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Preschool Program Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Channel Islands YMCA

PRESCHOOL DIRECTOR

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$25.35 - $30.52/hr

Flexible Schedule What does a Program Director do? * Accountable for financial development ... Childcare and Preschool Program Director must meet Site Supervisor requirements (Must possess a ...

YMCA of the Pines

Preschool Program Assistant

Medford, NJ · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

The position will fall under the general supervision of the YMCA of the Pines' Preschool Director ... Uphold and enforce program rules and DCF requirements; and * Perform such other tasks and assigned ...

YMCA of the Pines

Preschool Program Assistant

Medford, NJ · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

The Preschool Program Assistant ("assistant") will be responsible for adhering to all training and ... The position will fall under the general supervision of the YMCA of the Pines' Preschool Director ...

YMCA of the Pines

Preschool Director

Medford, NJ · On-site

$45K - $61K/yr

The Director will be responsible for all aspects of the Preschool Program ... Responsibilities include program development, staff relations, risk management, customer/community ...

Right at School

Preschool Program Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

Preschool Program Manager Right At School provides local school districts before and after school ... A) Gateways to Opportunity Level I Illinois Director Credential; or * B) 3 semester hours or 4.5 ...

Bright Future Early Learning Center

Be Seen First

Program Director

Oakland, CA · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Oversee daily implementation of infant, toddler, and preschool programs. Ensure classrooms follow ... Direct financial and fundraising matters. Develop and maintain the annual budget and monthly ...

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Preschool Program Director information

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$27K

$54.6K

$77K

How much do preschool program director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for preschool program director in the United States is $54,638.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,000.00 and $63,000.00 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 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.

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.
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Preschool Program Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Preschool Program Director job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,638 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

PRESCHOOL DIRECTOR

Channel Islands YMCA

Santa Barbara, CA • On-site

$25.35 - $30.52/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

BENEFITS THAT BENEFIT YOU

  • FREE YMCA Family Gym Membership and Program Discounts
  • FREE Medical HMO Plans Available, Long-term Disability, Employee Assistance Programs, Basic Life Insurance 
  • Affordable Medical PPO Option
  • Education Assistance Program Up To $1,500 per year 
  • YMCA Retirement Fund
  • Paid Time Off, Sick Leave, and Holidays
  • Flexible Schedule

What does a Program Director do?

  • Accountable for financial development including budgeting and meeting growth expectations
  • Management of financial controls including registration processing, implementation of accounting best practices, administration of grants and contracts, working with vendors, management of accounts receivable and payable, processing scholarships, and control of department wages
  • Develop and implement marketing plans for department growth (especially grass-roots). Work with the Marketing Department on collateral development and brand maintenance
  • Ensure compliance with established procedures, policies and standards related to health and safety. Complete routine risk assessments and correct deficiencies. Report incidents promptly.
  • Is a member of the branch safety team and is a first responder to emergency situations
  • Provide for supervision of a staff team including hiring, scheduling, enforcement of expectations, compliance with association standards, coordination with Human Resources, regular communication, and modeling of best practices
  • Responsible for providing growth and development opportunities for a staff team including goal setting, annual evaluation, coaching, and meeting/developing training plans
  • Meet program quality expectations outlined in association procedures, policies and standards for the department as evident on surveys, observations, and audits. This includes character education and Healthy Eating and Physical Activity (HEPA) standards
  • Provide for the routine management of programs such as developing program proposals, implementation of offerings, evaluating data, and communication of results
  • Lead an annual campaign team by meeting volunteer and financial goals. Additionally, support branch annual fundraising events
  • Work with volunteers in various capacities (i.e. committees, program support) by recruiting, screening, training, and evaluating
  • Provide general oversight to the branch environment including serving as a manager on duty, enforcing membership expectations, cross marketing, and working with peers on branch goals

Our Commitment to Belonging

At the Channel Islands YMCA, we are committed to building bridges within our communities. We aspire to create spaces, experiences, and a culture where all people belong and feel connected.

#CIYMCAHIGH

  • Must be at least 21 years old
  • Bachelor's degree in related field, related work experience may offset degree requirement  
  • Childcare and Preschool Program Director must meet Site Supervisor requirements (Must possess a minimum of 12 units of Child Development or related field and 3 units in Administration. A waiver may be submitted to allow for the Administration course to be completed in the first year of employment (or approved Community Care Licensing alternative)
  • 2+ years previous work experience in related field
  • Complete required certifications within 60 days of hire
  • Complete all required Branch and Position specific trainings as required within two weeks of hire
  • Ability to obtain a criminal record clearance
  • Maintain a valid California driver’s license, active participation in the California DMV Pull Program, an acceptable driving record and approval status as determined by the Channel Islands YMCA and/or its insurance carrier

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