About Metro Kids Club
Metro Kids Club (MKC) provides high‑quality, school‑age childcare rooted in safety, reliability, and positive youth development. We are expanding and seeking emerging leaders who want to grow into Site Director roles within our organization.
Position: Site Director in Training (SDIT)
The Site Director in Training is a developmental leadership role designed to prepare high‑potential team members for future Site Director responsibilities. This is a structured 12‑month pathway with hands‑on coaching in compliance, programming, staff leadership, and site operations.
The SDIT works under the guidance of the Site Director and Assistant Director while building the competencies required to independently lead a licensed school‑age program.
Required Qualifications (DCFS‑Aligned)
To qualify, candidates must meet the Illinois DCFS educational and experience requirements for a Site Director pathway, including:
Education (Required)
✔ At least 6 semester hours in Early Childhood Education (ECE), Child Development, or a closely related field
(DCFS‑approved coursework required for Director qualification)
Experience (Required)
✔ 3,000 hours of paid or verifiable experience working with children under age 6
(DCFS requirement for candidates with fewer than 30 college credits)
Additional Requirements
- Prior experience in childcare, recreation, education, or youth programming
- Strong communication, organization, and teamwork skills
- Demonstrated leadership potential and willingness to learn
- Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) or willingness to obtain within 90 days
- Ability to work evenings, school breaks, and occasional weekends
- Must pass all DCFS background checks and health/safety requirements
- Interest in advancing to a Site Director role within 12 months
What You’ll Learn & Do, Program & Compliance
- Support daily operations under DCFS licensing standards
- Assist with attendance, incident reports, food service logs, and safety documentation
- Learn daily programming leadership, group transitions, and behavior management
- Participate in structured training on Site Director responsibilities
Leadership & Staff Development
- Support Group Leaders and Program Aides during programming blocks
- Learn coaching and modeling techniques to strengthen staff performance
- Assist with onboarding and training under supervision
- Build skills in maintaining staffing levels and reliable operating hours
Parent & Community Engagement
- Greet families and support daily communication
- Learn professional communication for updates, minor incidents, and concerns
- Build foundational relationships with school partners
Cleaning, Maintenance & Safety
- Help maintain a clean, organized, and safe environment
- Participate in daily cleaning routines
- Learn and uphold MKC safety protocols and emergency procedures
Brand Protection & Operating Hours
- Support consistent opening and closing procedures
- Assist with staffing coverage to prevent closures
- Learn proactive communication practices for operational risks
Development Expectations
The SDIT role is a 12‑month leadership development pathway. During this period, you will:
- Complete structured training modules
- Demonstrate competency in Site Director responsibilities
- Participate in leadership evaluations and coaching
- Prepare for placement into a Site Director role as openings occur
If not placed into a Site Director role within one year, the position may convert to an Assistant Director role based on organizational needs and performance.
Physical Requirements
- Stand/walk for up to 8 hours
- Lift up to 40 lbs
- Bend, kneel, reach, and move quickly in emergencies
- Perform cleaning tasks as needed
Why Join Metro Kids Club?
- Clear advancement pathway to Site Director
- Strong leadership coaching and professional development
- Supportive, mission‑driven team culture
- Opportunity to make a meaningful impact on children and families
Pay: $19.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Opportunities for advancement
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
