What are the responsibilities and job description for the ASSISTANT DIRECTOR position at Decatur Shelby County YMCA?
Job Title: Assistant Director
Original Date: 07/16/2026
Revised Date:
Department: Julia & Nicholas Runnebohm Early Learning Center
Reports To: ELC Executive Director
Basic Functions and Scope of Responsibility
The Assistant Director provides strategic oversight of the Julia & Nicholas Runnebohm Early Learning Center. This facility includes ages 6 weeks to 6 years. The Assistant Director ensures that programs meet community needs, maintain high safety and quality standards, and operate within state licensing and accreditation guidelines. This role requires a dynamic leader who can build strong teams, foster positive relationships, and manage business operations effectively.
Role Responsibilities
- Assist in enhancing all childcare programs, ensuring high quality, safety, and compliance with licensing, Paths to Quality Level 3, and YMCA standards
- Support ELC staff in day-to-day operations, including behavior support of children
- Foster a positive, team-oriented culture focused on staff development and retention
- Assist in family and staff communication via phone, in-person, or Procare and act as the first point of contact when the Executive Director is not present.
- Assist in marketing and enrollment with prospective families, including conducting tours
- Train, orient and support staff to achieve excellence
- Manage purchases to ensure a cost-effective operation
- Maintaining child and staff files in compliance with licensing
- Attend all staff meetings and trainings
- Perform all other duties as assigned by the Executive Director to support childcare programs and the YMCA association
Education, Experience & Training
- Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Business, or related field (Bachelor’s preferred).
- 3 years in licensed childcare facility
- Strong understanding of Indiana state licensing requirements, Paths to Quality Accreditation, and early childhood education best practices.
- CPR, AED and First Aid certification obtained within 30 days of employment
- Ability to inspire and lead diverse teams, manage multiple priorities, take and give direction and communicate effectively.
- Caring: Show a sincere concern for others
- Honesty: Be truthful in what you say and do
- Respect: Follow the golden rule
- Responsibility: Be accountable for your promises and actions
Work Environment and Physical Demands
- Visual, auditory, and verbal ability to communicate effectively.
- Must have high level of alertness, concentration, and initiative.
- Ability to lift 50 lbs. and stand, walk, or sit for extended periods of time; occasionally stoop/bend.
- Maintain a neat and professional appearance at all times.
Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to the job. The job description is not intended to be a complete list of responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees in the job classification. This document is not a contract and does not, in any way, alter the at-will employment relationship.
DSYMCA provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type with regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity of expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
Salary : $44,950