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Childcare Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Northstar Preschools

Childcare Director

Washington, UT · On-site

$38K - $51K/yr

We are seeking an experienced and motivated individual to join our team as a Director in our childcare center. As a Director, you will work alongside the Assistant Director to manage daily operations ...

TAKESPROUT LLC

CHILDCARE DIRECTOR

Indianapolis, IN

$30 - $35/hr

A minimum of one year of experience working in a childcare facility. * Background check, TB test, and Drug test We are a great career pathway employer that can lead to becoming an Executive Director ...

Northstar Preschools

Childcare Director

Washington, UT · On-site

$38K - $51K/yr

We are seeking an experienced and motivated individual to join our team as a Director in our childcare center. As a Director, you will work alongside the Assistant Director to manage daily operations ...

Northstar Preschools

Childcare Director

Ogden, UT · On-site

$41K - $55K/yr

We are seeking an experienced and motivated individual to join our team as a Director in our childcare center. As a Director, you will work alongside the Assistant Director to manage daily operations ...

Northstar Preschools

Childcare Director

Washington, UT · On-site

$38K - $51K/yr

We are seeking an experienced and motivated individual to join our team as a Director in our childcare center. As a Director, you will work alongside the Assistant Director to manage daily operations ...

The Nest Schools

Childcare Director

Dallas, TX · On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

Are you a current Director in the field of Early Childhood Education? Do you currently feel you ... the childcare/preschool space We offer all the perks - and they keep getting better * Industry ...

The Nest Schools

Childcare Director

Solon, OH · On-site

$58K - $62K/yr

We can't wait to meet you! #TheNestSchools #CareerFair Are you a current Director in the field of ... the childcare/preschool space We offer all the perks - and they keep getting better * Industry ...

The Nest Schools

Childcare Director

Houston, TX · On-site

$36K - $49K/yr

Overview Are you a current Director in the field of Early Childhood Education? Do you currently ... the childcare/preschool space We offer all the perks - and they keep getting better * Industry ...

The Goddard School

Childcare Director

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$45K - $55K/yr

Childcare discounts * State-of-the-Art facilities * A front-row seat to experience running a business - this could be a launchpad to owning your own School in the future! Director Key ...

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Childcare Director information

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$28.5K

$52.3K

$80.5K

How much do childcare director jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for childcare 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.

Do you need your CDA to be a director?

A Childcare Director typically does not need a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential to hold the position, but many employers prefer or require it as part of their qualifications. Instead, directors often need relevant experience in early childhood education, management skills, and sometimes state-specific licensing or certification requirements. Having a CDA can enhance job prospects and demonstrate a commitment to professional development, but it is not universally mandatory for all director roles.

What does a Childcare Director do?

A Childcare Director oversees the daily operations of a childcare center or preschool, ensuring a safe, nurturing, and educational environment for children. They manage staff, develop curriculum, handle administrative duties, and ensure compliance with state and federal regulations. Childcare Directors also communicate with parents, handle budgeting, and implement policies to maintain high standards of care. Their leadership ensures that both children and staff have a positive and productive experience at the center.

What are some common challenges a Childcare Director faces in managing staff and maintaining high-quality care standards?

Childcare Directors often encounter challenges in balancing administrative duties with supporting staff and ensuring high-quality care. They must navigate staffing shortages, provide ongoing professional development, and address varying needs of children and families. Maintaining compliance with licensing regulations and fostering a positive team culture are also key responsibilities. Successful directors use strong communication and organizational skills to lead their teams and create a nurturing environment for both children and staff.

What degree is needed to be a daycare director?

A childcare director typically needs a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent, but many employers prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree in early childhood education, child development, or a related field. Relevant experience in childcare and certifications such as CPR and first aid are also important for the role.

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

To thrive as a Childcare Director, you need expertise in early childhood education, staff management, and regulatory compliance, usually supported by a degree in early childhood education or a related field and appropriate state licensing. Familiarity with childcare management software, budgeting tools, and compliance tracking systems is important. Strong leadership, communication, and conflict resolution skills help create a positive environment for staff, children, and families. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe, high-quality care, regulatory adherence, and a supportive workplace culture.

What is the role of a director in childcare?

A childcare director oversees the daily operations of a childcare facility, manages staff, ensures compliance with licensing regulations, and maintains a safe and nurturing environment for children. They often handle administrative tasks, develop programs, and communicate with parents to support children's development and well-being.

What is the highest paying childcare job?

