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Child Development Director Jobs in Alaska (NOW HIRING)

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Child Development Director information

See Alaska salary details

$17.2K

$103.1K

$191.7K

How much do child development director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for child development director in Alaska is $103,073.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,700.00 and $123,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Child Development Director do?

A Child Development Director oversees the daily operations of early childhood education programs, such as preschools or daycare centers. They are responsible for managing staff, developing curriculum, ensuring regulatory compliance, and fostering a safe and supportive learning environment for young children. Their role also includes communicating with parents, setting policies, and maintaining the overall quality of the program. In addition, Child Development Directors often handle budgeting and enrollment processes to ensure the center runs smoothly.

What are some common challenges faced by a Child Development Director, and how can they be effectively managed?

A Child Development Director often navigates challenges such as balancing administrative duties with fostering a positive, engaging environment for both children and staff. Managing staff turnover, maintaining compliance with state regulations, and ensuring high-quality curriculum implementation can also be demanding. Effective communication, ongoing staff training, and building strong relationships with parents and the community are essential strategies to address these challenges. Staying organized and proactive in problem-solving helps create a supportive and thriving learning environment.

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

To thrive as a Child Development Director, you need expertise in early childhood education, program management, and a relevant degree—often with state-specific director credentials. Knowledge of child assessment tools, curriculum planning software, and regulatory compliance systems is typically required. Leadership, strong communication, and relationship-building skills help foster positive environments for children, staff, and families. These abilities ensure high-quality programming, regulatory adherence, and supportive learning environments that promote healthy child development.

What is the difference between Child Development Director vs Preschool Director?

AspectChild Development DirectorPreschool Director
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's or master's in early childhood education or related field, along with experience in child developmentOften requires a high school diploma or associate's degree, with experience in preschool management
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple programs or facilities, focusing on child development policies and staff supervisionManages daily operations of a preschool, including staff, curriculum, and parent relations
Industry UsageUsed in non-profit, government, or large childcare organizationsCommon in private preschools and daycare centers

The Child Development Director typically has a broader scope, focusing on program development and child welfare across multiple settings, while the Preschool Director manages daily operations within a specific preschool. Both roles require early childhood education credentials but differ in scale and responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Child Development jobs in Alaska? The most popular types of Child Development jobs in Alaska are:
What job categories do people searching Child Development Director jobs in Alaska look for? The top searched job categories for Child Development Director jobs in Alaska are:
What cities in Alaska are hiring for Child Development Director jobs? Cities in Alaska with the most Child Development Director job openings:
Child Development Trainee

Child Development Trainee

Foundation Health, LLC

Fairbanks, AK • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Overview
Are you passionate about nurturing young minds and making a positive impact in early childhood education? We are seeking a dedicated Child Development Trainee to join our dynamic team and support the growth and development of young children. In this role, you will gain hands-on experience in creating engaging educational activities, observing developmental milestones, and implementing supportive strategies under the guidance of experienced professionals. If you are eager to contribute to a supportive learning environment and grow your skills in child development, we invite you to apply and be part of a team committed to shaping the future of our next generation.
Pay & Benefits:
  • Compensation: $20 hourly wage
  • Additional Pay: Shift Differential, Annual Increases, Paid Time Off
  • Benefits: medical, vision, dental, 401k with employer match
  • Education Benefits: FHP Tuition Assistance, Student Loan Forgiveness
  • Other Benefits: Onsite Gym, Wellness Programs, Discount programs
  • Schedule:
    Full-time, 40 hours per week, 5x8 hour day shifts

The goal of the Child Development Trainee program is to prepare staff for a future career as a Child Development Assistant. The program requires a 1-year commitment.
While in this program, trainee will work with Child Development Teachers and Assistants in a classroom setting with children in the same age group who are at similar developmental levels. Teaching staff and trainee will engage in the pursuit of personal and department-wide continuous quality improvement for The Learning Center. Trainee will be required to earn their Child Development Associate credential in the first six (6) months of the job. Foundation Health will cover the costs of earning the CDA (Child Development Associate) through Thread. Tuition and fees for the participants will be covered by Foundation Health Partners in return for a 1-year commitment to full-time employment. If commitment is not fulfilled the participant will be required to repay the cost of tuition and fees to Foundation Health Partners.
Responsibilities
  1. Assists Child Development Assistant or Teacher with planning and implementing the chosen curriculum. Understands child directed learning and play based practice. Classroom planning is based on objective observation and is responsive to the needs of the enrolled children. Rotation and implementation of classroom environments will be required. Classroom environments will reflect a Reggio Emilia approach as well as research based best practice.
  1. Will learn to create daily lesson plans will meet all developmental domains supporting the whole child and helping children learn to live, play, and work cooperatively. Will be required to maintain classroom cleaning and upkeep as needed.
  1. Will learn how to provide care and learning in a setting that is safe, healthy, nurturing, and responsive to each child according to State of Alaska licensing standards. Will be required to promote teamwork with families and co-workers through reflective practice.
  1. Will develop knowledge that families and culture are of primary importance in children's development. Acknowledge a primary responsibility to bring about communication, cooperation and collaboration between the home and program in ways that enhance the child's development.
  1. Continuous quality improvement will be prioritized through participation in quality initiatives and other learning opportunities.
  1. Will be required to meet State of Alaska Child Care Licensing, and mandatory TLC (The Learning Center) requirements for continuing education and training.

Performs all functions according to State of Alaska licensing standards.
NOTE: The essential functions are intended to describe the general content of and requirements of this position and are not intended to be an exhaustive statement of duties. Specific tasks or responsibilities will be documented as outlined by the incumbent's immediate manager.
Qualifications
High School Diploma or GED. Must be at least 18 years of age. Must be able to communicate effectively in both oral and written formats.
Must be able to work independently as well as in a team environment. Must be able to accommodate scheduling adjustments, off-shifts, holiday, and weekend work assignments.
Must possess the intent to become a Child Dev Assist or Child Dev Teacher, as well a desire to grow their career within the organization. Requires a 1-year commitment to Foundation Health Partners after earning Child Development Associate credential.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Current enrollment in a Childhood Development Program.
Experience with child development and learning of children birth through kindergarten; family and community relationships; observing, documenting, and assessing young children; teaching and learning; and professional practices or development.