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Preschool Program Director Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Lead Preschool Teacher

Portland, OR · On-site

$22.67 - $39.23/hr

The Finch Academy is a Preschool for All grant funded and tuition-based program . Have Questions? Delorie Finch, Director The Finch Academy To apply: Please send resume and cover letter to: Delorie ...

The Finch Academy is a Preschool for All grant funded and tuition-based program . Have Questions? Delorie Finch, Director The Finch Academy delorie.Finch@TheFinchAcademy.com To apply: Please send ...

The Finch Academy is a Preschool for All grant funded and tuition-based program . Have Questions? Delorie Finch, Director The Finch Academy delorie.Finch@TheFinchAcademy.com To apply: Please send ...

Lead Preschool Teacher

Portland, OR · On-site

$22.67 - $39.23/hr

The Finch Academy is a Preschool for All grant funded and tuition-based program . Have Questions? Delorie Finch, Director The Finch Academy delorie.Finch@TheFinchAcademy.com To apply: Please send ...

Lead Preschool Teacher

Portland, OR · On-site

$22.67 - $39.23/hr

The Finch Academy is a Preschool for All grant funded and tuition-based program . Have Questions? Delorie Finch, Director The Finch Academy delorie.Finch@TheFinchAcademy.com To apply: Please send ...

Preschool Teacher

Portland, OR · On-site

$18.12 - $21.93/hr

About the Role Under the direction of the School Director and Lead Teacher, the Teacher supports ... Education programs. This role helps create a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment that ...

Preschool Cook

Portland, OR · On-site

$19.50 - $23/hr

About the Role Under the direction of the School Director and classroom leadership (Lead Teacher or ... programs. This role helps maintain a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment that ...

Preschool Teacher

Tualatin, OR · On-site

$18.12 - $21.93/hr

About the Role Under the direction of the School Director and Lead Teacher, the Teacher supports ... Education programs. This role helps create a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment that ...

Preschool Teacher

West Linn, OR · On-site

$18.12 - $23.56/hr

About the Role Under the direction of the School Director and Lead Teacher, the Teacher supports ... Education programs. This role helps create a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment that ...

Preschool Teacher

Clackamas, OR · On-site

$18.12 - $21.12/hr

About the Role Under the direction of the School Director and Lead Teacher, the Teacher supports ... Education programs. This role helps create a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment that ...

Preschool Cook

Portland, OR · On-site

$19.50 - $23/hr

About the Role Under the direction of the School Director and classroom leadership (Lead Teacher or ... programs. This role helps maintain a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment that ...

Showing results 21-40

Preschool Program Director information

See Oregon salary details

$28.5K

$57.8K

$81.4K

How much do preschool program director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for preschool program director in Oregon is $57,768.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,600.00 and $66,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a preschool program director do?

A Preschool Program Director oversees the daily operations of a preschool or early childhood education program. Their responsibilities include managing staff, developing curriculum, ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations, and maintaining a safe, nurturing environment for children. They also communicate with parents, handle budgeting, and coordinate enrollment processes. The director plays a crucial leadership role in setting the tone and quality standards for the entire program.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a preschool program director?

To thrive as a Preschool Program Director, you need a background in early childhood education, program management experience, and often a relevant bachelor's degree or higher. Familiarity with licensing regulations, curriculum development software, and child assessment tools is essential. Outstanding leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help foster a positive environment for staff, children, and families. These abilities ensure the preschool operates smoothly, meets educational standards, and provides a safe, nurturing space for young learners.

What are the typical challenges a preschool program director faces in balancing administrative duties with staff support?

Preschool Program Directors often juggle a variety of responsibilities, including curriculum planning, regulatory compliance, budgeting, and staff management. One common challenge is finding the right balance between administrative tasks and providing hands-on guidance and support to teachers and staff. Effective directors prioritize open communication, delegate tasks when possible, and establish efficient processes to ensure both the program's daily operations and team development needs are met. This balance is essential for fostering a positive learning environment and maintaining high program standards.

What is the difference between Preschool Program Director vs Preschool Teacher?

