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Child Care Licensing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Child Care Director

Wautoma, WI · On-site

$44K - $54K/yr

Child Care Director Reports To: Waushara Community YMCA Branch Executive Department: Child Care ... Experience with state licensing inspections, accreditation processes, and regulatory compliance.

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Home Child Care Assistant

Glenview, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $20/hr

Company Description Family Group Home Child Care (licensed for 12 kids infant-5 yrs plus 4 school age)

Be Seen First

Home Child Care Assistant

Glenview, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $20/hr

Company Description Family Group Home Child Care (licensed for 12 kids infant-5 yrs plus 4 school age)

Child Care Assistant

Ottumwa, IA · On-site

$14.03 - $16.48/hr

Proof of auto insurance and valid drivers license is required if driving for the agency. PRE ... Child Care Assistant UNIT: Child Development REPORTS TO: Head Start Center Supervisor FLSA STATUS:

Displays sound judgement and demonstrates a working knowledge of and complies with state licensing ... Minimum 1 year child care experience * CDA Benefits * Medical and Dental Benefits * State and Local ...

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Child Care Licensing information

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How much do child care licensing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for child care licensing in the United States is $17.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a child care licensing specialist?

To become a child care licensing specialist, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant experience in child care or licensing, and knowledge of state regulations. Some states require specific certifications or training in child development or licensing procedures. Strong communication, attention to detail, and understanding of safety standards are essential for the role.

What is the difference between Child Care Licensing vs Child Care Provider?

AspectChild Care LicensingChild Care Provider
Credentials/CertificationsLicensing requirements, background checks, trainingQualifications vary; may include certifications or experience
Work EnvironmentRegulatory oversight, licensing offices, compliance inspectionsChild care centers, home-based care, schools
Employer/Industry UsageGovernment agencies, licensing boardsPrivate providers, daycare centers, family homes
Search/Comparison IntentUnderstanding licensing requirements, regulationsFinding child care services, providers

Child Care Licensing focuses on regulating and ensuring compliance of child care facilities through licensing and inspections. Child Care Providers are the individuals or organizations offering child care services. While licensing ensures standards are met, providers are the actual caregivers. Both roles are interconnected but serve different functions within the child care industry.

What are some of the most common challenges faced by child care licensing specialists in their daily work?

Child Care Licensing specialists often encounter challenges such as balancing thorough inspections with maintaining positive relationships with child care providers. They must stay up-to-date with evolving regulations and ensure consistent enforcement across diverse settings. Additionally, specialists frequently deal with sensitive situations involving non-compliance, where clear communication and problem-solving skills are essential. Managing a large caseload and extensive documentation can also be demanding, so strong organizational skills are beneficial in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a child care licensing specialist?

To thrive as a Child Care Licensing Specialist, you need a background in early childhood education, social work, or a related field, along with knowledge of state and federal child care regulations. Familiarity with case management software, inspection checklists, and documentation systems is often required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and conflict resolution skills help in effectively working with child care providers and ensuring compliance. These abilities are crucial for maintaining safe, high-quality child care environments and upholding regulatory standards.

What is child care licensing?

Child care licensing is the process by which state or local government agencies regulate child care providers to ensure they meet specific health, safety, and educational standards. Licensing requirements typically include background checks, facility inspections, staff training, and adherence to child-to-staff ratios. The goal is to protect the well-being of children in care and provide parents with confidence in the quality and safety of child care programs. Licensed facilities are regularly monitored and must comply with regulations to maintain their license.

What are different job titles in child care licensing?

Job titles in child care licensing include Child Care Licensing Specialist, Licensing Inspector, Licensing Coordinator, and Child Care Program Consultant. These roles typically involve inspecting facilities, ensuring compliance with regulations, and supporting licensed providers, often requiring knowledge of state laws and relevant certifications.

How do you get certified to work at a child care licensing agency?

Child care licensing agencies typically require applicants to have relevant education or experience in early childhood education or child development, complete specific training programs, and pass background checks. Certification or licensing requirements vary by jurisdiction but often include obtaining a state-issued credential or license related to child care regulation or inspection.
More about Child Care Licensing jobs
What cities are hiring for Child Care Licensing jobs? Cities with the most Child Care Licensing job openings:
What states have the most Child Care Licensing jobs? States with the most job openings for Child Care Licensing jobs include:
Infographic showing various Child Care Licensing job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,519 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

$44K - $54K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Waushara Community YMCA
Position Title: Child Care Director
Reports To: Waushara Community YMCA Branch Executive
Department: Child Care & Preschool
PAY: $44,000 -$54,000/year
BENEFITS:
  • Complimentary Individual or Household YMCA Membership
  • 50% Employee and Dependents Discount on YMCA Programs
  • 40% Child Care Discount
  • CPR/AED/First Aid Certification Provided Upon Employment
  • Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision, retirement, and paid time off.

GENERAL FUNCTION
Under the direction of the Branch executive with support from the Senior Director of Child Care, the Child Care Services Director provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for all Child Care and Preschool programs. This position is responsible for ensuring safe, high-quality, mission-driven programming while maintaining compliance with Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF) licensing regulations, YMCA standards, accreditation requirements, and organizational policies.
The Child Care Services Director oversees program development, staff leadership, family engagement, budgeting, risk management, child abuse prevention, and continuous program improvement. This position serves as a member of the YMCA leadership team and promotes a culture of safety, excellence, collaboration, and accountability while advancing the YMCA's mission of strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education & Experience
  • Must meet Wisconsin DCF qualifications for a Child Care Center Director under DCF 251.
  • Bachelor's degree preferred in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Education, Human Services, or a related field.
  • Minimum of two years of progressively responsible experience in licensed childcare or early childhood education.
  • Previous supervisory and leadership experience preferred.
  • Experience managing department budgets and financial performance.
  • Experience with state licensing inspections, accreditation processes, and regulatory compliance.
  • Experience recruiting, supervising, training, and developing staff and volunteers.