The highest paying childcare-related role is often a Childcare Director or Childcare Center Administrator, who typically earns higher salaries due to management responsibilities, advanced certifications, and experience. Executive-level positions in early childhood education or private childcare businesses can also offer higher compensation. These roles often require leadership skills, business acumen, and relevant credentials such as a degree in early childhood education or administration.

What is the difference between Childcare Director vs Childcare Coordinator?

AspectChildcare DirectorChildcare Coordinator
ResponsibilitiesOversees entire childcare facility, manages staff, develops policies, ensures complianceAssists in daily operations, supports staff, coordinates activities and schedules
Required CredentialsChild development or early childhood education degree, relevant certificationsSimilar credentials, often with less administrative focus
Work EnvironmentAdministrative office and childcare facilityChildcare centers, classrooms, and activity areas
Industry UsageHigh-level management role in early childhood educationSupport role within the same industry, focusing on daily operations

The main difference between a Childcare Director and a Childcare Coordinator lies in scope and responsibilities. The Childcare Director holds a leadership role, overseeing the entire facility and staff, while the Childcare Coordinator focuses on supporting daily activities and operations. Both roles require relevant early childhood education credentials, but the Director typically has more administrative duties and authority.

More about Childcare Director jobs
What cities are hiring for Childcare Director jobs? Cities with the most Childcare Director job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Childcare jobs? The most popular types of Childcare jobs are:
What states have the most Childcare Director jobs? States with the most job openings for Childcare Director jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Childcare Director jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Childcare Director jobs are:
Childcare Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Childcare Director job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Temporary. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,327 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Childcare Director

Discovery Junction Child Development Center

Campbelltown, PA

$50K/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Description

Discovery Junction Child Development Center is seeking a Childcare Center Director to work within our licensed childcare facility in Campbelltown, Pennsylvania. This is an exciting opportunity for a self-motivated, energetic leader who is passionate about early childhood education.  
To be qualified for this position, candidates must meet one of the following:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Special Education, Elementary Education, or Human Services + 1 year of childcare experience
    OR
  • Bachelor’s degree with at least 30 credits in a related field + 2 years of childcare experience
    OR
  • Associate degree in a related field + 3 years of childcare experience
    OR
  • Associate degree with 30 credits in a related field + 4 years of childcare experience
Prior leadership experience in a licensed childcare facility is required.
Required Shift: Monday - Friday, flexible and open schedule during hours of operation  
Compensation: Up to $50,000 annually + quarterly bonus 
We are a family-oriented, close-knit organization and we have a lot to offer our next team member including:  
  • Competitive Pay  
  • Quarterly Incentive Bonuses 
  • Paid Trainings, including Enhanced Career and Professional Development  
  • Generous Benefits Package, including Dental, Medical, and Vision Insurance  
  • 401k with Match  
  • Discounts for Childcare  
  • Fun and Positive Place to Work  
  • Open Door Policy 
  • Shirts and Swag - we love to show appreciation for our leaders!   
Our Hiring Process:  
  1. Resume screen 
  2. Phone screen with Recruiter (30 minutes) 
  3. Virtual interview with Regional Director (30 minutes) 
  4. Virtual Interview with Regional Vice President (45 minutes) 
  5. Offer   
Main Job Responsibilities:  
  • Oversee the day-to-day center operations in line with our early childhood philosophy.  
  • Partner with the Recruiting team to identify quality staff; interview and onboard candidates and schedule and allocate staff across the center.  
  • Be a sales advocate for the center and successfully drive and grow enrollment by focusing on new enrollments, tours, marketing, and community engagement.  
  • Develop and execute monthly engagement and marketing plan to increase enrollment; attend community marketing events, plan enrollment and retention activities for families and staff.  
  • Build strong relationships with prospective and currently enrolled families; create positive partnerships with families by serving as a resource and responding to questions and concerns. 
  • Oversee and participate in the preparation and maintenance of a variety of narrative and statistical reports, records and files related to assigned activities and personnel; compose and distribute correspondence.   
  • Develop and teach staff by conducting ongoing observations, staff training, coaching, and embedded professional development opportunities.   
  • Ability to be flexible in your role and complete job duties of absent staff members.   
  • Physical ability to work around small children including sitting, standing, walking, running, and climbing stairs. 
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 40 lbs. and fulfill all physical requirements of the role. 
If you have a positive attitude, love working with children and desire to work in a fun and professional environment, we encourage you to apply today! 
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We embrace and celebrate diversity and inclusivity. We do not tolerate any kind of discrimination in our hiring processes against any groups protected by federal, state, or local law. 
#PECEPDIRECTORS