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Childcare Program Director Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Program Director

Hopewell, VA ยท On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Oversee daily operations of the childcare center * Ensure compliance with all state licensing ... Maintain a safe, clean, and organized facility Requirements Program Directors must be at least 21 ...

In partnership with Northern Virginia Community College, local childcare centers, and other groups ... Program Director is responsible for day-to-day management of the ECLI, including recruitment and ...

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Childcare Director

Annandale, VA ยท On-site

$41K - $56K/yr

... Director to lead our early ... childhood program. We are looking for a positive, dependable leader who is passionate about ...

Be Seen First

Childcare Director

Annandale, VA ยท On-site

$41K - $56K/yr

... Director to lead our early ... childhood program. We are looking for a positive, dependable leader who is passionate about ...

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Childcare Program Director information

What does a childcare program director do?

A Childcare Program Director oversees the daily operations of a childcare center or program, ensuring a safe, nurturing, and educational environment for children. They are responsible for staff management, curriculum development, regulatory compliance, budgeting, and communication with parents. Directors also handle enrollment, maintain program quality, and implement policies to support children's development. Their role is crucial in creating a positive and effective learning atmosphere for both children and staff.

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

To thrive as a Childcare Program Director, you need expertise in early childhood education, program management, and regulatory compliance, often supported by a degree in education or a related field and relevant state certifications. Familiarity with childcare management software, budgeting tools, and state licensing systems is typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help foster a positive environment for both staff and children. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure a safe, nurturing, and effective program that meets both educational standards and the needs of families.

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

Childcare Program Directors often navigate challenges such as balancing administrative duties with staff supervision, ensuring compliance with licensing regulations, and meeting the diverse needs of children and families. Effective time management, clear communication, and ongoing professional development are key to overcoming these hurdles. Building a supportive team environment and staying updated on best practices in early childhood education also help Directors maintain program quality and staff morale.

What is the difference between Childcare Program Director vs Childcare Center Supervisor?

AspectChildcare Program DirectorChildcare Center Supervisor
CredentialsEarly childhood education degree, certifications in child developmentRelevant experience, possibly certifications in child care
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple programs or centers, administrative focusManages daily operations of a single center
ResponsibilitiesProgram development, staff hiring, compliance, budgetingStaff supervision, daily center operations, parent communication

The Childcare Program Director typically has broader responsibilities, overseeing multiple programs or centers with a focus on administration and program development. In contrast, the Childcare Center Supervisor manages daily operations within a single center, focusing more on staff and child care activities. Both roles require relevant early childhood credentials, but the Program Director's role is more strategic and administrative.

What degree do I need to be a Childcare Program Director at a daycare?

A Childcare Program Director typically needs 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 often required or preferred by employers.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Childcare Program Director jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Childcare Program Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Childcare Program Director job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, and 26% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Program Director

Hopewell, VA โ€ข On-site

Tiny Treasures Childcare
Education Programs Administrationย โ€ขย 11 - 50 employees

$17 - $20/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description


About This Role

 The Director is responsible for the overall management, operation, and administration of the childcare center. The Director ensures the center operates in compliance with all state licensing regulations while maintaining a safe, nurturing, and educational environment for children, families, and staff.


What You'll Do
  • Oversee daily operations of the childcare center
  • Ensure compliance with all state licensing regulations and health and safety standards
  • Hire, train, supervise, and evaluate staff
  • Develop and implement policies and procedures
  • Manage enrollment and maintain accurate records
  • Communicate effectively with parents and families
  • Maintain staff schedules and classroom ratios
  • Ensure curriculum implementation and program quality
  • Oversee budgeting, purchasing, and financial management
  • Conduct staff meetings and professional development

  • Maintain a safe, clean, and organized facility

Requirements

Program Directors must be at least 21 years of age and shall meet one of the following:


  1. A graduate degree in a child-related field such as elementary education, nursing, or recreation from a college or university and six months of programmatic experience.
  2. An endorsement or bachelor's degree in a child-related field such as elementary education, nursing, or recreation from a college or university and one year of programmatic experience.
  3. Forty-eight semester hours or 72 quarter hours of college credit from a college or university of which 12 semester hours or 18 quarter hours are in child-related subjects and one year of programmatic experience.

Program Director without management experience* must have one college course in a business-related field, 10 hours of management training, or one childcare management course that satisfactorily covers the management functions of:


  1. Planning
  2. Budgeting
  3. Staffing; and
  4. Monitoring

Program Director must:

  • Demonstrate overall good health.
  • Demonstrate ability to communicate in clear, concise manner with others, both written and verbally.
  • Management experience is defined as at least six months of on-the-job training in an administrative position that requires supervising, orienting, training, and scheduling staff.

Nice To Haves
  • Previous childcare leadership or administrative experience
  • Knowledge of child development and licensing regulations
  • Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills
  • Ability to pass a background check
  • CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)