Director of Childcare (South School) at Penobscot Bay YMCA – Rockland, Maine

The Penobscot Bay YMCA is seeking a Child Care Director to lead our program at South School in Rockland. This role oversees multiple classrooms, including our public Pre-K partnership with RSU 13, and plays a key part in shaping a growing early learning program.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone who enjoys both leadership and hands-on involvement—supporting teachers, engaging with children and families, and helping build a strong, high-quality program from the ground up.

Our child care program serves toddlers through Pre-K and is rooted in creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for every child. As part of the YMCA, you’ll be joining a mission-driven organization that is deeply connected to the Midcoast community.

• Lead daily operations of the child care program, supporting both staff and classrooms

• Supervise, coach, and develop a team of child care professionals

• Provide classroom support and coverage as needed

• Ensure a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for children

• Support implementation of age-appropriate curriculum and activities

• Build strong relationships with families through clear and responsive communication

• Oversee program operations including scheduling, enrollment, and compliance

• Degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related field (or working toward)

• Experience in child care or education, with leadership experience preferred

• Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills

• Ability to build positive relationships with children, families, and teammates

• Comfort with basic computer systems and required trainings

• Monday – Friday daytime schedule (between 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM) — no nights or weekends

• Monthly State of Maine stipend (currently $240+) in addition to base pay

• Opportunity to work across classrooms serving toddlers through Pre-K

• Consistent Schedule – Monday through Friday between 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM

• Retirement Benefits – Access beginning Day 1, with potential eligibility for up to a 10% employer match after two years

• YMCA Membership – Complimentary family membership

• Additional Compensation – Eligible for monthly State of Maine stipend (currently $240+)

• Meaningful Work – Be part of a team that supports children, families, and the broader community every day

• Lead the daily operations of the child care program, ensuring a high-quality experience for children and families

• Supervise, support, and mentor child care staff through coaching, communication, and professional development

• Provide classroom coverage and support lesson planning and activities as needed

• Implement age-appropriate curriculum that supports children’s physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development

• Ensure the safety and well-being of children in a clean, secure, and nurturing environment

• Manage program operations including staff scheduling, enrollment, and day-to-day oversight

• Maintain compliance with state licensing regulations, NAEYC standards, and YMCA policies

• Lead staff meetings, training sessions, and ongoing professional development opportunities

• Communicate effectively with families, providing updates and addressing questions or concerns

• Maintain accurate records including attendance, incidents, and licensing documentation

• Build strong relationships with families and connect them to additional YMCA programs and community resources

• Foster an inclusive, welcoming environment for children, families, and staff

• Support community engagement and outreach efforts

• Perform all other duties necessary for the success of the program and organization

• Bachelor’s or Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related field (or working toward or equivalent experience)

• 1–2+ years of experience in child care, education, or a related setting

• Interest or experience in leadership, team development, and program operations

• Strong understanding of early childhood development and classroom practices

• Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills

• Ability to manage multiple responsibilities in a dynamic environment

• Commitment to creating an inclusive environment and working with diverse populations

• Comfortable using basic computer systems or willingness to learn

• Required certifications include Mandated Reporter and YMCA Child Abuse Prevention training (completed during onboarding), with CPR/First Aid/AED certification required within 30 days

The physical demands described here are representative of those required to successfully perform this role. Reasonable accommodations may be made.

• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds multiple times per day

• Frequent bending, kneeling, twisting, and movement throughout the day

• Ability to see, hear, and respond to the needs of children in a classroom environment

• Ability to safely supervise and respond to active indoor and outdoor environments

• Ability to manage and de-escalate unsafe behavior when necessary

• Regular exposure to outdoor conditions in all seasons

• Moderate noise levels, with occasional higher levels typical in child care settings (85-110 dBA)