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Children Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Children's Pastor provides spiritual leadership, vision, and direction for the children's ministry (birth through 4th grade), creating environments where children can develop a growing ...

Church Children'S Director

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$44K - $59K/yr

... and interacting with children? We have a spot for you! Consider joining Kingdom Movement Church as a Full-Time Church Kids Director, setting the departmental strategy, leading other Kids staff ...

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Schedule Requirements • Sunday mornings (Connect Groups and Children's Service) • Wednesday evenings (JAM) • Regular events such as VBS, summer camps, Easter egg hunt, fall festival, etc. • ...

Children's Pastor General Description The Children's Director oversees all aspects of weekly children's ministries programming (birth-5th grade) and special events. This role seeks to create a ...

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Children Director information

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$28.5K

$52.3K

$80.5K

How much do children director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for children 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.

Can I be a childcare director without a degree?

Children directors typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, but many states require additional certifications such as CPR and first aid. While a degree in early childhood education or a related field can enhance job prospects, some positions may accept relevant experience in childcare management instead of a formal degree.

What is the highest paying job in child development?

The highest paying roles in child development often include pediatric specialists, child psychologists, and developmental pediatricians, with salaries exceeding $150,000 annually. These positions typically require advanced degrees, specialized training, and certification, and often involve working in clinical or research settings.

How much does a director of children's services make?

A director of children's services typically earns between $50,000 and $90,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the organization. Salaries can vary based on certifications, leadership responsibilities, and the specific sector, such as non-profit or government agencies.

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

To thrive as a Children Director, you need a strong background in child development, curriculum planning, and educational program management, often supported by a degree in education or a related field. Familiarity with learning management systems, child safety protocols, and relevant certifications such as CPR or early childhood education credentials is typically required. Exceptional communication, leadership, and organizational skills help you effectively engage children, families, and staff. These skills and qualities are crucial for creating safe, enriching environments that support children's growth and learning.

What are some typical challenges a Children Director may face when managing a diverse team of educators and volunteers?

A Children Director often encounters the challenge of coordinating a team with varying backgrounds, teaching styles, and experience levels. Balancing these differences while ensuring consistent program quality requires strong communication and leadership skills. Additionally, adapting to the unique needs of children and families in the community can be demanding but is crucial for program success. Regular training, clear expectations, and fostering a collaborative environment help address these challenges and support team growth.

What is a Children Director?

A Children Director is a professional responsible for overseeing programs, activities, and educational initiatives for children, typically within organizations such as churches, community centers, or educational institutions. They plan and coordinate events, manage staff or volunteers, and ensure that programs are safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate for kids. Their role often includes curriculum development, volunteer training, and communication with parents. Children Directors play a vital part in creating positive, nurturing environments that support children's growth and learning.

What is the highest paid job in childcare?

The highest paid roles in childcare often include executive directors of large childcare organizations and specialized early childhood education administrators, who typically earn higher salaries due to management responsibilities and advanced qualifications. These positions may require extensive experience, certifications, and leadership skills, and often offer salaries significantly above entry-level childcare roles.

What is the difference between Children Director vs Children Program Coordinator?

AspectChildren DirectorChildren Program Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in education, social work, or related field; some roles prefer a master's degreeUsually requires a bachelor's degree; certifications in child development or first aid are common
Work EnvironmentLeads entire children's programs, manages staff, and oversees activities in schools, community centers, or churchesAssists in implementing programs, coordinates activities, and supports the Children Director in various tasks
Employer & IndustryFound in educational institutions, religious organizations, and community centersCommonly employed in similar settings, often as a supporting role to the Children Director

The Children Director is responsible for overseeing the entire children's program, including staff management and program development. The Children Program Coordinator supports these efforts by assisting with daily activities and program implementation. Both roles require related credentials and work in similar environments, but the Children Director holds a more senior, leadership position.

More about Children Director jobs
What cities are hiring for Children Director jobs? Cities with the most Children Director job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Children jobs? The most popular types of Children jobs are:
What states have the most Children Director jobs? States with the most job openings for Children Director jobs include:
Infographic showing various Children Director job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,327 per year, or $25.2 per hour.
Children's Director/Pastor

Children's Director/Pastor

Real Life Church

Valencia, CA • On-site

$70K - $73K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Position Summary:
The Children's Pastor provides spiritual leadership, vision, and direction for the children's ministry (birth through 4th grade), creating environments where children can develop a growing relationship with Jesus and where families are supported in their faith journey. This role involves leading and equipping a team of volunteers and staff to execute a vibrant, engaging, and biblically grounded ministry.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
The essential functions include, but are not limited to the following:
Vision, Strategy, and Oversight
  • Responsible for the development of vision, strategy, and implementation for RLC's Children's Ministry environments (birth - 4th grade).
  • Develop and maintain a strategy for reaching and assimilating new children and families.
  • Responsible for the strategic planning and oversight of special events such as children's baptisms, baby dedication, camps, etc.
  • Develop and maintain the Children's Ministry budget.
  • Responsible for oversight of tracking weekly attendance.

Programming and Environments
  • Responsible for creating and overseeing large and small group environments, activities, and programming for each age group that will facilitate learning and encourage spiritual growth.
  • Ensure a safe and clean environment is available for all age groups of RLC's Children's Ministry.

Leadership Development and Team Building
  • Develop and lead Children's Ministry staff, coaches, and key volunteers through intentional leadership development plans, ongoing training, coaching, and regular encouragement. Empower them to lead ministry areas independently with excellence.
  • Design and actively implement a Leadership Pipeline to raise up and empower new leaders across every age group, ensuring clear next steps are in place for volunteers to grow in both responsibility and spiritual maturity.
  • Identify, equip, and multiply staff to develop volunteer leaders and coaches by fostering a culture of discipleship and leadership development. Prioritize building teams over filling roles personally.
  • Oversee volunteer recruitment, training, and development.

Family and Parent Partnership
  • Partner with parents to support family discipleship.

Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities):
Education and Experience:
  • Bachelor's degree required, preferably in Youth Ministry, Bible/Theology, or related field.
  • Minimum 3 years' experience in church children's ministry

  • Minimum 3 years' experience managing/leading 3+ staff members and building and leading volunteer teams of 30+
  • Licensed, commissioned, or ordained as a minister strongly preferred.

Knowledge and Skills:
  • Authenticity, strong moral character, and integrity
  • Ability to galvanize teams that are predominately comprised of volunteers to operate at a high level of excellence.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills, accompanied by the ability to lead and shepherd other leaders.
  • Ability to speak effectively before groups, volunteers, church members, or staff members of the church.
  • Passion for fostering community and inspiring others to guide people in their faith.
  • Openness to connecting with new people frequently.
  • Growing knowledge and training in theology, biblical studies, evangelism, and/or discipleship
  • Humility, timeliness, flexibility, and adaptability
  • Diligence in holding team members accountable.
  • Successful passing of an extensive background check that includes professional and character references

Spiritual Requirements:
  • Regular involvement in RLC activities and events
  • Signed acknowledgement of Real Life Church's "Statement of Faith" and "Staff Covenant/Lifestyle Agreement" forms.
  • Signed acknowledgement to policies and procedures as stated in RLC Employee handbook and Pastor handbook.
  • Exhibits a personal devotional life that is consistent and meaningful.
  • Practices biblical stewardship in their personal finances and applies those truths to the church's management of all resources.
  • Ability to serve in the pastoral responsibilities at RLC; such as pastoral care, pastor on call and additional pastoral duties
  • Be certified and trained to lead funerals, premarital classes and workshops, and officiate weddings.
  • Ability to assist and guide people through various life stages and transitions.