Assistant Director - Great Futures Early Learning Center

Position Summary

The Assistant Director supports the daily operations of the child care center by ensuring compliance with all Tennessee Department of Human Services (DHS) licensing standards, center policies, and quality practices. This position assists with staff supervision, professional development, program implementation, family engagement, and administrative operations. The Assistant Director serves as the acting Director in the Director’s absence and helps maintain a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate environment for children, families, and staff.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Leadership & Administration

• Assist the Director with the overall management and daily operation of the child care center.
• Serve as acting Director during absences, ensuring continuity of operations and compliance with all regulations and policies.
• Support the implementation and enforcement of center policies, procedures, and operational standards.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding children, families, and staff information.
• Assist with scheduling, classroom coverage, staff assignments, and ratio management.
• Support enrollment processes, tours, family communication, and record maintenance.
• Help ensure a positive, professional, and team-oriented workplace culture.

DHS Compliance & Licensing Responsibilities

• Ensure the center consistently complies with all Tennessee DHS licensing regulations and requirements.
• Monitor classrooms and center operations for compliance related to:
  • Child-to-staff ratios
  • Supervision requirements
  • Health and safety procedures
  • Emergency preparedness
  • Staff training requirements
  • Attendance and documentation practices
  • Medication administration procedures
  • Transportation procedures (if applicable)
• Assist in preparing for DHS visits, audits, inspections, and assessments.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation required by DHS and center policies.
• Report concerns, incidents, or licensing issues to the Director immediately.
• Support implementation of corrective action plans when necessary.

Staff Supervision & Professional Development

• Assist with onboarding, training, coaching, and mentoring new staff members.
• Support staff in implementing developmentally appropriate practices and positive behavior guidance techniques.
• Conduct classroom observations and provide constructive feedback to improve performance and program quality.
• Help coordinate ongoing professional development opportunities and required annual training.
• Encourage accountability, teamwork, professionalism, and continuous improvement among staff.
• Model appropriate leadership, communication, and professional behavior.

Program & Classroom Support

• Support implementation of curriculum and age-appropriate learning experiences.
• Ensure classrooms maintain safe, organized, engaging, and developmentally appropriate environments.
• Assist staff with classroom management strategies and child behavior support.
• Step into classrooms as needed to maintain ratios and ensure quality care.
• Promote positive relationships with children and families.

Family & Community Relations

• Build positive and respectful relationships with families.
• Address parent questions and concerns professionally and promptly.
• Support family engagement activities, events, and communication efforts.
• Represent the center in a professional manner within the community.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related field preferred.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in a licensed child care setting.
• Previous leadership or supervisory experience preferred.
• Knowledge of Tennessee DHS licensing rules and regulations for child care centers.
• Strong organizational, leadership, and communication skills.
• Ability to maintain professionalism and confidentiality.
• CPR/First Aid Certification or ability to obtain upon hire.
• Ability to pass required background checks and screenings.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Thorough understanding of Tennessee DHS child care licensing requirements.
• Ability to manage multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Effective conflict resolution and team leadership skills.
• Ability to build positive relationships with children, families, and staff.
• Competence in computer systems, recordkeeping, and documentation.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds.
• Ability to bend, kneel, sit on the floor, and actively engage with children.
• Ability to respond quickly in emergency situations.
• Ability to work both indoors and outdoors for extended periods.

Work Schedule

• Full-time position with flexibility based on center operational needs.
• Occasional early mornings, evenings, or special events may be required.

Disclaimer

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this position. Duties and responsibilities may be adjusted by the Center Director or organization based on operational needs.