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Center Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lead the Way as a Center Director at Riverstone! Are you a natural leader with a passion for creating a positive and thriving environment? Riverstone, located in beautiful Sugar Land, TX, is seeking ...

Center Director

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$52K - $72K/yr

Apply now to join our leadership team at Kiddie Academy as the Center Director ! We have an awesome work culture , and if you're the right candidate, you'll fit right in. We offer growth-oriented ...

Vision insurance Center Director (Early Childhood Education) / Co-Director - Dedham Location: The Learning Experience - Dedham, MA Pay: $70,000-$80,000 per year (based on experience) Schedule ...

Center Director

Hamilton, MA · On-site

$68K - $76K/yr

As the Center Director, you will serve as the primary leader of the school, overseeing daily operations, staff management, regulatory compliance, enrollment growth, and program quality. You will be ...

Center Director

Hamilton, MA · On-site

$46K - $64K/yr

As the Center Director, you will serve as the primary leader of the school, overseeing daily operations, staff management, regulatory compliance, enrollment growth, and program quality. You will be ...

As the Center Director, you will serve as the primary leader of the school, overseeing daily operations, staff management, regulatory compliance, enrollment growth, and program quality. You will be ...

Center Director

Bellevue, WA

$52K - $72K/yr

Apply now to join our leadership team at Kiddie Academy as the Center Director ! We have an awesome work culture , and if you're the right candidate, you'll fit right in. We offer growth-oriented ...

Center Director

Orlando, FL · On-site

$40K - $45K/yr

We set ourselves apart by providing our centers, instructors, and center directors with: * A rewarding leadership opportunity to transform the lives of 2nd-12th grade students * A full-time, salaried ...

Center Director

Painted Post, NY · On-site

$65K - $82K/yr

Center Director Reports to: Executive Director Employment Status: Full-Time; Exempt Primary Location: Painted Post (111 Canada Road, Painted Post, NY 14870) Secondary Location: Corning (107 Arthur ...

Center Director

Painted Post, NY · On-site

$65K - $82K/yr

Center Director Reports to: Executive Director Employment Status: Full-Time; Exempt Primary Location: Painted Post (111 Canada Road, Painted Post, NY 14870) Secondary Location: Corning (107 Arthur ...

Center Director

Columbia, MD · On-site

$50K - $60K/yr

Center Director Are you an energetic, flexible team player with a positive attitude and willingness to go beyond the scope of the job to help your team meet its objectives? Are you looking for a ...

Center Director

Brighton, MI · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

We set ourselves apart by providing our centers, instructors, and center directors with: * A rewarding leadership opportunity to transform the lives of K-12th grade students * A full-time, salaried ...

Vision insurance Center Director / Co-Director (Early Childhood Education) - Natick Location: The Learning Experience - Natick, MA Pay: $70,000-$80,000 per year (based on experience) Schedule ...

Center Director

Chelsea, MI · On-site

$44K - $61K/yr

Center Directors educate parents, teachers, and community leaders on the incredible value of early childhood education and make that value come to life for the children in their center. When you join ...

Center Director

Farmington Hills, MI

$46K - $63K/yr

Center Directors educate parents, teachers, and community leaders on the incredible value of early childhood education and make that value come to life for the children in their center. When you join ...

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Center Director information

See salary details

$32.5K

$61.8K

$126.5K

How much do center director jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for center director in the United States is $61,840.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,000.00 and $64,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying job in childcare?

The highest paying roles in childcare often include executive positions such as Childcare Center Directors or Owners, who oversee multiple facilities and manage budgets, staff, and compliance. These roles typically require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and strong leadership skills, with salaries varying based on location and size of the organization.

What jobs make around $100,000 a year?

Center Directors in large organizations or healthcare facilities often earn around $100,000 annually, especially with experience and advanced management skills. Other roles that can reach this salary level include project managers, IT managers, and senior financial analysts, typically requiring relevant certifications and leadership abilities.

What is the hardest job in film?

The hardest job in film often varies, but many consider the role of a film director to be among the most challenging due to the high level of responsibility, creative pressure, and need for strong leadership skills. Other demanding roles include cinematographers and production managers, who handle complex technical and logistical tasks under tight deadlines. Success in these positions requires extensive experience, collaboration, and resilience.

What is the difference between Center Director vs Program Coordinator?

