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Child Development Director Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Guidepost Montessori

Preschool Director

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$47K - $65K/yr

A genuine passion for child development and educational excellence * Commitment to authentic ... Experience as a School Director, Program Director, Admissions Director, Administrative Director, or ...

Guidepost Montessori

Preschool Director

Portland, OR

$48K - $66K/yr

A genuine passion for child development and educational excellence * Commitment to authentic ... Experience as a School Director, Program Director, Admissions Director, Administrative Director, or ...

Guidepost Montessori

Preschool Director

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$47K - $65K/yr

A genuine passion for child development and educational excellence * Commitment to authentic ... Experience as a School Director, Program Director, Admissions Director, Administrative Director, or ...

Guidepost Montessori

Preschool Director

Beaverton, OR

$47K - $65K/yr

A genuine passion for child development and educational excellence * Commitment to authentic ... Experience as a School Director, Program Director, Admissions Director, Administrative Director, or ...

Legacy Health

Pediatric Child Life Specialist

Portland, OR · On-site

$29.89 - $42.74/hr

... Child Development, Psychology, or related field with all clinical coursework for clinical Child Life Certification completed. * Completion of a 600-hour Child Life internship under the direct ...

Legacy Health

Pediatric Child Life Specialist

Portland, OR · On-site

$29.89 - $42.74/hr

... Child Development, Psychology, or related field with all clinical coursework for clinical Child Life Certification completed. * Completion of a 600-hour Child Life internship under the direct ...

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All JobsChild Development JobsChild Development Director JobsChild Development Director Jobs in Portland, OR

Child Development Director information

See Portland, OR salary details

$17K

$101.5K

$188.8K

How much do child development director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for child development director in Portland, OR is $101,499.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,500.00 and $121,400.00 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 Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Child Development jobs in Portland, OR are:

What are popular job titles related to Child Development Director jobs in Portland, OR?

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

What job categories do people searching Child Development Director jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Child Development Director jobs in Portland, OR are:

Child Development Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Child Development Director job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,499 per year, or $48.8 per hour.

Director - Child Development Center

YMCA of Columbia Willamette

Portland, OR • On-site

$25.50 - $27.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Description

Do you want rewarding work focused on providing a fun, safe, and positive social-emotional experience for children? Work alongside other passionate individuals to support and enrich the lives of our youth.


The YMCA is looking for fun, hardworking, individuals looking to make an impact in our community. This position will provide care for children at our Child Development Center ("Wee Care") located on the campus of Providence Portland hospital. 
 

JOB DESCRIPTION

Position Information

Position Title: Director- Child Development Center
Department: Childcare
Reports To: Tatiana Pavelka, Leader of Youth Development
Employment Status: Full-Time
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Compensation: $25.50-27.50/hour
Work Arrangement: Hybrid
Primary Work Location: Providence Portland Child Development Center

About the YMCA of Columbia-Willamette

The YMCA of Columbia-Willamette is a leading nonprofit organization serving communities throughout Oregon and Southwest Washington. Guided by our mission to strengthen community through Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility, we provide programs and services that help individuals of all ages learn, grow, and thrive.

Our employees are passionate about creating welcoming, inclusive environments where everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential. Every position contributes to our mission and plays an important role in strengthening the communities we serve.


Job Responsibilities:

The Director is responsible for hiring and supervising program staff, maintaining all licensing standards, managing aspects of a budget including ordering required supplies, and communicating with parents and community partners to foster positive relationships within our community.  Additionally, the Director is responsible for ensuring all record keeping and administrative tasks are completed accurately in a timely manner, participating in observation and assessment of children as needed, updating and implementing emergency procedures, and managing daily operation of the center.

Working Conditions

Working conditions may include:

  • Indoor and outdoor work environments
  • Exposure to varying weather conditions
  • Moderate to high noise levels
  • Evening, weekend, and holiday work as needed
  • Travel between YMCA locations
  • Frequent interaction with children, families, members, volunteers, and community partners

YMCA-CW Comprehensive Benefits for Eligible Full-Time Employees

Eligible full-time employees may receive access to a comprehensive benefits package, including:

  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • 403(b) Retirement Plan and Roth Options
  • 9% Employer Contribution to the YMCA Retirement Fund (upon eligibility)
  • Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance
  • Short-Term Disability Insurance
  • Accident Insurance
  • Critical Illness Insurance
  • Pet Insurance
  • LegalShield and IDShield Plans
  • Paid Vacation (accrual increases with years of service)
  • Paid Sick Leave in accordance with applicable state and local law
  • Three (3) Paid Holidays annually
  • Six (6) Floating Holidays annually
  • Complimentary YMCA Membership (recognized globally!)
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Growth Opportunities

Benefits are subject to eligibility requirements and may change in accordance with YMCA-CW policies and benefit plan documents.

Requirements

  • Pass a YMCA Background Check
  • Meet all Director standards as dictated by Oregon's Department of Early Learning and Care including one of the following two qualifications: 1) Step 9 in the Oregon Registry OR 2) knowledge of management and supervision of adults evidenced by 7 college level credit hours, at least 70 training hours in program management, OR 600 hours of experience where there was an opportunity to participate in financial management, policy development, record keeping, and staff management AND knowledge of child development evidenced by 7 college level credit hours, at least 70 training hours in specific child development categories, OR 600 hours of qualifying teaching experience with preschool age children.
  • Current enrollment in the Oregon State Childcare Registry or ability to enroll prior to employment.
  • Current CPR and First Aid certification or ability to obtain within 30 days.
  • Current Food Handlers certification or ability to obtain within 30 days.
  • At least 21 years of age

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