ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Children Program Director Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

COMMUNITY BRIDGES

PROGRAM DIRECTOR

Santa Cruz, CA

$52.28 - $65.12/hr

Administrates all aspects of the Children's Centers, ensuring compliance with Federal and State ... The minimum requirements to obtain a Program Director Permit are as follows: * BA degree with 24 ...

Community Bridges

PROGRAM DIRECTOR

CA · On-site

$51.28 - $64.12/hr

Administrates all aspects of the Children's Centers, ensuring compliance with Federal and State ... The minimum requirements to obtain a Program Director Permit are as follows: * BA degree with 24 ...

Reading Partners

Program Director

Oakland, CA · On-site +1

$109K - $122K/yr

... mission to help children become lifelong learners by empowering communities to provide ... The Program Director (PD) provides strategic leadership, development, and oversight of a national ...

Kiddie Academy

Program Director

La Verne, CA · On-site

Academy Director - Kiddie Academy Location: La Verne Type: Full-Time Kiddie Academy, a leader in ... for children, families, and staff, while championing our mission of "Awakening possibilities ...

READING PARTNERS

Program Director

Oakland, CA · Remote

... mission to help children become lifelong learners by empowering communities to provide ... The Program Director (PD) provides strategic leadership, development, and oversight of a national ...

Kiddie Academy

Program Director

La Verne, CA · On-site

Academy Director - Kiddie Academy Location: La Verne Type: Full-Time Kiddie Academy, a leader in ... for children, families, and staff, while championing our mission of "Awakening possibilities ...

Kiddie Academy

Program Director

La Verne, CA

Academy Director - Kiddie Academy Location: La Verne Type: Full-Time Kiddie Academy, a leader in ... for children, families, and staff, while championing our mission of "Awakening possibilities ...

Steps Therapy Inc

Program Director

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$27 - $35/hr

As a Program Director, you are responsible for designing and implementing behavior intervention programs to young children with special needs and providing families with training to reinforce learned ...

Steps Therapy Inc

Program Director

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$27 - $35/hr

As a Program Director, you are responsible for designing and implementing behavior intervention programs to young children with special needs and providing families with training to reinforce learned ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsChildren Program JobsChildren Program Director JobsChildren Program Director Jobs in California

Children Program Director information

What does a Children Program Director do?

A Children Program Director is responsible for designing, managing, and evaluating programs and activities for children, often within educational, recreational, or community settings. They oversee staff, develop age-appropriate curricula, ensure the safety and well-being of participants, and coordinate with parents and community organizations. Their role involves budgeting, scheduling, and maintaining compliance with relevant regulations to create a positive and enriching environment for children.

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

The salary for a Children’s Program Director typically ranges from $40,000 to $70,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Higher salaries are common in larger organizations or urban areas, and the role often requires strong leadership, program management skills, and relevant certifications.

What are some common challenges faced by a Children Program Director, and how can they be effectively managed?

Children Program Directors often face challenges such as balancing diverse needs of children, managing staff, and ensuring program compliance with safety and educational standards. Effective management involves maintaining clear communication with team members, staying updated on best practices in child development, and fostering strong relationships with parents and community partners. Proactively addressing staff training and seeking regular feedback can also help create a positive, adaptable program environment.

What is the highest paying job in child development?

The highest paying roles in child development often include senior positions such as Child Development Director or Pediatric Healthcare Executive, which require advanced degrees and extensive experience. These roles typically involve leadership, policy development, or specialized clinical skills and can offer salaries exceeding $100,000 annually.

What is the highest paid job in childcare?

The highest paid roles in childcare often include executive positions such as Childcare Center Directors or Owners, who manage large facilities and oversee staff and budgets. These roles typically require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and strong leadership skills, with salaries varying based on location and facility size.

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

Children Program DirectorChildren Activities Coordinator
Develops and oversees overall program strategies and policiesPlans and executes specific activities and events for children
Requires higher-level management skills and experienceFocuses on day-to-day activity coordination
Typically holds a bachelor's degree in education, recreation, or related fieldMay require similar certifications but less managerial experience
Works in community centers, schools, or religious organizationsWorks in similar environments, often under supervision

The Children Program Director focuses on strategic planning and program management, while the Children Activities Coordinator handles the execution of specific activities. Both roles require relevant certifications and work in similar settings, but the director has broader responsibilities and leadership duties.

