Senior Director of Early Childhood Education

Rising Star Preschool; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 35,232 - 50,179; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off (PTO)

Employee assistance program

Education assistance

Growth opportunities

Mentor/Apprentice program

Flexible schedule

Job summary

A nonprofit preschool organization in San Diego, CA is seeking a full-time Preschool Director to lead operational compliance, financial management, and strategic growth. The role includes overseeing staff training and maintaining community engagement through educational programs. Ideal candidates will hold a Bachelor's degree in early childhood education or a related field, coupled with leadership experience. Exceptional communication and organizational skills are essential. Competitive salary at $31/hour, with various benefits including paid time off and education assistance.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of leadership experience in early childhood education, childcare administration, nonprofit management, or a related field.
• Experience with California Community Care Licensing (CCL) and childcare regulatory compliance.
• Strong understanding of Title 22 and Title 5 regulations.

Responsibilities

• Lead the organization while ensuring compliance and financial discipline.
• Oversee operational readiness and coach administrative staff.
• Partner with the Board of Directors to set priorities.

Skills

Leadership experience in early childhood education

Financial management

Excellent written and verbal communication

Organizational skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education or related field

Job description

Ready to lead an organization where compliance, financial discipline, and mission align? Rising Star Preschool in San Diego, CA is seeking a full-time, onsite Preschool Director who can champion excellence in early childhood education.

This executive role offers $31/hour, meaningful influence, and a culture built on trust and continuous improvement. We also provide amazing benefits and perks that include:

• Paid time off (PTO)
• Employee assistance program
• Education assistance
• Growth opportunities
• Mentor/Apprentice program
• Flexible schedule

A GLIMPSE INTO YOUR LEADERSHIP:

As our Preschool Director, you lead the entire organizational ecosystem-from compliance frameworks and financial planning to people leadership and strategic growth. Your day blends proactive licensing readiness (CCL, Title 22, applicable Title 5) with hands‑on coaching of administrative staff and Site Supervisors; you review budgets and reports, address operational risks, and partner with the Board of Directors to set priorities. You are not required to act as Site Supervisor, yet you maintain sharp visibility into daily operations to ensure safety, quality, and alignment with our mission.

You’ll work a full‑time Monday through Friday schedule between 7 AM and 4 PM.

OUR STORY:

As a mission‑driven nonprofit rooted in San Diego, we serve children and families in communities that need access, advocacy, and opportunity. While we deliver high‑quality early learning and nurturing care for children from birth through age five, our impact reaches further‑supporting families through social services, mental health resources, and career pathways in early childhood education. Our workplace culture is collaborative, purpose‑led, and built on trust. Team members are encouraged to contribute ideas, develop leadership skills, and pursue professional advancement through ongoing training and credentialing support. At Rising Star Preschool, you’ll join a team that values your voice, invests in your growth, and empowers you to make measurable, lasting change.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR SUCCESS:

• Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, business administration, nonprofit management, or a related field
• 5+ years of leadership experience in early childhood education, childcare administration, nonprofit management, or a related field
• Experience with California Community Care Licensing (CCL) and childcare regulatory compliance
• Financial management and staff leadership experience
• Strong understanding of Title 22 regulations
• Excellent written, verbal, and organizational skills

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree
• Experience leading a licensed preschool or early learning organization in California
• Experience working with Boards of Directors
• Change‑management or program stabilization experience
• Familiarity with CACFP, CCTR, CSPP, or other subsidized childcare programs
• Knowledge of Title 5 regulations

Ready to lead with integrity and grow with purpose? Apply today to become our Preschool Director! Our initial application is quick, easy, and mobile‑friendly.

Must have the ability to pass a background check.