduling & payroll

Regulatory compliance

Education

IL DCFS director qualifications

Job description

YMCA of Rock River Valley is seeking an Early Childhood Assistant Director at the Harlem Community Center to oversee staff scheduling and maintain IL DCFS ratios. You will partner with the Center Director to hire, train, and develop staff while ensuring safe, high-quality programs for children and families.

This exempt full-time role requires leadership, strong organization, and a commitment to inclusive, welcoming environments.