Child Care Center Assistant Director

Childcare Assistant Director

Reports To: Center Director/Owner

Position Summary

The Assistant Director partners with the Center Director to ensure the smooth daily operation of the center. This role provides leadership and support to teachers, maintains compliance with state licensing regulations, fosters positive relationships with families, and helps create a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for children. The Assistant Director serves as a leader within the center and assumes responsibility for operations in the Director's absence.

Essential Responsibilities:

Leadership & Operations

• Support the daily operation of the center and assist with maintaining a positive, professional culture.
• Supervise, coach, and support teachers to ensure high-quality care and education.
• Assist with classroom coverage and staffing to maintain licensing ratios.
• Help coordinate staff schedules, breaks, and classroom assignments.
• Lead by example and provide hands-on support throughout the center.
• Assume leadership responsibilities when the Director is unavailable.

Staff Development

• Assist with onboarding and training new employees.
• Provide ongoing coaching and feedback to classroom staff.
• Support performance improvement efforts and reinforce center policies and expectations.
• Encourage teamwork, professionalism, and positive communication.

Family Engagement

• Build positive relationships with families through open and professional communication.
• Assist with parent tours, enrollment, and new family orientation.
• Help address parent questions and concerns promptly and professionally.
• Support family events and center activities throughout the year.

Licensing & Compliance

• Help ensure compliance with all state licensing regulations and health and safety standards.
• Monitor classrooms for quality, cleanliness, supervision, and documentation.
• Assist with maintaining children's files, staff records, and required documentation.
• Support emergency preparedness and safety procedures.

Curriculum & Classroom Quality

• Support teachers in implementing developmentally appropriate curriculum and activities.
• Observe classrooms and provide feedback to promote continuous improvement.
• Ensure classrooms are organized, engaging, and welcoming for children and families.
• Step into classrooms as needed to maintain continuity of care.

Administrative Support

• Assist with enrollment, attendance, and recordkeeping.
• Help coordinate supplies and classroom materials.
• Support special events, marketing initiatives, and community outreach.
• Complete additional administrative duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE) with the PA Director’s Credential required OR a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE), Child Development, or a related field
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in early childhood education
• At least 2 years in a leadership or managerial role
• Demonstrated experience working within Keystone STARS and/or NAEYC accreditation frameworks preferred
• Strong understanding of child development principles and best practices
• Excellent organizational, communication, and leadership skills
• Commitment to ongoing professional development and required trainings
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and actively participate in classroom activities throughout the day.
• Ability to respond quickly in emergency situations.

What We're Looking For

We are seeking a positive, dependable leader who enjoys mentoring teachers, building relationships with families, and helping create an exceptional early learning environment. The ideal candidate is organized, proactive, flexible, and willing to jump in wherever needed to support the success of the center.

Qualifications

• Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE) with the PA Director’s Credential required OR a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE), Child Development, or a related field
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in early childhood education
• At least 2 years in a leadership or managerial role
• Demonstrated experience working within Keystone STARS and/or NAEYC accreditation frameworks preferred
• Strong understanding of child development principles and best practices
• Excellent organizational, communication, and leadership skills
• Commitment to ongoing professional development and required trainings

Benefits

• Competitive salary ($40,000–$50,000 based on experience)
• Performance-driven bonus structure
• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Childcare discounts
• Training & development opportunities
• Opportunity for advancement
• and more!

Why Join Ducklings?

• Lead an established center positioned for continued growth and quality advancement
• Partner directly with ownership to shape strategy and long-term vision
• Be part of a culture that values professionalism, accountability, and strong relationships
• Make a measurable impact in a high-quality early learning environment

If you are a strong leader who enjoys coaching teachers, maintaining high standards, and building meaningful relationships with families, we would love to connect.

Ducklings Early Learning Center is independently owned and operated by a franchisee dedicated to excellence in early childhood education. All hiring decisions for this location are made by the local ownership team.

Ducklings Early Learning Center is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and children under our care.

Pay: $40,000.00 - $50,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Education:

• Associate (Preferred)

Experience:

• Childcare Director: 2 years (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Oxford, PA 19363 (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $40,000 - $50,000