Childcare Center Assistant Director
Le Petit Elephant Nursery and Preschool
Napa Valley, California
Le Petit Elephant Nursery and Preschool (LPE) is seeking an inspiring, mission-driven Assistant Director to help lead the school into its next and most exciting chapter. We just moved into our brand-new 2.5 acre campus and expanded our offerings, so this is a rare ground-up opportunity for a visionary leader to shape the future of one of Napa Valley’s most beloved early childhood programs.
About Le Petit Elephant
For over a decade, LPE has been known for its thoughtfully designed, child-centered approach to early education blending year-round outdoor learning, play-based academics, Spanish immersion, social-emotional development, and deep respect for childhood. We serve children from infancy through preschool and Transitional Kindergarten/TK, and we are poised to grow even further with the launch of our new campus.
The Opportunity
The Assistant Director will partner closely with the Director to provide strategic, operational, and community leadership as LPE scales its impact. This role is ideal for a dynamic leader who is excited by growth, inspired by early childhood education, and drawn to Napa Valley’s unique lifestyle and community.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Leadership
- Assist in overseeing all aspects of daily center operations and ensure compliance with federal, state (including CDSS/Title 22), and local licensing regulations.
- Support the Director in developing, implementing, and updating policies, procedures, and center standards.
- Step in as the acting Director in the Director’s absence, maintaining continuity of operations.
- Monitor facility safety, sanitation, and readiness to meet the needs of infants, toddlers, and older children.
Staff Supervision and Development
- Assist in recruiting, hiring, and onboarding qualified early childhood educators and support staff.
- Provide ongoing mentorship, guidance, and support to teaching teams to ensure high-quality programming.
- Support staff in professional development, performance evaluations, and trainings (e.g., CPR/First Aid, child development best practices).
- Conduct or assist with regular staff meetings to share updates and reinforce expectations.
Curriculum and Program Quality
- Collaborate with the Director and teaching staff to develop and implement age-appropriate, developmentally grounded curriculum for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers.
- Monitor classroom environments and learning experiences to ensure they promote safety, inclusion, and growth.
Family Engagement and Communication
- Maintain positive and professional communication with families regarding center policies, events, and developmental progress.
- Provide tours as needed for prospective families
- Participate in family orientations, conferences, and unresolved concern resolution when appropriate.
Administrative Support
- Assist with maintaining accurate records (enrollment, attendance, staff certifications, child file documentation, subsidy records and reporting, etc.).
- Contribute to budgeting, planning, and reporting as needed.
- Support billing, fee collection, and financial tracking in coordination with administrative staff.
Minimum Qualifications
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Education Administration, or related field (preferred).
- OR equivalent combination of education and experience in early childhood programs.
- Several years of experience in early childhood education, including supervisory or leadership experience.
Certifications & Requirements
- Current CPR and First Aid certification (infant/child).
- Background clearances consistent with California childcare licensing (e.g., DOJ/FBI checks).
- Meet any applicable Child Development Permit or qualification requirements as defined by California law and local licensing/Title 22.
Skills & Abilities
- Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
- Knowledge of child development, infant/toddler care practices, and curriculum planning.
- Ability to work collaboratively with staff, families, and community partners.
- Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and culturally responsive practices.
Physical & Work Environment
- Work is performed in an active childcare center environment; frequent movement and interaction with children and staff is required.
- May require periods of standing, bending, and lifting up to standard childcare industry safety limits.
Working Conditions
- Full-time schedule typically aligned with center hours; flexibility to assist at key family times or special events may be required.
Why Join Le Petit Elephant?
- Help shape a flagship early childhood campus from the ground up
- Work alongside a passionate Founder, Director, and dedicated team
- Make a lasting impact on children, families, and educators
- Enjoy the lifestyle, culture, and natural beauty of Napa Valley
- Lead a school with heart, history, and bold plans for the future
Compensation
Competitive salary commensurate with experience, plus benefits.
To Apply:
Please submit a resume and a thoughtful cover letter sharing why you are drawn to Le Petit Elephant and how you would help lead the school into its next chapter. You can email it to [email protected]
This is more than a job, it’s an opportunity to help write the next story of a school where children, educators, and community truly thrive.
Pay: $26.00 - $28.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Professional development assistance
- Referral program
- Retirement plan
- Tuition reimbursement
Work Location: In person