AspectCenter DirectorProgram Coordinator
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree often required; experience in management or educationBachelor's degree in related field; experience in program management or coordination
Work EnvironmentOversees entire center operations, staff, and budgetsSupports specific programs, manages activities, and assists with implementation
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in educational, childcare, or community centersCommon in nonprofit, educational, and community service organizations

The main difference between a Center Director and a Program Coordinator lies in scope and responsibilities. The Center Director manages the entire center's operations, staff, and strategic planning, while the Program Coordinator focuses on specific programs or activities within the center. Both roles require relevant experience and education, but the Center Director holds a broader leadership position.

What Does a Center Director Do?

A center director is in charge of running a center efficiently and effectively. Their responsibilities are to allocate funds, recruit and train new staff, establish policies and procedures, and manage programs for youth or adults. A center director may also assist clients as needed, oversee equipment maintenance, ensure that state safety regulations are followed, and develop marketing strategies to bring in new clients. This position can be found in community, child care, learning, and career centers. The requirements to become a center director vary depending on the type of organization, but often include a bachelor's degree.

What are Center Directors?

Center Directors are professionals responsible for overseeing the daily operations, administration, and strategic planning of a specific center, such as a childcare facility, community center, or educational institution. They manage staff, budgets, and programs to ensure the center runs smoothly and meets its goals. Center Directors often serve as the main point of contact for parents, clients, and stakeholders, and are responsible for ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and standards. Their leadership is crucial in creating a safe, productive, and positive environment for both staff and participants.

How does a Center Director typically balance administrative duties with team leadership responsibilities?

Center Directors often juggle a mix of administrative tasks—such as budgeting, compliance, and reporting—with hands-on leadership, including mentoring staff and fostering a positive work environment. Effective directors prioritize clear communication and delegate routine tasks when possible, allowing them to focus on strategic planning and team development. They regularly hold meetings to align staff on center goals and address challenges, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations while also driving long-term growth. Balancing these roles requires strong organizational skills and adaptability, as the needs of the center and its team can shift quickly.

What does a center director do?

A center director oversees the daily operations of a facility or organization, manages staff, ensures compliance with policies, and maintains a safe and productive environment. They often handle budgeting, program development, and community relations to support the organization's goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Center Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Center Director, you need strong leadership abilities, organizational management experience, and typically a bachelor's or master's degree in education, business, or a related field. Familiarity with budgeting software, compliance systems, and staff scheduling platforms is often required. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and team-building skills help a Center Director effectively manage staff and foster a positive environment. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and a high standard of service within the center.
What cities are hiring for Center Director jobs? Cities with the most Center Director job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Center jobs? The most popular types of Center jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Center Director jobs? The top employers for Center Director jobs are:
What states have the most Center Director jobs? States with the most job openings for Center Director jobs include:
Infographic showing various Center Director job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,840 per year, or $29.7 per hour.

$36K - $45K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description


About This Role

The Center Director is responsible for ensuring the health, safety, and quality of education, for all children within the center's care. The Center Director is directly accountable for overall operational management in accordance with well-established guidelines, including curriculum development, staff and facilities management, legal and budgetary considerations, and long range planning. The Center Director ensures that the needs of the students and the goals of the center are met appropriately.


What You'll Do
  • Establish quality vision for the center. Manage adherence to quality standards in accordance with the vision and with state and local requirements. Maintain quality effectiveness measurements.
  • Develop general educational curriculum; collaborate with staff to develop positive learning activities; manage adherence to state and local regulations.
  • Maintain student records in accordance with established enrollment procedures and guidelines.
  • Maintain communications with parents of current and prospective students through direct conversation, newsletters and parent handbook; implement community outreach activities to maintain and promote positive community relationships.
  • Approve menus and food purchases.
  • Maintain positive relationships with regulatory agencies; ensure legal and financial compliance.
  • Oversee all office functions including payroll, accounts payable and receivable, tuition billing and payment, human resources and personnel management (staff supervision) and purchasing.
  • Resolve conflicts (including corrective action when necessary) to ensure a positive experience for everyone.
  • Manage budget planning and review.
  • Establish illness and emergency procedures; ensure staff is trained appropriately.
  • Implement strategic plan and goals in keeping with mission of program.
  • Maintain personal professional development plan to ensure continuous quality improvement.

Requirements
  • Minimum of 3 years of supervisory experience.
  • 5 years of direct professional experience in an early childhood setting.
  • High energy.
  • 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.
  • Strong finance and budgeting skills.
  • Excellent leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
  • Infant/child CPR and First Aid certification.
  • Must clear full background check.
  • Must pass health screening.
  • Bachelor’s Degree or Master’s Degree in early childhood education or related field of study with a minimum of 30 credits in ECE.

Benefits
  • Salary

    Paid Vacation