Early Childhood Center Director

Since 2015, The Playing Field has served children from a wide range of socio-economic backgrounds-including those experiencing homelessness-alongside peers from more advantaged families. In 2025, we're proud to have opened a new child care facility on Madison's east side, and we're looking for a passionate, experienced Director to join us.

We are seeking a passionate and experienced Early Childhood Center Director to lead our team of educators and staff. The Director will oversee daily operations, ensure compliance with state regulations, foster a positive learning environment, and build strong relationships ensuring that the needs of the families, children and staff, as well as the goals of the center are met appropriately.

What Makes Us Different:

• Mission-Driven Work: Support children impacted by trauma while building strong, lasting relationships with families.
• Low Ratios: We maintain very low child-to-teacher ratios to ensure high-quality care.
• Professional Growth: Extensive training, coaching, and opportunities for career advancement.
• Continuity of Care: Our model promotes strong attachments by keeping teachers with the same group of children as long as possible.
• Inclusive Culture: We value diversity and seek team members who reflect the families we serve.

Benefits Include:

• Competitive salary: $75,00-80,000/year
• $1,000 sign-on bonus after successful completion of probationary period
• Up to 20 days of PTO annually, plus 9 paid holidays
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Life Insurance, short-term and long-term disability insurance
• 3% employer-matched Simple IRA retirement plan

What We're Looking For:

• Reliable, professional, and eager to learn
• Committed to high standards in early childhood education
• Required:
  • Bachelor's degree in ECE or closely related field (Master's preferred)
  • Certificate from The Wisconsin Registry (We can assist in obtaining this if needed)
  • Minimum of 3 years of supervisory experience.
  • Strong oral and written communications skills; technology skills.
  • Ability to work well with others (staff, children, and parents) and to foster a team environment.
  • A strong understanding of child development.
  • Understanding of finance and budgeting.
  • Excellent leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Preferred:
  • Wisconsin DPI licensure in early education

The Playing Field is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply and help us reflect the rich diversity of the families we serve.