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Children Program Director Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

Trainers will report directly to the Program Director. This part-time position is anticipated to ... Previous experience working with children in a training and/or after-school environment. * Bachelor ...

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Children Program Director information

See Decatur, GA salary details

$28.8K

$76.3K

$133.8K

How much do children program director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for children program director in Decatur, GA is $76,345.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,700.00 and $90,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 job categories do people searching Children Program Director jobs in Decatur, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Children Program Director jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Children Program Director jobs? Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Children Program Director job openings:
Afterschool Site Director

Part-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


YMCA Of Metro Atlanta rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

546th of 698 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

As a thought-leader and best-in-class provider in education, wellness, youth development, and community-building, The YMCA of Metro Atlanta is one of the oldest and most essential non-profits serving in Atlanta. Today, we're looking for you to join us as we carry out our mission to positively impact lives and communities across the state.

At the Y, we're an association of like-minded people (staff, volunteers, and members), on the forefront of a movement to ensure that everyone -- especially children -- experience an equal opportunity to reach their full potential. In the course of a year, we provide more than 3,000 children, ages 6 weeks through Pre-K with high-quality literacy and STEAM-infused learning; give 58,000 youth and teens access to sports, aquatics, day and resident camps, teen leadership development programs, and employment opportunities; provide over 200,000 members with programs, services, and facilities to enjoy connection and maintain wellness regardless of age; and engage over 25,000 volunteers and donors from across Atlanta to share in the gift of supporting their communities.

NATURE AND SCOPE:

Under the direction of the Afterschool Program Director(s), the Afterschool Site Director is responsible for the day-to-day operation of the Afterschool site including planning and implementing activities for elementary age children that builds upon the skills needed to be successful in school.

RESPONSIBILITIES (including, but not limited to):

  • Create an environment that provides various activities and instruction to support program goals.
  • Conduct daily assessments of the program to ensure compliance with YMCA and BFTS regulations.
  • Supervise staff and communicate any concerns with the Program Director.
  • Maintain staff and student files to remain in compliance with Bright from the Start and the YMCA.
  • Compile attendance records and other pertinent information required by the program.
  • Coordinate supply orders with the Program Director.
  • Attend Bright from the Start (BFTS), YMCA and other training as scheduled. Maintain BFTS annual trainings hours.
  • Consult with the Director(s) on concerns related to student(s) development or behavior.
  • Provide input into the planning and development of the program.
  • Complete monthly self-assessments of the program.
  • Assist students with virtual learning assignments as required by their school district.
  • Implement the YMCA safety protocol both related to COVID and branch operations.

REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must be 21 years of age and a minimum of a high school diploma or GED
  • Must possess a minimum credential that meets BFTS Site Directors requirement
  • Have prior experience working with school-age children in a group setting
  • A licensed setting and supervision of staff in a school-age setting is a plus
  • Have current evidence of successful completion of biennial training in CPR/First Aid
  • Excellent verbal/written communication skills
  • Have experience with Microsoft Office software, including Word, Excel, and Powerpoint, as well as internet technology platforms such as Google Classroom and Zoom
  • Must pass a Fingerprint check through Bright from the Start before working

Ergonomic Requirements:

Bending, stooping, standing, sitting, lifting up to thirty pounds, seeing, hearing, keyboard input.

Employment and Benefits package for this job posting is offered through the YMCA of Metropolitan Atlanta, Inc.

Employment Requirement:

  • Ability to pass a pre-employment background check including Criminal Record check, Drug Screening, motor vehicle record (MVR) and reference check according to company policy.

  • Must be legally eligible to work in the US without current or future sponsorship.

This job posting is subject to change at any time.

The YMCA of Metropolitan Atlanta offers excellent benefits and career opportunities as part of our culture of excellence. The opportunities to serve are vast, and we're looking for like minded people, who share our values of CARING, HONESTY, RESPECT, and RESPONSIBILITY to join us and do their best work.

The YMCA of Metropolitan Atlanta does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by law.


Location:

Andrew & Walter Young Family YMCA

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