Find & Apply For Preschool / Childcare Director Jobs in Park Ridge, Illinois

Early Childhood Education Director Lead with Purpose. Build a Strong Team. Make a Difference. We are seeking an experienced and passionate Early Childhood Education Director to lead our childcare program and oversee the day-to-day operations of our academy. We are looking for more than someone who can keep the academy running. We want a hands-on leader who takes ownership, develops people, builds strong relationships with families, and creates a positive environment where children and teachers can thrive. The ideal candidate will have experience in early childhood education administration, staff leadership, family engagement, and regulatory compliance, with a strong commitment to quality care and education. Key Responsibilities Center Operations Oversee daily academy operations, staffing, scheduling, and classroom ratios. Ensure compliance with Illinois DCFS licensing requirements. Maintain a safe, organized, and welcoming environment. Address operational needs and follow through to resolution. Staff Leadership Train, coach, mentor, and support team members. Set clear expectations and maintain staff accountability. Address performance concerns professionally and consistently. Build a positive, collaborative team culture and develop future leaders. Family Relationships Build strong relationships with children, families, and staff. Respond to parent questions and concerns with professionalism and care. Communicate effectively regarding children's development, classroom experiences, and Academy activities. Education & Quality Support a high-quality, developmentally appropriate curriculum. Observe classrooms and provide constructive teacher feedback. Promote consistent standards for safety, supervision, learning, and classroom management. Support ongoing professional development. What We Are Looking For Previous experience as a Child Care Director, Center Director, Assistant Director, or comparable leadership role. Strong knowledge of early childhood education, center operations, and Illinois DCFS requirements. Proven staff leadership, coaching, and development experience. Strong communication, organizational, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Professional, dependable, accountable, and comfortable in a fast-paced environment. Genuine passion for children, families, and early childhood education. Ability to lead by example, build strong relationships, take ownership, and follow through. Understanding that successful center leadership requires both strong educational and operational leadership. Education & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education OR Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education 60 college credits with 21 credits in Early Childhood, including 3 semester credits in ECE management. Must meet all required background checks Why Join Us? This is an opportunity to take a meaningful leadership role in an early childhood program where your ideas, leadership, and experience can make a direct impact. You will have the opportunity to work closely with the academy director and leadership, develop a strong teaching team, build relationships with families, and help shape the continued growth and success of the center. If you are an experienced early childhood leader who is ready to take ownership and make a meaningful difference, we would love to hear from you.

Pay:

$55,000.00 - $60,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Employee discount Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person