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Child Care Program Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Child Care Director

Menasha, WI · On-site

$43K - $58K/yr

The Child Care Director is responsible for the development and administration of the Children ... Accurately manage the Child & Adult Care Food program (CACFP) per state requirements including all ...

Area Child Care Director

Reynoldsburg, OH · On-site

$38K - $52K/yr

The YMCA of Central Ohio is hiring an Area Child Care Director to support and strengthen our school-age child care programs in the Pickerington Local School District. This is more than a job-it's a ...

PROGRAM DIRECTOR

Santa Cruz, CA · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Participates in statewide and local advocacy efforts in support of child care services; involves ... The minimum requirements to obtain a Program Director Permit are: * BA degree with 24 Early ...

Description Foster Care Program Director Location: Cookeville, Tennessee (On-site / Community-based) Employment Type: Full-time Salary: $50k/year Date Posted: 08/06/2026 About the Role Clarvida is ...

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Child Care Center Director Higher Learning Child Care Academy, Inc.Location: Kings Mountain, North ... Program and Curriculum OversightMonitor the daily implementation of classroom curriculum.Support ...

Child Care Director

Wautoma, WI · On-site

$44K - $54K/yr

The Child Care Services Director oversees program development, staff leadership, family engagement, budgeting, risk management, child abuse prevention, and continuous program improvement. This ...

Director of Child Care

Shelby, NC · On-site

$10 - $15/hr

* Directs, organizes and administers child care programs. * Level 1 or 2 with atleast 3 years of experience working in either a 3 or 4 SCALES rated center. * A working knowledge of DCDEE licensing ...

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Child Care Program Director information

See salary details

$28.5K

$52.3K

$80.5K

How much do child care program director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for child care program director in the United States is $52,327.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,000.00 and $57,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a child care program director do?

A Child Care Program Director oversees the daily operations of child care centers or programs, ensuring a safe, educational, and nurturing environment for children. Their responsibilities include managing staff, developing curriculum, maintaining compliance with state regulations, and communicating with parents. They also handle budgeting, enrollment, and ensure that the program meets quality standards. Directors play a key role in setting the tone and culture of the organization, focusing on the well-being and development of every child in their care.

What are some common challenges faced by child care program directors, and how can they be addressed?

Child Care Program Directors often encounter challenges such as maintaining staff retention, ensuring regulatory compliance, and balancing administrative duties with direct program oversight. Addressing these challenges involves fostering a supportive work environment, providing ongoing professional development opportunities for staff, and staying updated on state licensing requirements. Effective communication with both staff and families also plays a key role in overcoming obstacles and promoting a positive, collaborative atmosphere within the program.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a child care program director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Child Care Program Director, you need expertise in early childhood education, program management, and staff supervision, often supported by a degree in education or a related field and relevant state licensing. Familiarity with child care management software, state regulatory systems, and first aid certification is typically required. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you build a positive environment for children, staff, and families. These competencies ensure safe, high-quality care and compliance with regulations, driving the success of the program.

What is the difference between Child Care Program Director vs Child Care Center Staff?

AspectChild Care Program DirectorChild Care Center Staff
ResponsibilitiesOversees program operations, staff management, compliance, and curriculum developmentProvides direct care, supervises children, and assists with daily activities
Required CredentialsEarly childhood education credentials, management experience often preferredChild development or early childhood education certification or CDA
Work EnvironmentAdministrative office and program oversightClassroom settings working directly with children
Employer & Industry UsageChild care centers, preschools, early education programsChild care centers, preschools, daycare facilities

The Child Care Program Director focuses on managing the overall program, staff, and compliance, while Child Care Center Staff provides direct care and support to children. Both roles require early childhood credentials, but the director's role is more administrative and supervisory, whereas staff work directly with children in daily activities.

What cities are hiring for Child Care Program Director jobs?

Cities with the most Child Care Program Director job openings:

What states have the most Child Care Program Director jobs?

States with the most job openings for Child Care Program Director jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Child Care Program Director jobs?

For Child Care Program Director jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Child Care Program Director job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,327 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Child Care Director

Menasha, WI • On-site

The Salvation Army
Non-Profits • 5 - 10K employees

$43K - $58K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Salvation Army rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 364 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

602nd of 790 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

The Children's Learning Center is a licensed day care in the state of Wisconsin for children ages 6 weeks to 12 years of age and is open year-round. We are open to all children, regardless of gender, race, religion, or national origin. Our programming gives emphasis to spiritual growth as a vital component of a child's development, adding values and blessings to their daily experiences. We are looking for teachers who strive to learn more to give their students the best possible experience.Apply today to make a difference in these children's lives!

