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Preschool Program Director Jobs in Ridgewood, NJ

Preschool Teacher

Jersey City, NJ ยท On-site

$18 - $19/hr

Stimulates emotional, intellectual, and social growth of students by developing and directing educational programs and activities tailored to assigned class; supervising preschool * Develops and ...

Preschool Teacher

Jersey City, NJ ยท On-site

$18 - $19/hr

Stimulates emotional, intellectual, and social growth of students by developing and directing educational programs and activities tailored to assigned class; supervising preschool * Develops and ...

Group Teacher

Bronx, NY ยท On-site

$38K/yr

... Preschool Program and carrying out its functions, policies and procedure. Work with children to ... Any other task and/or duties delegated by Manager/Program Director REQUIREMENTS * Masters, BA in ...

Preschool Teacher

Jersey City, NJ ยท On-site

$15.75 - $21/hr

... developing and directing educational programs and activities tailored to assigned class ... Experience in a preschool or daycare environment is a must * Must be a strong, communicative team ...

Preschool Teacher

Jersey City, NJ ยท On-site

$18 - $20/hr

... developing and directing educational programs and activities tailored to assigned class ... Experience in a preschool or daycare environment is a must * Must be a strong, communicative team ...

Showing results 41-60

Preschool Program Director information

See Ridgewood, NJ salary details

$27.3K

$55.3K

$77.9K

How much do preschool program director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for preschool program director in Ridgewood, NJ is $55,282.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,500.00 and $63,700.00 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 job categories do people searching Preschool Program Director jobs in Ridgewood, NJ look for?

The top searched job categories for Preschool Program Director jobs in Ridgewood, NJ are:

What cities near Ridgewood, NJ are hiring for Preschool Program Director jobs?

Cities near Ridgewood, NJ with the most Preschool Program Director job openings:

Preschool Teacher

smart start academy

Jersey City, NJ โ€ข On-site

$18 - $19/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Company Overview 
Smart Start Academy is dedicated to bringing the best environment for learning and creativity to each student. Our full-day programs have a curriculum that works to meet every learning style in a way that nurtures every aspect of a child- the physical, emotional, intellectual, and social.

Job Summary
At Smart Start Academy, our Head Teachers are responsible for supervising all lead teachers and subordinates in the classroom from top-down. From setting curriculum to delegating to assistants, your role will be to ensure that lesson plans, activities, and child care progress smoothly, effectively, and to a high standard.

Lead teachers who specialize in the following age ranges:
Infant (1 to 14 months), Waddler (14 to 18 Months), Toddler (1.5 to 2 Years), Preschool (2 to 3 Years), and PreK
Responsibilities:
  • Individual management of the students
  • Daily report- Has a full communication with parents
  • Preparing lesson plans
  • Classroom management
  • Training of new hires within classroom
  • Help with cleaning/up keep of their classroom 
  • Stimulates emotional, intellectual, and social growth of students by developing and directing educational programs and activities tailored to assigned class; supervising preschool
  • Develops and nurtures children by planning and implementing educational programs; providing day-care; keeping children safe.
Qualifications and Skills:
  • Bachelor's Degree or CDA (Child Development Associate Certification) Required; 
  • Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education Preferred
  • Experience in a preschool or daycare environment is a must
  • Must be a strong, communicative team player
  • Leadership and management skills required 
Benefits and Perks:
  • Paid vacation policy 
  • Paid bonus days
  • Flexible Schedules
  • 401k
  • Competitive compensation package with generous benefits
  • Tuition reimbursement and professional development classes
  • Opportunity for growth with the fastest growing preschool in Hudson County

* Depending on education and experience *

Smart Start Academy aims to be an equal opportunity employer and is committed to promoting equal opportunities regardless of religious belief, age, color, race, creed, marital status, gender, sexual orientation, political affiliation, ethnic origin, family status or any disability you may have (subject to the exceptions contained in the Human rights Act 1993).