ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Executive Child Development Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

YMCA

Executive Director, Community Hub

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

Child Abuse Prevention - Support the YMCA's commitment to child abuse prevention by: Reporting any ... Contribute to the development and execution of a hub-level strategic plan that supports long-term ...

Kimberly-Clark

Executive Assistant I

Chicago, IL · On-site

... Child Care (BCC) business. In this role, you will serve as a trusted partner to senior leaders ... development * Utilize Microsoft Office and collaboration tools (including Outlook, Word, Excel ...

Kimberly-Clark

Executive Assistant I

Chicago, IL · On-site

... Child Care (BCC) business. In this role, you will serve as a trusted partner to senior leaders ... development * Utilize Microsoft Office and collaboration tools (including Outlook, Word, Excel ...

Kimberlyclark

Executive Assistant I

Chicago, IL · On-site

... Child Care (BCC) business. In this role, you will serve as a trusted partner to senior leaders ... development * Utilize Microsoft Office and collaboration tools (including Outlook, Word, Excel ...

Sogeti

Division Delivery Executive

Chicago, IL · On-site

$78K - $107K/yr

Accountable for Offer Development, Solution Development, People Development and Management ... Subsidized Back-up Child/Elder Care & Tutoring * Career Planning & Coaching * $5,250 Tuition ...

DocuSign

Partner Development Representative

Chicago, IL · On-site

$24 - $31.28/hr

Work with internal and external partner Account Executives to source and close deals, ensure ... Paid Parental Leave: take up to six months off with your child after birth, adoption or foster care ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsChild Development JobsExecutive Child Development JobsExecutive Child Development Jobs in Chicago, IL

Executive Child Development information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$36.1K

$96K

$203.5K

How much do executive child development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for executive child development in Chicago, IL is $95,969.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,900.00 and $103,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an executive child development professional?

An Executive Child Development professional typically refers to someone in a leadership or administrative role within an organization that serves children, such as a childcare center, preschool, or early childhood education program. These professionals oversee program development, staff management, compliance with regulations, and often work on curriculum planning and parent communication. Their goal is to ensure a high standard of care and education for young children while managing the operational and strategic aspects of the organization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an executive child development professional?

To thrive as an Executive in Child Development, you need advanced knowledge of early childhood education, program management, and often a master's degree in education or a related field. Familiarity with curriculum development software, regulatory compliance systems, and accreditation standards is typically required. Exceptional leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help in guiding teams and building relationships with families and stakeholders. These competencies ensure the effective delivery of high-quality programs and the overall growth and well-being of children and staff.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in executive child development roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Executive Child Development roles often face challenges such as balancing administrative duties with direct program oversight, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and supporting staff professional development. Navigating limited resources while maintaining high-quality programs can also be demanding. Success often relies on strong leadership, effective communication, and building collaborative relationships with educators, families, and community partners. Staying informed about best practices and investing in continuous learning can help address these challenges and foster a positive organizational culture.

What is the difference between Executive Child Development vs Child Development Specialist?

AspectExecutive Child DevelopmentChild Development Specialist
CredentialsBachelor’s or Master’s in Child Development, Education, or related field; certifications may varyDegree in Child Development, Education, Psychology, or related field; certifications often required
Work EnvironmentAdministrative roles, program oversight, policy development in educational or childcare organizationsDirect interaction with children, implementing developmental programs, assessments in schools or clinics
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, government agencies, educational institutionsPreschools, daycare centers, clinics, community programs

Executive Child Development roles focus on program management, policy, and administrative oversight, often requiring leadership skills. Child Development Specialists work directly with children, assessing and supporting their developmental needs. Both roles require relevant education and certifications but differ mainly in responsibilities and work settings.

Is executive child development a good career?

Executive child development involves overseeing programs and policies related to early childhood education and care, often requiring leadership skills and relevant certifications. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in child welfare, with opportunities in educational institutions, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. Job stability and growth depend on the sector and geographic location, and strong communication and management skills are essential.

What are the most commonly searched types of Child Development jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Child Development jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Executive Child Development jobs near you

Child Care Executive Director

The Learning Experience #121

Chicago, IL • On-site

$73 - $99/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Benefits
  • Bonus based on performance
  • Competitive salary
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee discounts
  • Health insurance
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Paid time off
  • Training & development
The Learning Experience – A Premium Early Childhood Education Experience

Join the fastest-growing Academy of Early Education in the nation and lead a premium child care center known for excellence, innovation, and exceptional family experiences. At The Learning Experience (TLE), we deliver more than child care— we provide a high-end early education environment where children thrive, families feel confident, and educators build meaningful, long-term careers.

As a Executive Center Director, you will lead a top-tier team, uphold the highest standards in early childhood education, and ensure every family experiences the quality, care, and professionalism that define our brand.

Compensation: $73,000–$99,000 annually

Why Join Our Premium Program Exceptional Benefits & Perks
  • Health, Vision, Dental, and Life Insurance
  • Childcare Discounts
  • And more!
State-of-the-Art, Premium Facilities
  • Beautifully designed classrooms with modern technology and enriched learning materials
  • A clean, safe, and polished environment that is always tour-ready
  • Proprietary curriculum delivered with consistency and excellence
Professional Growth & Leadership Development
  • Ongoing training and leadership coaching
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Clear advancement pathways within a growing national brand
Your Impact as a Center Director

You will serve as both educational leader and business operator, ensuring a premium experience across every touchpoint—from classroom quality and teacher development to family engagement and enrollment growth.

You will set the standard for excellence, professionalism, and care while driving strong operational and financial performance.

Key Responsibilities People & Culture
  • Recruit, hire, and retain high-performing educators who reflect premium service standards
  • Build a professional, respectful, and inclusive culture aligned with TLE values
  • Conduct monthly team meetings focused on excellence, accountability, and growth
  • Provide ongoing coaching, performance feedback, and annual reviews
  • Maintain employee turnover below 40% annually
  • Serve as a trusted leader for staff and families, resolving concerns with discretion and care
Enrollment & Family Experience
  • Deliver a luxury-level tour and enrollment experience for prospective families
  • Execute marketing and community outreach strategies that support enrollment goals
  • Maintain strong enrollment, retention, and lead-to-start conversion metricsBuild lasting relationships with families rooted in trust, communication, and satisfaction
  • Manage online presence, social media engagement, and positive reviews
Financial & Operational Excellence
  • Manage budgets and revenue targets
  • Ensure accurate billing, tuition collection, and responsible discounting
  • Identify efficiencies while preserving the premium experience families expect
Quality, Safety & Compliance
  • Ensure full compliance with licensing, health, and safety regulations
  • Maintain immaculate classrooms and common areas at all times
  • Ensure proper supervision, documentation, and secure record-keeping
  • Leverage TLE systems and tools to drive consistency and operational excellence
Qualifications
  • Minimum of 1 year of child care center leadership or people management experience (2+ years preferred)
  • Proven salesmanship and business-growth experience, with the ability to drive enrollment, conversion, and retention in a premium service environment
  • Demonstrated success in hiring, onboarding, training, and developing high-performing teams
  • Strong ability to hold staff accountable to performance goals, expectations, and professional standards
  • Confident, solution-focused conflict resolution skills, including addressing employee performance issues and family concerns with professionalism and care
  • Required state Director or Administrative Credential and ability to meet all licensing and background requirements
  • Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Business, or a related field preferred
  • Solid understanding of early childhood education best practices and licensing regulations
  • Excellent communication, organizational, and leadership skills
  • Results-driven mindset with the ability to balance educational excellence and business performance
#J-18808-Ljbffr

Apply