Director of Childcare (Main Branch)

Ready to lead a high-quality early learning program where children, families, and staff can thrive?

The Penobscot Bay YMCA is seeking an experienced and passionate Childcare Director to lead our early childhood programs at our Main Branch in Rockport, Maine. This position provides both strategic and operational leadership for our licensed childcare programs, ensuring a safe, nurturing, and enriching environment for children while supporting and developing a dedicated team of educators.

As a mission-driven leader, you will oversee daily operations, staff development, family engagement, enrollment, program quality, and regulatory compliance. This is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on children, families, and the broader community through high-quality early childhood education.

The Penobscot Bay YMCA is a community cornerstone where all people can connect, grow, and thrive. In this role, you bring that mission to life every day for the children and families we serve.

What You’ll Do

• Lead daily operations of the childcare program, ensuring a high-quality experience for children and families
• Supervise, coach, train, and develop childcare staff through ongoing support and professional development
• Provide classroom support and coverage as needed
• Guide implementation of age-appropriate curriculum that supports children's development
• Maintain a safe, clean, and nurturing environment
• Oversee scheduling, enrollment, and day-to-day program operations
• Build strong, responsive relationships with families
• Maintain accurate records, including attendance, incidents, and licensing documentation
• Develop and monitor program budgets with support from senior leadership
• Lead staff meetings, trainings, and team development initiatives
• Support community engagement, family events, and YMCA fundraising activities
• Connect families with YMCA programs and resources

Essential Functions

• Direct and oversee early learning programs to ensure high-quality services and a safe learning environment
• Ensure compliance with Maine licensing regulations, accreditation standards, and YMCA policies
• Monitor program quality, participation, and outcomes, making improvements as needed
• Respond appropriately to medical situations, behavioral concerns, and emergencies
• Foster an inclusive, welcoming environment for children, families, and staff
• Support outreach efforts, enrollment growth, and community partnerships
• Perform additional duties as needed to support overall program success

Qualifications

• 
  Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field OR Associate's degree and at least two years of direct childcare experience
• Two years of management or supervisory experience preferred
• Strong understanding of child development, classroom practices, and childcare licensing requirements
• Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment
• Commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive environment
• Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office and Google Workspace
• Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups of people

Required trainings include Mandated Reporter and YMCA Child Abuse Prevention Training (completed during onboarding), with CPR, First Aid, AED, and Bloodborne Pathogens certification required within 30 days of hire.

Schedule & Additional Benefits

• Monday–Friday daytime schedule
• Monthly State of Maine stipend (currently $240 ) in addition to base pay
• Full-time exempt position

Why Join the Y?

• Competitive salary: $58,000–$62,500 depending on experience
• Comprehensive health insurance options
• Vision and dental insurance available
• Employer-paid life insurance
• YMCA Retirement Fund participation with potential eligibility for a 10% YMCA contribution after 2 years
• Generous PTO package
• Twelve paid holidays annually
• Complimentary family YMCA membership
• 20% discount on YMCA programs
• Monthly State of Maine childcare workforce stipend (currently $240 per month)
• Meaningful work that directly impacts children, families, and the community

Work Environment & Physical Demands

This is an active, hands-on leadership role. The Director should be able to:

• Lift up to 40 pounds as needed
• Bend, kneel, twist, and move throughout the day
• Actively supervise children in indoor and outdoor settings
• Respond quickly and appropriately to safety needs
• Work outdoors in all seasons

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.