Assistant Director - Security Benefit Academy

The Assistant Director of Security Benefit Academy (SBA) reports directly to the Director and is based at our corporate headquarters in Topeka, Kansas. SBA is a vital part of Security Benefit and Zinnia, offering early care and education services that support the broader mission of our organization. In this role, the Assistant Director will assist in the overall management and day-to-day operations of SBA. Key responsibilities include supporting the development of high-quality programs aligned with the standards of the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE). This role also emphasizes building and maintaining professional, positive relationships with children, families, and staff. SBA serves children from six weeks to six years old and offers a Summer Camp program for school-age children. The center has a maximum capacity of 152 children and operates Monday through Friday, from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.   Key Responsibilities: Leadership & Professionalism Model exemplary professionalism, work ethic, and integrity in all aspects of work. Establish and maintain positive, respectful, and professional relationships with children, families, colleagues, and the broader childcare community. Ensure continuity of Academy operations in the absence of the Director. Positively support and uphold SBA’s policies and philosophy to SBA staff. Staff Supervision & Development Assist in recruiting, hiring, supervising, and coaching Academy employees. Supervise childcare staff to ensure a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for children. Conduct regular one-on-one meetings with team members to provide support, guidance, and coaching. Conduct performance planning and annual appraisals, ensuring staff meet industry standards and center needs. Guide and support staff in professional growth and effective communication, including handling sensitive issues with families. Child Development & Classroom Support Demonstrate expertise in child development across age groups and support teachers in implementing a developmentally appropriate curriculum aligned with SBA, NAEYC, and KDHE guidelines. Maintain an active presence in classrooms and step in as a primary caregiver when needed. Conduct regular classroom observations and develop action plans to ensure high-quality care and teaching. Support transitions between units, ensuring children are developmentally ready and families are well-informed. Collaborate with Director and Unit Managers to plan daily staffing schedules for all classrooms and ensure appropriate coverage to meet licensing requirements. Maintain required teacher to student ratios in all classrooms; step in to cover if needed. Health & Safety Ensure the safety and supervision of children at all times, meeting all physical and regulatory demands of the position. Ensure all faculty are knowledgeable of and consistently adhere to KDHE, SBA and SB regulations and policies. Ensure all faculty are knowledgeable of and consistently adhere to federal, state, local, and SBA health, safety, emergency care and sanitation protocols to maintain the safety and well-being of children at all times. Oversee adherence to all health, safety, sanitation, and emergency protocols, including SBA’s Emergency Care Plan and Discipline Policy. Ensure timely and accurate documentation and communication of any incidents affecting child welfare, following SBA and state regulations regarding abuse or neglect.   Family Engagement & Community Involvement Participate in enrollment activities, including meeting prospective families and conducting facility tours. Assist in planning and leading SBA events, staff meetings, and educational programs. Support families by guiding staff in making appropriate referrals to community services. Administrative Support Manage the child waiting list and primary care list to ensure timely and appropriate enrollment. Support center budgeting processes and become familiar with SBA’s financial planning. Maintain flexibility in scheduling and be available to open or close the center as needed. Ensure all required documentation for staff and children is accurately completed and properly filed. Qualifications Education & Credentials Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education preferred; related degrees in Child Development, Early Childhood Education, Child and Family Studies, or CDA may also be considered. Additional certifications or training in child development and early education are a plus. Experience Minimum of 5 years of verifiable experience in a licensed childcare center or a supervised teaching practicum. Previous management and supervisory experience in an early childhood education setting is required. Knowledge & Skills Strong understanding of state regulations and licensing requirements to ensure compliance related to child welfare and center operations. Proven ability to lead educators in implementing developmentally appropriate curricula and practices. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, strong organizational abilities, and the interpersonal skills necessary to work positively with a diverse group of children, families, and staff—especially during stressful situations. Demonstrated passion for early childhood education and a patient, nurturing approach with children and families. Physical & Safety Requirements Ability to ensure children's safety at all times while performing job responsibilities. Must be able to frequently lift, hold, or move children weighing between 10 to 50 pounds, with occasional tasks involving children over 50 pounds. Ability to supervise and engage with groups of children outdoors for extended periods, in various weather conditions. Physical capability to achieve a full range of motion, including lifting, squatting, reaching, climbing, and sitting on the floor. Must be able to respond immediately and appropriately to emergencies or unexpected situations. Maintain a high level of physical and mental alertness, energy, and focus to meet the demands of the role. Must be able to follow SBA’s Emergency Care Plan and exercise sound judgment to prevent injury or harm to others.   Security Benefit offers a competitive compensation and benefit package. Interested, qualified candidates should apply online at www.securitybenefit.com EOE