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Preschool Director Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

Grow Your Center

Lead Preschool Teacher

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$21 - $27/hr

La Esperanza Preschool is seeking a passionate and experienced Lead Preschool Teacher who is fluent in Spanish and English. The Lead Teacher will create and implement engaging lesson plans, guide ...

East Gate Kids

NM Pre-K Teacher

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

NM Pre-K Teachers Schedule: 9:00am - 6:00pm Pay Rate: $20.00 - $24.00 Albuquerque, NM | Full-Time 5-Star Center | Full-Time or Part-Time | Purpose-Driven | Reggio-Inspired | Growth-Focused ...

East Gate Kids

NM Pre-K Teacher

Albuquerque, NM

$20 - $24/hr

NM Pre-K Teachers Schedule: 9:00am - 6:00pm Pay Rate: $20.00 - $24.00 Albuquerque, NM | Full-Time 5-Star Center | Full-Time or Part-Time | Purpose-Driven | Reggio-Inspired | Growth-Focused ...

The Little Gym

Gym Director - morning hours

Rio Rancho, NM · On-site

$17 - $24/hr

Parent/Child, Pre-K, and Grade School classes are all taught in a clean, fun, safe, and nurturing ... The Gym Director is a part-time career-level position, responsible for the overall performance of ...

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All JobsPreschool Director JobsPreschool Director Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Preschool Director information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$25.6K

$51.7K

$72.9K

How much do preschool director jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for preschool director in Rio Rancho, NM is $51,703.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,500.00 and $59,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Preschool Director vs Preschool Teacher?

AspectPreschool DirectorPreschool Teacher
CredentialsEarly childhood education degree, administrative experienceChild development or early childhood education certification
Work EnvironmentAdministrative office, overseeing staff and operationsClassroom setting, direct interaction with children
ResponsibilitiesManaging staff, curriculum planning, budgetingTeaching children, implementing curriculum, supervising small groups

The Preschool Director focuses on managing the overall operation of the preschool, including staff, curriculum, and administration. In contrast, the Preschool Teacher primarily works directly with children, delivering educational activities. Both roles require early childhood education credentials, but the Director's role involves more administrative duties, while the Teacher's role emphasizes classroom instruction.

What are some common challenges a Preschool Director might face when managing a team of educators?

A Preschool Director often faces the challenge of balancing administrative responsibilities with supporting and motivating their teaching staff. This includes addressing staff turnover, ensuring consistent communication, and providing ongoing professional development. Directors must also handle conflicts or differing teaching philosophies, all while maintaining a positive and collaborative work environment that prioritizes the well-being of both children and staff. Effective leadership and strong interpersonal skills are essential for navigating these situations successfully.

What is the highest paying job in childcare?

The highest paying jobs in childcare often include executive roles such as Childcare Center Directors or Preschool Directors, especially in large or private institutions. These positions typically require advanced education, management skills, and certifications, and can offer salaries significantly higher than entry-level teaching roles.

What does a Preschool Director do?

A Preschool Director is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a preschool or early childhood education center. Their duties include managing staff, developing curriculum, ensuring compliance with state regulations, and maintaining a safe and nurturing environment for children. They often handle budgeting, enrollment, and communication with parents, as well as fostering a positive learning atmosphere. The director plays a key role in shaping the educational experience for young children and supporting their development.

How stressful is being a preschool director?

Being a preschool director can be stressful due to responsibilities such as managing staff, ensuring safety, and meeting regulatory requirements. The role often involves handling conflicts, tight schedules, and high expectations from parents and administrators, requiring strong organizational and communication skills.

What do preschool directors do?

Preschool directors oversee the daily operations of early childhood education centers, including staff management, curriculum implementation, and ensuring compliance with safety and licensing regulations. They also handle budgeting, parent communication, and staff hiring, often requiring leadership skills and relevant certifications. Their role ensures a safe, educational, and nurturing environment for young children.

What is the highest paying job in early childhood education?

The highest paying roles in early childhood education typically include preschool directors, especially those managing large or private institutions, with salaries often exceeding $70,000 annually. Advanced degrees, extensive experience, and strong administrative skills can lead to higher compensation in this field.

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

To thrive as a Preschool Director, you need expertise in early childhood education, program administration, and staff management, usually supported by a relevant degree and state certification. Familiarity with childcare licensing regulations, curriculum planning software, and budgeting systems is typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and conflict resolution skills help foster a positive learning environment and cohesive team. These competencies are essential for ensuring high-quality early education, regulatory compliance, and effective preschool operations.

What Is the Job of a Preschool Director?

A preschool director oversees the operations and activities at a school or child care facility for infants, toddlers, and young children. Their responsibilities include staff management, program development, and other administrative duties like budgeting and maintenance. Other duties of a preschool director include providing tours and informational sessions for the parents of prospective students, recruiting and hiring staff, evaluating teachers and other staff, and ensuring a safe environment for children to learn and play. The qualifications you need to become a preschool director vary by employer, but most states require a professional license or certification.

