Child Care Director

OPEN INTERVIEWS

TUESDAYS-1PM-3PM

WEDNESDAYS & THURSDAYS- 10AM-NOON 10015 E 59TH ST RAYTOWN, MO 64133

Just Like Family Child Care Home is seeking a qualified, dependable, and compassionate Center Director to lead our program. We are looking for a strong leader who is passionate about early childhood education, committed to maintaining licensing compliance, and dedicated to creating a safe, nurturing, and high-quality environment for children, families, and staff. The Childcare Center Director is responsible for the overall leadership, daily operations, and strategic management of a boutique-style early childhood program serving up to 31 children in a 24-hour care setting. This role ensures full compliance with Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) regulations while delivering a high-quality, relationship-centered environment where families feel valued and children thrive. This is a hands-on leadership role requiring operational excellence, strong team management, and a commitment to maintaining a safe, nurturing, and structured learning environment across all shifts (day, evening, and overnight). Key Responsibilities Leadership & Operations Oversee daily operations of a 24-hour childcare program, ensuring consistent coverage across all shifts Maintain compliance with Missouri DESE licensing regulations at all times Manage classroom ratios, staffing schedules, and enrollment capacity (31 children max) Serve as the primary point of contact for staff, parents, and regulatory agencies Ensure a clean, safe, and organized facility at all times Staff Management Hire, train, coach, and evaluate all staff members Create and manage staff schedules, including overnight and weekend coverage Conduct performance evaluations and implement professional development plans Address disciplinary actions, attendance issues, and conflict resolution Foster a positive, accountable, and team-oriented work culture Family Engagement Build strong relationships with families through consistent communication Conduct tours and manage enrollment processes Address parent concerns professionally and in a timely manner Maintain high retention through quality service and trust-building Program Quality Ensure developmentally appropriate curriculum is implemented across all age groups Monitor classroom environments and teacher-child interactions Support children's social, emotional, and educational development Administrative & Financial Oversight Manage enrollment, attendance, and billing systems (e.g., Playground) Oversee tuition collection and ensure financial policies are followed Maintain accurate records for licensing, staff files, and children's files Support budget management, supply ordering, and cost control Minimum Requirements (Missouri DESE Aligned) Must meet Missouri Child Care Licensing Director Qualifications, including: Age 21 or older High School Diploma or GED (required) AND one of the following: Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related field OR minimum of 2 years experience in a licensed childcare setting Prior leadership or supervisory experience required (Director, Assistant Director, or Lead Teacher) Knowledge of Missouri DESE licensing rules and regulations Current CPR/First Aid Certification (or willingness to obtain) Ability to pass background screening and fingerprinting Preferred Qualifications Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education or related field Experience managing a multi-shift or 24-hour childcare program Experience with subsidy systems and state assistance programs Strong administrative and organizational skills Experience with Playground or similar childcare management systems Compensation (Kansas City, Missouri Market-Based)

Salary Range:

$35,000 - $45,000 annually (based on experience, education, and performance)

Bonus Structure:

Enrollment Performance Bonus Staff Retention Bonus Licensing Compliance Bonus Annual Performance Bonus Work Schedule Expectations Primarily daytime leadership hours with on-call responsibility for evening/overnight shifts Flexibility required for: Early mornings Evenings Occasional weekends Director must be available to work on-site as required for program operations Key Competencies Leadership & Decision-Making Organization & Time Management Conflict Resolution Communication & Professionalism Compliance & Attention to Detail Emotional Intelligence & Team Development Work Environment This is a boutique childcare setting, meaning: Smaller enrollment with higher expectations for quality and relationships Hands-on leadership presence is required daily Strong focus on family experience, safety, and operational excellence The ideal candidate is a strong, present leader who can manage people, systems, and compliance while maintaining a warm, family-centered environment. This role is critical to the success, growth, and reputation of the childcare program. Why Join Us? Supportive and family-centered work environment Opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families Positive workplace focused on teamwork, professionalism, and quality care To Apply Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your qualifications, experience, and DESE director certification status. We are looking for a dedicated professional who is ready to lead with excellence and help our program grow.

Benefits:

401(k) Childcare Health savings account Referral program

Work Location:

In person