Child Care Director at Berkshire Family YMCA – Bennington, Vermont

About Company:

Berkshire Family YMCA is a 501(c)(3) cause-driven nonprofit organization whose mission is to put Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility into programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.

The Y’s Commitment to America is developing new generations of changemakers who will create communities we all want to live in. We envision communities where all people achieve health, gain confidence, make connections and feel secure at every stage of life.

The Y is the leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community by connecting all people to their potential, purpose and each other. Working locally, we focus on empowering young people, improving health and well-being, and inspiring action in and across communities. By bringing together people from different backgrounds, perspectives and generations, we ensure that we all have access to the opportunities, relationships and resources necessary to learn, grow, and thrive.

CARING: Show a sincere concern for others

HONESTY: Be truthful in what you say and do

RESPECT: Treat each other as we’d all like to be treated

RESPONSIBILITY: Be accountable for your promises and actions

WELCOMING: We’re open to all and create spaces where you can be, belong and become

GENUINE: We value who you are and encourage you to be true to yourself and others

NURTURING: We’re with you on your path to reach your full potential

HOPEFUL: We believe in your ability to inspire a brighter tomorrow

DETERMINED: We work relentlessly to strengthen communities, starting with you

FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT: Empowering young people to reach their full potential

FOR HEALTHY LIVING: Improving individual and community well-being

FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY: Providing support and inspiring action in our communities

About the Role:

The Child Care Director is responsible for overseeing the daily operations and overall management of a child care facility, ensuring a safe, nurturing, and educational environment for children. This role involves developing and implementing policies, managing staff, and maintaining compliance with state and federal regulations. The director will collaborate with parents, staff, and community partners to promote the well-being and development of every child in the program. Additionally, the Child Care Director will lead efforts to continuously improve program quality through staff training, curriculum development, and resource management. Ultimately, this position ensures that the facility operates efficiently while fostering a positive and supportive atmosphere for children and their families.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field.
• Minimum of three years of experience in child care or early childhood education, including supervisory or management experience.
• Knowledge of state and federal child care licensing regulations and compliance requirements.
• Strong leadership and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work collaboratively with staff, families, and community partners.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Educational Leadership, or a related discipline.
• Experience with accreditation processes such as NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children).
• Certification in CPR and First Aid.
• Familiarity with budgeting and financial management software.
• Bilingual abilities or experience working with diverse populations.

Responsibilities:

• Manage and supervise all aspects of the child care center’s daily operations, including staff scheduling, enrollment, and facility maintenance.
• Develop, implement, and monitor policies and procedures to ensure compliance with licensing requirements and safety standards.
• Recruit, hire, train, and evaluate child care staff to maintain high-quality care and educational programming.
• Collaborate with parents and guardians to address concerns, provide updates on child development, and foster strong family engagement.
• Oversee budgeting, financial management, and resource allocation to support program sustainability and growth.
• Plan and coordinate curriculum development and enrichment activities that promote children’s cognitive, social, and emotional development.
• Maintain accurate records related to attendance, health, safety, and staff credentials.
• Lead continuous quality improvement initiatives and participate in professional development opportunities.

Skills:

The Child Care Director utilizes leadership and organizational skills daily to manage staff, coordinate activities, and ensure smooth facility operations. Strong communication skills are essential for engaging with parents, staff, and regulatory agencies effectively. Knowledge of early childhood education principles guides curriculum development and quality improvement efforts. Problem-solving and decision-making skills are applied to address challenges related to staffing, compliance, and child welfare. Additionally, financial acumen supports budgeting and resource management to maintain program sustainability and growth.