AspectPreschool Program DirectorPreschool Teacher
CredentialsEarly childhood education certification, management experienceChild development or early childhood education certification
Work EnvironmentAdministrative office, overseeing programsClassroom setting with children
ResponsibilitiesProgram planning, staff supervision, complianceTeaching children, implementing curriculum

The Preschool Program Director focuses on managing the overall program, staff, and compliance, while the Preschool Teacher directly educates and cares for children. Both roles require early childhood credentials, but the director's role is more administrative and supervisory, whereas the teacher's role is classroom-focused.

How much does a preschool program director make?

The average salary for a preschool program director in Florida is approximately $45,000 to $60,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and the size of the program. Salaries may also vary based on certifications and the specific organization or location within the state.

What degree do I need to be a preschool program director?

A preschool program director typically needs a bachelor's degree in early childhood education, child development, or a related field. Some positions may require a master's degree or additional certifications in early childhood administration or management. Relevant experience in teaching or childcare is also important for this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Preschool Program jobs in Oregon?

The most popular types of Preschool Program jobs in Oregon are:

What are popular job titles related to Preschool Program Director jobs in Oregon?

For Preschool Program Director jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Preschool Program Director jobs in Oregon look for?

The top searched job categories for Preschool Program Director jobs in Oregon are:

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Preschool Program Director jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Preschool Program Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Preschool Program Director job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,768 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

$15 - $20.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Description

Position Summary:

To follow the planned curriculum as well as the direction of the Director. To supervise groups of preschool-age children and ensure all children's individual needs are met with dignity and respect as well as their safety by following YMCA policies and procedures. To model, practice and carry out the Y core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility.

Our Culture: 

Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger, beginning with you. 


Entry Requirements:

  • At least 18 years of age
  • Obtain hands-on Pediatric First Aid & CPR Certification
  • Food Handler's Card
  • High School Diploma or GED 
  • And one of the following:
  • A. Completion of 20 credits (semester system) or 30 credits (quarter system) of training at a college or university in any child education or development program OR
  • B. A one-year state or nationally-recognized credential for preschool-age children OR
  • C. At least one year of qualifying teaching experience, with at least one year as a teacher, in a Certified Child Care Center or comparable group care program, in the care of preschool-age children OR
  • D. Completion of 10 credits (semester system) or 15 credits (quarter system) of training at a college or university in any child education or development program. AND at least six months of qualifying teaching experience in a Certified Child Care Center or comparable group care program, in the care of preschool-age children

Physical/Mental Requirements:

  • Must be physically capable of observing and listening for stressful situations at all times.
  • Must be physically capable of lifting 40 pounds.
  • Must be able to quickly reach a person and/or situation to prevent harm.



Requirements

Essential Functions

CURRICULUM PLANNING:

  • Assist Director with implementation of daily lessons and curriculum
  • Must have a basic understanding of child development.
  • Teach children self-help skills and provide opportunities for independence.
  • Initiate activities and experiences that focus on all areas of development with consideration given to each child's individual needs.
  • Follow written weekly lesson plan that will be posted and used as a daily guide. 

HEALTH AND SAFETY:

  • Must know where all children enrolled in the program are at all times.
  • Follow snack protocol and post menu.
  • Care properly for program equipment and check daily for safety.
  • Equipment will be organized, stored safely and easily accessible to children and staff.
  • Indoor and outdoor space is monitored daily for health and safety concerns.
  • Any health and safety concerns are to be reported immediately.
  • Children are in your line-of-sight, and you always have proximity control. Anticipate where you need to be and what you need to do to prevent problem situations.
  • Follow all YMCA Safety protocols.

BEHAVIOR MANAGEMENT:

  • Must understand the difference between discipline and punishment.
  • Establish supportive relationships with children and implement developmentally appropriate techniques of behavior and group management.
  • Use positive verbal and non-verbal communication with children to build trusting and stable relationships.
  • Set and consistently communicate limits for acceptable behavior with logical, relevant and immediate consequences.

OTHER MANAGEMENT DUTIES:

  • Site Teacher will ensure that Site Aide is supervised within sight and sound, and ratios are maintained.
  • Site Teacher will take lead of Site when a director is absent from program.

This job description may not be all inclusive and employees are expected to perform all other duties as assigned and directed by management. Job descriptions and duties may be modified when deemed appropriate by management. Must be able to pass a vigorous background check and have reliable transportation.