More about Preschool Director jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Preschool jobs in Rio Rancho, NM? The most popular types of Preschool jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
What job categories do people searching Preschool Director jobs in Rio Rancho, NM look for? The top searched job categories for Preschool Director jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Preschool Director jobs? Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Preschool Director job openings:
Preschool Director jobs near you

Foundations Preschool - Campus Security Offer

Citizen Church

Albuquerque, NM

$13.75 - $18.25/hr

Part-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Campus: North - 7518 Oakland Ave NE, Albuquerque, NM 87113

Division: Operations/Preschool

Classification: Part-Time, Hourly

Schedule: Monday - Thursday, 8:30 AM - 1:30 PM

Contract Term: August 2026 - May 2027 (School Year 2026-2027)

Department: Preschool

Reports to: Ryan Angell


MISSION:

We strive to build a fun, Christ-centered atmosphere for children to develop their foundational skills academically, socially, and spiritually.


ABOUT FOUNDATIONS PRESCHOOL

Foundations Preschool is a Christ-centered early education program rooted in the community of Citizen Church. Our mission is to build a fun, Christ-centered atmosphere where children grow spiritually, academically, and socially -- grounded in the truth that every child is known and called by name by the Lord. We use the Abeka curriculum and follow all NM ECECD guidelines to provide a safe, nurturing environment where families trust us with what matters most: their children.

The safety and security of our children, families, and staff is a ministry in itself. We are seeking a prayerful, professional individual who understands that protecting this community is a calling, not just a job.


POSITION SUMMARY

The Campus Security Officer is a vital part of the Foundations Preschool team. Working Monday through Thursday from 8:30 AM to 1:30 PM during the 2026-2027 school year, this individual will maintain a safe, secure, and welcoming environment for children (ages 3-4), families, and staff. This role requires a calm, professional presence, sound judgment, and a heart for serving a faith-based school community.


KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Provide a visible, professional security presence during morning arrival, daily program hours, and afternoon dismissal
  • Monitor all entry and exit points; ensure only authorized individuals access the campus
  • Greet and assist families and visitors with a warm, Christ-honoring demeanor
  • Perform regular walkthroughs of the facility, classrooms, outdoor play areas, and parking lot
  • Respond promptly and calmly to any safety incident, emergency, or threat -- following established emergency protocols
  • Coordinate with the director and teaching staff during drills (fire, lockdown, evacuation) and real emergencies
  • Maintain a daily security log documenting arrivals, departures, incidents, and observations
  • Support NM ECECD compliance by ensuring no child is ever left unattended and all visitors are signed in
  • Carry a personal concealed firearm as authorized (see Concealed Carry section below)
  • Maintain confidentiality regarding children, families, and internal matters at all times

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Must pass a fingerprint-based criminal background check through NM ECECD -- required before beginning work (no substantiated CPS referrals)
  • Valid New Mexico Concealed Handgun License (CHL) in good standing
  • Personal firearm in proper working condition; candidate responsible for firearm, maintenance, and safe carry
  • Strong situational awareness and the ability to de-escalate conflict calmly and professionally
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and act with discretion in all school matters
  • Reliable, punctual, and committed to the full contract term (Aug 10, 2026 - May 18, 2027)
  • Genuine respect for the faith-based mission and values of Foundations Preschool
  • Must be able to stand, walk, and be physically active throughout the shift


PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Prior experience in school security, law enforcement, military, or a related field
  • CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain) -- pediatric component preferred
  • Experience working in a faith-based, school, or child-serving environment
  • Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus


CONCEALED CARRY REQUIREMENT

This position requires the Campus Security Officer to carry a personal concealed firearm on duty. The following conditions apply:

  • Candidate must possess a valid New Mexico Concealed Handgun License (CHL) and maintain it in good standing throughout employment
  • Firearm must be carried concealed and secured at all times -- no open carry permitted on campus
  • Candidate is personally responsible for their firearm, its safe handling, storage protocols, and any applicable insurance
  • Firearm use is governed by New Mexico law and must conform to Foundations Preschool's written security policy
  • Candidate must demonstrate safe firearm handling proficiency prior to or upon hire


BACKGROUND CHECK PROCESS

Per New Mexico law (8.8.3 NMAC and 8.9.4 NMAC), all individuals working in a licensed childcare setting must pass a fingerprint-based criminal background check administered through the NM Early Childhood Education & Care Department (ECECD) before beginning work. This check covers federal and New Mexico state criminal records, employment history verification, and a screen of the ECECD child abuse and neglect database.


OUR COMMUNITY & CULTURE

Foundations Preschool is more than a school -- it is a community where children discover that they are known, loved, and called by God. Our staff, volunteers, and partners are expected to model the character of Christ in every interaction: patient, kind, honest, and servant-hearted.

The Campus Security Officer is a visible representation of our commitment to protecting this community. We believe safety and faith go hand in hand, and we are looking for someone who shares that conviction. While formal church membership is not required, candidates must be fully supportive of and comfortable working in a Christ-centered environment where prayer, worship, and Scripture are part of daily school life; while abiding by Citizen Church's staff honor code.

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of the NM ECECD fingerprint-based background check. Foundations Preschool is an equal opportunity employer and a ministry of Citizen Church.

Hours reflected are for established school year.

Teachers' first day is Aug 4, 2026, and last day is May 20, 2027.

Students first day is Aug 10, 2026, and last day is May 18, 2027.

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