What qualifications do you need to be a program director?

Children Program Directors typically need a bachelor's degree in education, social work, or a related field, along with experience working with children and in program management. Strong leadership, communication skills, and knowledge of safety regulations are also important. Some positions may require certifications such as CPR or first aid.

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

To thrive as a Children Program Director, you need a background in education, child development, or a related field, often with a bachelor's degree and experience in program management. Familiarity with curriculum planning tools, child safety regulations, and management software is typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help you inspire staff, engage families, and respond effectively to challenges. These competencies are essential for creating enriching, safe, and effective programs that support children's growth and well-being.
What are the most commonly searched types of Children Program jobs in California? The most popular types of Children Program jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Children Program Director jobs in California? For Children Program Director jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Children Program Director jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Children Program Director jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Children Program Director jobs? Cities in California with the most Children Program Director job openings:
Children Program Director jobs near you

Program Director

Bright Future Early Learning Center

Oakland, CA • On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted yesterday

Job description

Bright Future Early Learning Center is seeking a full-time Program Director to provide daily leadership, supervision, and coordination for our early childhood education program. Bright Future is an inclusive, play-based learning community serving children ages 3 months to 5 years old.

The Program Director will support strong daily operations, guide teacher development, strengthen family communication, and ensure compliance with California childcare licensing regulations. Bright Future currently serves approximately 50 students and employs 12 teaching staff. The center is operated by Oakland State Building Kids Corporation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization overseen by a volunteer Board of Directors.

Key Responsibilities

Program Leadership:
Oversee daily implementation of infant, toddler, and preschool programs. Ensure classrooms follow developmentally appropriate practices and play-based learning. Support teachers with curriculum planning, classroom organization, assessments, parent-teacher conferences, and family resources.

Daily Operations:
Maintain staffing schedules and Title 22 ratio compliance. Coordinate substitute coverage when needed. Ensure smooth classroom flow, safe supervision, accurate attendance, incident reports, and proper documentation.

Center Operations:
Direct financial and fundraising matters. Develop and maintain the annual budget and monthly financial projections. Oversee bookkeeping, tax preparation, supply purchasing, vendor contracts, teacher payroll, and family invoicing.

Staff Supervision and Development:
Supervise teaching staff and support instructional growth. Observe classrooms and provide feedback. Support onboarding and training of new staff. Participate in staff evaluations, lead staff meetings, and promote a positive workplace culture.

Family Communication:
Ensure clear and consistent communication with families. Share updates about classroom activities, learning experiences, child development progress, program routines, policies, and expectations. Support teachers in responding to parent concerns and build strong family partnerships.

Program Culture:
Promote a respectful, collaborative, and professional environment. Ensure children feel safe, valued, and encouraged. Support community-building events and strengthen relationships between staff, children, and families.

Reporting Relationship:
The Program Director reports directly to the Board of Directors and works closely with staff, families, and community partners.

Hours and Location:
This is a full-time, on-site position. The center’s normal operating hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM. The center is located at 1515 Clay Street in downtown Oakland.

Physical Requirements:
Ability to sit, stand, walk, squat, and reach throughout the day. Ability to lift up to 20 pounds. Ability to move throughout classrooms and outdoor areas.

Minimum Qualifications:
Ability to obtain a Child Development Director Permit. CPR and First Aid certification. At least 3–5 years of experience in a licensed childcare program.

Desired Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Child Development, Early Childhood Education, or a related field. Strong knowledge of California Title 22 regulations. Supervisory or mentoring experience. Strong communication, organization, and conflict-resolution skills. Bilingual candidates preferred. Experience with childcare software systems. Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google Suite. Experience with budget development and management.

Compensation and Benefits:
Salary range is $80,000–$100,000, depending on education and experience. Excellent benefits are offered, including health, dental, vision, and retirement.

Please submit a Cover Letter. Your cover letter should explain why you are interested in the Program Director position and summarize your background and relevant experience.