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Preschool Program Director Jobs in Kent, WA (NOW HIRING)

Preschool Director

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Preschool Director Lead the Next Chapter of Solomike Early Childhood Center Bellevue, Washington ... Our goal is simple: children leave our program confident, curious, kind, and excited to learn.

Preschool Director

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

Preschool Director Lead the Next Chapter of Solomike Early Childhood Center Bellevue, Washington ... Our goal is simple: children leave our program confident, curious, kind, and excited to learn.

Preschool Director

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

Preschool Director Lead the Next Chapter of Solomike Early Childhood Center Bellevue, Washington ... Our goal is simple: children leave our program confident, curious, kind, and excited to learn.

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Preschool Program Director information

See Kent, WA salary details

$30.5K

$61.7K

$86.9K

How much do preschool program director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for preschool program director in Kent, WA is $61,681.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,900.00 and $71,100.00 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 popular job titles related to Preschool Program Director jobs in Kent, WA?

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

What job categories do people searching Preschool Program Director jobs in Kent, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Preschool Program Director jobs in Kent, WA are:

What cities near Kent, WA are hiring for Preschool Program Director jobs?

Cities near Kent, WA with the most Preschool Program Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Preschool Program Director job openings in Kent, WA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 3% Full Time, 77% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,681 per year, or $29.7 per hour.

Preschool Lead Teacher

Seattle, WA • On-site

ASSOCIATED RECREATION COUNCIL
Amusement, Gambling, and Recreation • 11 - 50 employees

$28 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

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


Job description

  • Job Location – Meadowbrook Community Center - Seattle, WA
  • Position Type – Full-time
  • Start: Summer 2026
  • Starting Salary - $28.00-32.00/hr. (Employee may start at $32.00/hr upon verification of Seattle Preschool Program (SPP) education qualifications listed below)
    • Full range - $28.00 - $35.00/hr. (Employee may earn up to $35.00/hr with continued employment.)

If you have experience working with groups of preschool children ages 3-5 and have a passion for teaching, Associated Recreation Council (ARC) has a role for you as a Preschool Lead Teacher at Meadowbrook Community Center. This is a full-time role that boasts competitive pay and great benefits.

ARC, in partnership with Seattle Parks and Recreation, serves Seattle by offering access to licensed childcare and a variety of recreational and lifelong learning programs, classes, and activities. In this role, the Preschool Lead Teacher will be responsible for planning, organizing, and leading engaging activities for preschool participants ages 3 to 5, enrolled in the SPP. The Preschool Lead Teacher will create and implement a developmentally appropriate curriculum, guide classroom management, and foster a safe, fun, and inclusive environment that is welcoming to all children and families. Additionally, the Lead Teacher will mentor and provide direction to the Assistant Teacher and support staff to ensure high-quality program delivery. 

*The Seattle Preschool Program is funded by the Department of Education and Early Learning (DEEL).

Schedule:

  • Full-time position, up to 40 hours per week. The typical daily schedule is 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, with adjustments based on program needs, including SPP required planning time, trainings, and team meetings.

Preschool Lead Teacher Responsibilities:

  • Design and implement high-quality, developmentally appropriate curriculum aligned with DCYF WACs and SPP contract mandates 
  • Lead classroom operations, ensuring a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment for children ages 3–5
  • Mentor and guide assistant teachers and support staff to maintain effective classroom management and program quality 
  • Engage and communicate regularly with families, staff, and community partners to support child development and program success 
  • Maintain a staff-to-child ratio of 1:10 to ensure the safety, supervision, and well-being of all children 
  • Report directly to the Licensed Preschool Director for guidance and support 

Preschool Lead Teacher Education Requirements

  • Seattle Preschool Programs (SPP) requires a bachelor’s degree or higher, verified as “approved” in MERIT in:
    • Early Childhood Education (ECE) or a related field
      OR
    • A bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college, verified as "approved" in MERIT, AND
    • At least 30 approved ECE quarter credits verified through MERIT (up to 10 of these may be ECE-School Age hybrid credits)
  • *If you do not meet the educational requirements for this position but are committed to obtaining the required credentials, we encourage you to apply. We are open to supporting candidates who are willing to enter into an education plan to complete the necessary qualifications within 4 years of employment in the classroom.

Preschool Lead Teacher Required Experience:

  • At least 2 years of experience working with children ages 3-5 in a preschool setting
  • 2 years of experience supporting and implementing curriculum activities for a large group of children
  • Experience supervising and directing children during programming is preferred

Certifications (required):

  • DCYF Preservice Requirements and General Staff Qualifications

Benefits:

  • 100% Employer paid Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
  • 401(k) with 5% match
  • Paid time off (PTO) including 12 paid holidays and a floating holiday
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Life insurance

We are actively prescreening and interviewing for this role, so if this role is a good fit for you and you want to learn more about it, please apply now.