Child Development Center exists to serve children and families with excellence, care, and integrity as part of the mission of local church. We are committed to providing a safe, engaging, and high-quality early childhood environment where children can grow academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually.
Position Summary
The director is responsible for overseeing the daily operations and long-term success of the childcare center. This individual will ensure excellence in program quality, staff leadership, parent communication, financial accountability, and compliance with Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) regulations and Keystone STARS standards.
The ideal candidate is a high-capacity leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment, leads with consistency and accountability, and is passionate about building a healthy team culture while delivering exceptional care to children and families.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide overall leadership and oversight of daily childcare center operations, ensuring a safe, organized, high-quality, and mission-driven environment for children, families, and staff.
- Maintain full compliance with Pennsylvania DHS regulations, Keystone STARS standards, licensing requirements, inspections, audits, staff certifications, and operational documentation.
- Lead, coach, supervise, and develop childcare staff by establishing clear expectations, maintaining staffing ratios and schedules, promoting accountability, and fostering a positive team culture focused on excellence and professional growth.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for parents and families by providing timely, professional communication, addressing concerns effectively, and building strong, trust-based relationships within the community.
- Oversee enrollment, waitlists, tuition collection, and financial accountability while collaborating with organizational leadership on budgeting, operational performance, and capacity management.
- Ensure implementation of engaging, age-appropriate programming and curriculum aligned with early learning standards, including oversight of summer camp and special program initiatives.
- Promote continuous improvement across all areas of operations, educational quality, staff performance, and family experience.
Qualifications
- Minimum 3–5 years of leadership experience in childcare or early childhood education
- Strong knowledge of Pennsylvania DHS regulations and childcare licensing requirements
- Experience with Keystone STARS preferred
- Proven ability to lead teams, enforce policies, and drive accountability
- Strong communication, organizational, and conflict resolution skills
- Demonstrated operational leadership and problem-solving ability
Compensation & Benefits
- Annual base salary + performance-based incentive bonuses
- Eligibility for employer retirement match after one year
- Healthcare benefits currently under consideration
Pay: $45,000.00 - $58,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Childcare
- Employee discount
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
Education:
Ability to Relocate:
- State College, PA 16801: Relocate before starting work (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
