Executive Director

Buffalo Children's Center Caring Hearts. Empowered Families. Learning Together.

DIRECTOR

Position Summary We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Child Care Center Director to lead our licensed facility, Buffalo Children's Center (BCC) in Buffalo, Wyoming. The Director will oversee all aspects of daily operations, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, safe, and nurturing early childhood education for children aged 6 weeks to 6 years old. This role requires strong leadership, compliance with Wyoming Department of Family Services (DFS) Child Care Licensing Rules and a passion for fostering child development. The Director reports to the Board and will manage a team of educators and support staff. Full time position. Key Responsibilities

Program Management and Curriculum Oversight:

Develop, implement, and evaluate age-appropriate curriculum aligned with Wyoming early childhood education standards. Ensure activities promote cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development while adhering to licensing ratios.

Staff Supervision and Development:

Recruit, train, and supervise staff, including conducting performance evaluations and facilitating ongoing professional development through the Wyoming Statewide Training and Resource System (STARS). Ensure all staff complete required pre-service training, facility orientation, and annual continuing education within 3 months of hire or as mandated.

Licensing and Regulatory Compliance:

Maintain full compliance with Wyoming Child Care Licensing Rules, prepare for and coordinate annual inspections, maintain all records (e.g., enrollment, health, attendance), and report incidents to DFS Licensing immediately. Ensure the center meets health, sanitation and fire safety standards.

Health, Safety, and Emergency Preparedness:

Oversee child health screenings, medication administration, and emergency procedures per the Wyoming Emergency Preparedness Plan. Maintain current first aid/CPR certifications for self and staff, and conduct regular drills.

Parent and Community Engagement:

Build strong relationships with families through open communication, parent meetings, and involvement in center events. Represent the center in community partnerships and advocate for early childhood initiatives.

Administrative Duties:

Manage budgets, enrollment, billing, and facility maintenance. Be on-site and available least 90% of the operating week; designate a qualified assistant director during absences.

Quality Improvement:

Monitor program quality using tools like Environment Rating Scales and implement improvements based on feedback from children, families, and staff.

Qualifications Education and Experience:

Bachelor's degree in early childhood education, child development, elementary education, or a related field; OR Associate's degree in a related field plus two years of full-time experience in early childhood management/education; OR equivalent combination of education (e.g., 60 semester hours with 30 in early childhood/child development) and two years of experience in a licensed child care setting. Must demonstrate knowledge of child growth/development principles.

Licensing-Specific Requirements:

• At least 21 years of age.
• Pass a full national fingerprint-based criminal background check, Wyoming Central Registry of Abuse and Neglect check, and sex offender registry screening with no disqualifying offenses.
• Negative tuberculosis (TB) risk assessment or clear chest X-ray
• Current certification in first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), including infant/child techniques. o Completion of STARS-approved pre-service training and facility orientation prior to assuming direct care responsibilities (or within 3 months of hire).
• High School Diploma or GED
• Have any combination of education and experience equivalent to one (1) year in the areas of early childhood management, early childhood education, child development, or another related field.

Skills and Abilities:

• Excellent organizational and communication skills
• Proficiency in child care software (e.g., for attendance/billing)
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs. and engage in active play
• Cultural sensitivity and commitment to inclusive practices. Physical and Work Environment
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and kneel for extended periods in a dynamic indoor/outdoor environment.
• Exposure to common childhood illnesses; must meet health requirements for working with children.

How to Apply Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and three professional references to bccshanda@gmail.com This position ensures compliance with Wyoming Child Care Licensing Rules. All requirements are subject to updates from the Wyoming Department of Family Services. Additional Duties for Child Care Center Director

Strategic Planning and Vision:

Develop and implement a long term vision for the center, setting goals for program quality, enrollment growth, and staff development.

Policy Development and Enforcement:

Create, update, and enforce center policies (e.g., parent handbooks, staff manuals) in compliance with Wyoming DFS regulations, ensuring clarity on procedures for health, safety, discipline, and parent communication.

Financial Oversight:

Develop and manage the center's budget, including tuition rates, staff salaries, and operational expenses. Monitor financial performance, seek cost-saving opportunities, and explore funding sources such as grants or subsidies through the Wyoming DFS or Child and Adult Care Food Program.

Staff Recruitment and Retention:

Lead recruitment efforts to attract qualified staff, ensuring compliance with background check and training requirements. Implement retention strategies, such as recognition programs or professional growth opportunities, to maintain a stable, motivated team.

Professional Development Leadership:

Oversee the center's participation in the Wyoming Statewide Training and Resource System (STARS), ensuring all staff meet pre-service and annual training requirements. Organize in-house training sessions or partner with external providers to enhance staff skills in early childhood education.

Community Partnerships:

Build and maintain relationships with local schools, businesses, and organizations to enhance the center's visibility and resources. Represent the center at community events, early childhood councils, or advocacy groups to promote quality child care initiatives.

Parent Engagement Programs:

Develop programs to strengthen family involvement, such as workshops on child development, parenting classes, or volunteer opportunities.

Crisis Management:

Lead the response to emergencies or crises (e.g., health outbreaks, facility issues) by coordinating with staff, families, and authorities. Ensure the center's Emergency Preparedness Plan is up-to-date and staff are trained in its execution.

Inclusion and Diversity Initiatives:

Promote an inclusive environment by ensuring curriculum and activities reflect the cultural, linguistic, and developmental diversity of enrolled children. Collaborate with specialists to support children with special needs, adhering to Wyoming's inclusive care standards.

Marketing and Enrollment Growth:

Oversee marketing efforts, such as updating the center's website, social media, or community outreach materials, to attract new families. Manage enrollment processes to maintain optimal capacity while adhering to licensing ratios.

Facility Maintenance and Upgrades:

Coordinate regular maintenance of the facility, playground, and equipment to meet Wyoming health, sanitation, and fire safety standards. Plan and budget for upgrades to enhance the learning environment.

Data-Driven Decision Making:

Collect and analyze data on child outcomes, parent satisfaction, and staff performance to drive continuous improvement. Use findings to inform curriculum adjustments, staff training, or operational changes.

Advocacy and Compliance Monitoring:

Stay informed about updates to Wyoming Child Care Licensing Rules and advocate for the center's needs with DFS or other regulatory bodies. Prepare detailed reports for licensing inspections and ensure timely submission of required documentation.

Sustainability Initiatives:

Explore eco-friendly practices, such as reducing waste or implementing energy-saving measures, to align with community values and teach children about environmental responsibility. Notes

• These duties enhance the Director's role in leading a successful child care center by focusing on strategic leadership, community engagement, and operational excellence while ensuring compliance with Wyoming Child Care Licensing Rules
• Duties may vary based on the center's size, budget, and specific needs, but all must align with DFS requirements for health, safety, and program quality.
• The Director should model professionalism and foster a collaborative, child-centered culture to ensure long-term success.

Pay:

$45,000.00 - $50,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Employee discount Paid time off Professional development assistance

Work Location:

In person