Certifications
  • CPR/AED/First Aid Certification (within 60 days of employment)
  • YMCA New Employee Orientation
  • Child Abuse Prevention Training
  • Bloodborne Pathogens Training
  • OSHA and Safety Training
  • Wisconsin DCF required continuing education
  • Maintain all certifications and professional development required by the YMCA and state licensing.

Knowledge & Skills
  • Thorough knowledge of Wisconsin DCF Child Care Licensing Rules.
  • Knowledge of child growth and development.
  • Strong understanding of risk management and child abuse prevention practices.
  • Knowledge of positive behavior guidance and classroom management.
  • Budget development and financial management.
  • Excellent leadership and staff development skills.
  • Strong conflict resolution and problem-solving abilities.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Strong organizational and time management skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining attention to detail.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, childcare management software, and other technology platforms.

LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES
The Child Care Services Director demonstrates:
  • Integrity and ethical leadership
  • Professional judgment
  • Accountability
  • Initiative
  • Collaboration
  • Adaptability
  • Excellent customer service
  • Effective communication
  • Confidentiality
  • Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging
  • Commitment to the YMCA Core Values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Program Leadership & Administration
  • Provide leadership and oversight for all Child Care and Preschool programs.
  • Develop, implement, evaluate, and continuously improve programs and services.
  • Ensure programs meet YMCA quality standards, licensing requirements, accreditation standards, and community needs.
  • Develop annual department goals and action plans.
  • Evaluate participation trends and implement strategies to increase enrollment, retention, and program quality.
  • Ensure classrooms provide safe, welcoming, developmentally appropriate learning environments.
  • Maintain accurate program records and documentation.

Staff Leadership
  • Recruit, hire, onboard, supervise, coach, mentor, and evaluate full-time, part-time, seasonal, and substitute staff.
  • Develop staff schedules and ensure appropriate staffing levels.
  • Conduct regular observations, coaching sessions, and performance evaluations.
  • Facilitate staff meetings and ongoing professional development.
  • Promote employee engagement, recognition, and retention.
  • Ensure all staff complete required certifications and mandatory trainings.

Child Safety & Risk Management
  • Ensure compliance with all YMCA Child Abuse Prevention Policies.
  • Promote a culture of child safety through active supervision and accountability.
  • Conduct routine program observations and safety audits.
  • Ensure mandatory reporting requirements are followed.
  • Investigate incidents and complete required documentation.
  • Maintain emergency preparedness procedures and Emergency Action Plans.
  • Ensure compliance with OSHA, licensing, and YMCA risk management standards.
  • Monitor facilities, classrooms, playgrounds, and equipment to ensure safe operating conditions.

Licensing & Compliance
  • Maintain compliance with Wisconsin DCF Child Care Licensing Rules.
  • Coordinate licensing inspections and accreditation visits.
  • Maintain required licensing documentation and staff records.
  • Ensure staff-to-child ratios remain compliant.
  • Monitor continuing education requirements.
  • Implement corrective action plans as needed.

Financial Management
  • Develop and administer department budgets.
  • Monitor revenues and expenditures.
  • Recommend pricing strategies and program improvements.
  • Monitor payroll and staffing costs.
  • Manage scholarship requests according to YMCA policies.
  • Purchase equipment and supplies within approved budgets.

Family & Community Engagement
  • Build positive relationships with children, families, staff, and community partners.
  • Respond promptly and professionally to parent questions and concerns.
  • Collaborate with schools, colleges, licensing agencies, and community organizations.
  • Promote YMCA programs through community outreach and relationship building.
  • Assist with marketing efforts and member communications.

Organizational Leadership
  • Serve as an active member of the YMCA Leadership Team.
  • Support YMCA fundraising events and community initiatives.
  • Demonstrate and communicate the YMCA mission, vision, values, and strategic priorities.
  • Collaborate with other departments to enhance member experience.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned.

Requirements
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
The employee must be able to:
  • Supervise children through sight and sound.
  • Move throughout classrooms, playgrounds, and program areas.
  • Frequently stand, walk, bend, kneel, squat, climb, and reach.
  • Lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds.
  • Participate in classroom activities and outdoor programming.
  • Respond quickly during emergencies.

PERFORMANCE EXPECTATIONS
Success in this position is demonstrated through:
  • Full compliance with Wisconsin DCF licensing requirements.
  • Consistent implementation of YMCA Child Abuse Prevention standards.
  • Safe, welcoming, and high-quality learning environments.
  • Strong staff recruitment, retention, and professional development.
  • Achievement of department budget and enrollment goals.
  • High family satisfaction and positive member experiences.
  • Strong collaboration with YMCA departments and community partners.
  • Accurate and timely completion of documentation and reports.
  • Continuous improvement of program quality and operational efficiency.
  • Leadership that reflects the YMCA mission and core values.

Salary Description
$44,000 - $54,000/year