Non-Profit Child Care Center Director

Reports To: Board of Directors

FLSA Status: Exempt / Part-time into Full-time

Position Summary

Oshkosh Child Development is looking for an experienced director to create and operate a new non-profit, two-shift center on Main Street coming to downtown Oshkosh. The center director is responsible for the overall management, leadership, and daily operations of our center. This includes ensuring compliance with licensing regulations, maintaining a safe and nurturing environment, supervising staff, managing budgets and enrollment, implementing educational programs, and fostering positive relationships with families, children, staff, and the community.

Key Responsibilities

1. Leadership & Management

• Provide visionary leadership and strategic planning to ensure the center meets educational, developmental, and operational goals.
• Recruit, hire, train, supervise, and evaluate teaching staff and support personnel.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and collaborative workplace culture.
• Boards of Directors management and participation

2. Licensing & Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with WI-DCF child care licensing requirements, health and safety regulations, and quality standards.
• Maintain all required documentation, inspections, and reporting.
• Develop and implement center policies, procedures, and emergency plans.

3. Curriculum & Program Development

• Oversee the implementation of age-appropriate, research-based curriculum aligned with Wisconsin Model Early Learning Standards.
• Support teachers in planning and assessing learning experiences.
• Monitor classroom environments for quality, engagement, and safety.
• Implement YoungStar Quality Improvement Criteria and rating system.

4. Family & Community Engagement

• Build strong, responsive relationships with parents and guardians; communicate openly about children’s progress and center updates.
• Coordinate family events, conferences, and community partnerships.
• Address parent concerns professionally and promptly.

5. Financial & Administrative Management

• Develop and manage budgets, tuition collection, payroll, and purchasing.
• Monitor enrollment, conduct tours, and manage waitlists to maintain or grow capacity.
• Oversee administrative functions such as recordkeeping, scheduling, and reporting.
• Fundraising, including grant application writing

6. Health, Safety & Nutrition

• