Child Care Director

The Child Care Director at the Lake County YMCA oversees the planning, management, and growth of our child care programs, including school-aged care and child watch. This role provides leadership for staff, ensures compliance with licensing and YMCA standards, manages program budgets, and fosters a safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate environment for children. The Child Care Director also drives program innovation, community partnerships, and family engagement, supporting the YMCA’s mission to nurture the potential of every child.

• Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, Child Development, Education, Human Services, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Three or more years’ related experience as a coordinator or supervisor of childcare programs.
• Must be at least 21 years of age
• Requirements within 30 days of hire include completion of: Child Abuse Prevention for Supervisory Staff; Working with Program Volunteers; CPR; First Aid; AED; Communicable Diseases; Bloodborne Pathogens.
• Fulfillment of any state required hiring standards and completion of YMCA program specific certifications.
• Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups of people from all social and economic segments of
  the community.

• Manage, direct, and coordinate assigned child care programs including but not limited to school aged child care and child watch. Ensure programs are high quality, developmentally appropriate, and align with YMCA and Ohio DCY licensing requirements.
• Develop and expand child care programs in alignment with the YMCA’s strategic plan. Identify opportunities for innovation, partnerships, and grant funding to enhance program reach and impact.
• Recruit, hire, train, develop, schedule, and evaluate staff. Maintain accurate personnel records, certifications, and schedules. Foster a positive team environment that supports staff engagement
• Develop, manage, and monitor program budgets. Ensure financial sustainability through proper fee collection and adherence to YMCA financial policies.
• Ensure compliance with all state and local childcare licensing regulations, YMCA policies, and safety procedures. Maintain accurate program documentation and ensure all YMCA program standards are met.
• Oversee the maintenance and cleanliness of assigned program spaces and equipment. Ensure the environment is safe, welcoming, and supports healthy living and positive youth development.
• Support marketing and promotional efforts, including program registration and scholarship processes. Help increase program visibility and participation within the community.
• Collaborate with YMCA departments and staff across the association to ensure consistency, share best practices, and enhance overall program quality.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with licensing agencies, school administrators, parents, and community partners. Address inquiries and concerns in a professional and timely manner.
• Provide leadership for the YMCA’s annual fundraising campaign and participate in assigned committees.
• Plan and implement special events and activities for children and families.
• Track and analyze program data, including participation, outcomes, and use the data to improve program effectiveness and growth.
• Respond promptly and professionally to all members and community inquiries and concerns.
• Provide direct program support, including covering shifts as needed to maintain required staff-to-child ratios.
• Fulfill responsibilities as a mandated reporter for child abuse and neglect, following all policies and procedures.
• Demonstrate and model the YMCA’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, responsibility, and growth mindset in all aspects of your work.