The Child Care Director is responsible for the development and administration of the Children's Learning Center. Serves as a member of the Management Team of The Salvation Army, Fox Cities, works with all staff to support the mission, philosophy and objectives of the Salvation Army.

About the role:

  • Ensure that licensing rules are met and maintain licensure and any other certifications required for the child care. Ensure forms pertaining to building and grounds, vehicles, fire inspections as they relate to Day Care licensing guidelines are maintained.
  • Create and maintain an environment for staff and children using resources, including YoungStar consultants, that will encourage growth in staff and people being served to continually create a higher quality childcare environment.
  • Recruit staff and make recommendations for hiring; schedules and supervises Learning Center staff. Conduct annual employee consultations for each employee.
  • Lead development, evaluation and updating of curriculum, in consultation with the corps officers and Advisory Board Child Care committee. Ensure that curriculum is in keeping with the Salvation Army mission and philosophy.
  • Oversee registration and intake of children, and ensure parents are informed of policies, and guidelines.
  • Maintain effective relationships with parents and the community to foster understanding of the child care program and needs.
  • Work with the Corps Officer and staff to provide opportunities to bridge families into other programs and services offered through The Salvation Army.
  • Serve as liaison between the staff and Advisory Board, Corps Council and the Salvation Army child care.
  • Oversee the collection of fees and state co-pays in conjunction with the Business Administrator and Corps Officer. Practice safe money handling procedures (minimum of two staff present) whenever removing funds from parent payment box.
  • Accurately manage the Child & Adult Care Food program (CACFP) per state requirements including all expenditure reports, compliance issues, etc.
  • Develop and manage the budget for the child care program in cooperation with the Management Team and the Finance Committee.
  • Maintain cooperative and mutually helpful relationships with other educational institutions as well as Child Care Resource and Referral.
  • Organize and implement training of staff through in-services, staff meetings and other designated programs. Maintain and keep current the Program Handbook, in cooperation with Divisional Headquarters. Maintain and keep current the Emergency Procedures policies for the center.
  • Work with Salvation Army staff to ensure child care facilities are properly maintained.
  • Select, care and maintain equipment and materials in cooperation with child care staff. Keep inventory log current.
  • Ensure appropriate records and files are maintained. This includes maintaining the medical log book for children.

Education: Certificate or degree in child development/ kindergarten education, or elementary education.

Certifications: Maintain YoungStar Certified Director at level 12 or above; Valid driver's license with clearance to drive from TSA insurance is preferred.

Experience: Two years' experience in child care administration and operation. Experience teaching in a child care center or school environment.

The Salvation Army is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates who are back-to-work, US Veterans, people with disabilities, people who have been impacted by the justice system, and/or people without a college degree are encouraged to apply.

Who we are:

Our Mission: The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church. Our message is based on the Bible. Our ministry is motivated by the love of God. Our mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human need in His name without discrimination.

Why work for us?

The Salvation Army's brand promises to Do theMost Good - and it's our employees that help us get there. At every level, you can have a real impact on your community through the work done inside our walls every day.

We are as impassioned about our employees as we are about our mission to help anyone in need without discrimination. Our culture reflects this quality, which makes our offices a seriously great place to work. Just walk inside our doors and you'll quickly see that our employees are proud to support programs that make a difference.

The Salvation Army recognizes that peace of mind is important to employees and their families. Because of this, we offer :

  • Competitive Salary
  • Flexible schedules and a casual dress environment
  • Generous paid time off benefits (vacation, sick time, personal time, and 11 paid holidays)
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Employee Assistance Program, providing 24/7 support, resources, and referrals to help you in your work and personal life
  • Insurance benefits: excellent health, dental, vision, life, disability
    • Discounts available for pet insurance, auto insurance, and home insurance

Full-time employees scheduled to work 30 or more hours per week will be eligible for full benefits, including health, dental, vision and hearing benefits, basic and voluntary life benefits, holiday pay and paid time off, which is pro-rated based on their regularly scheduled work week.

Exempt Employees: Health, dental, vision, and hearing benefits, as well as basic and voluntary life benefits, will begin on the first day of the month following 30 days of employment.

Compensation:

At The Salvation Army - We honor the unique perspectives and contributions of every individual. We are dedicated to fair pay practices, ensuring equal compensation for equal work, regardless of gender, race, or other factors.

Be part of something meaningful. Whether you're supporting those in need, assisting with disaster relief, or working in areas like finance or fundraising, each role offers a chance to make a lasting impact. If you're looking to align your career with your values, explore opportunities at The Salvation Army and help us create a brighter, more inclusive future for all.

Compensation: $47,606 - $59,507/hour, based on experience.


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About Salvation Army

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

Industry

Non-profits, retail, amusement, gambling, and recreation and religious organizations

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Alexandria, VA, US