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Child Development Director Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Learning Care Group, Inc.

Center Director

Nashville, TN · On-site

$45K - $62K/yr

In a Center Director, we look for committed individuals who want to have a positive impact in the ... child development in a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment. As experts in childcare and early ...

Learning Care Group, Inc.

Center Director

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$39K - $54K/yr

In a Center Director, we look for committed individuals who want to have a positive impact in the ... child development in a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment. As experts in childcare and early ...

CNIC Careers

CYP Direct Care Supervisor

Millington, TN · On-site

$54K/yr

... Director in providing routine supervisory oversight, support and instruction for CYP Direct Care Professionals in Child Development Centers (CDC) and School Age Care (SAC) Programs. The CYP Direct ...

The Georgetown University

$19.80 - $24.20/hr

Implements developmentally- and age-appropriate education activities and nurturing care * Creates ... This position reports to the Director of Georgetown Law Early Learning Center. The position also ...

Coalition for Kids Inc

SITE DIRECTOR

Johnson City, TN · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Ensure that the program promotes the development of each child's spiritual, physical, social ... The Site Director is to plan and implement programs and build effective relationships with staff ...

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All JobsChild Development JobsChild Development Director JobsChild Development Director Jobs in Tennessee

Child Development Director information

See Tennessee salary details

$14.5K

$86.9K

$161.6K

How much do child development director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for child development director in Tennessee is $86,867.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,200.00 and $103,900.00 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 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 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 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 Tennessee?

The most popular types of Child Development jobs in Tennessee are:

What are popular job titles related to Child Development Director jobs in Tennessee?

For Child Development Director jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Child Development Director jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Child Development Director jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Child Development Director jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Child Development Director job openings:

Child Development Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Child Development Director job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,867 per year, or $41.8 per hour.

Early Childhood - Center Assistant Director

Kingdom Hearts Enrichment Center

Memphis, TN • On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 28 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Oversee the daily operations of the center, ensuring health, safety, and quality of education for children.

  • Develop, implement, and ensure compliance with educational curricula, regulations, and procedures related to health and emergencies.

  • Manage office functions, including payroll, billing, human resources, and purchasing, to ensure seamless center operations.

Job description


About This Role

The Center Assistant Director oversees the daily operations of the center, ensuring the health, safety, and quality of education for all children within its care. The role is directly accountable for operational management, curriculum development, staff and facilities management, and long-range planning in accordance with established guidelines and regulations. The successful candidate will have a deep understanding of child development and the ability to foster a positive, team-oriented environment that meets the needs of students and aligns with the center's goals.


What You'll Do
  • Define and implement a quality vision for the center, ensuring adherence to state and local requirements and maintaining effectiveness measurements.
  • Develop and implement educational curricula, collaborate with staff to design engaging learning activities, and ensure compliance with state and local regulations.
  • Maintain accurate and up-to-date student records in accordance with established enrollment procedures and guidelines.
  • Foster strong relationships with parents through regular communication, newsletters, and parent handbooks, while also promoting community outreach and partnerships.
  • Approve menus and food purchases to ensure the health and well-being of students.
  • Maintain positive relationships with regulatory agencies, ensuring compliance with legal and financial regulations.
  • Oversee all office functions, including payroll, accounts payable and receivable, tuition billing and payment, human resources, personnel management, and purchasing, to ensure seamless operations.
  • Resolve conflicts and address performance issues in a fair and constructive manner, prioritizing a positive experience for all stakeholders.
  • Develop and manage budgets, ensuring effective planning and resource allocation.
  • Establish and implement procedures for illness and emergencies, ensuring staff is trained and prepared to respond effectively.
  • Pursue and implement the center's strategic plan, aligning with its mission and goals to drive continuous quality improvement.
  • Develop and maintain a personal professional development plan to ensure ongoing learning and improvement.

Requirements
  • Ability to work well with others (staff, children, and parents) and to foster a team environment.
  • Infant/child CPR and First Aid certification.
  • Minimum of 3 years of supervisory experience.
  • Must clear full background check.
  • Must pass health screening.
  • CDA, Associate Degree in Early Childcare, Bachelor’s Degree, or Master’s Degree in early childhood education or related field of study with a minimum of 30 credits in ECE.
  • Strong oral and written communications skills; technology skills.
  • A strong understanding of child development.
  • 2-3 years of direct professional experience in an early childhood setting.
  • Strong finance and budgeting skills.
  • High energy.
  • Excellent leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills.

Nice To Haves
  • Bachelor's degree in education.
  • Licensed PreK-3rd grade certification
  • CPR and First Aid certification

Benefits
  • Health Insurance
  • Retirement Plan
  • 401K
  • Biweekly Pay


About Us

ONE TEAM

ONE GOAL

SMILING FACES


Kingdom Hearts A Safe Haven For Children To Learn, Dream, And Believe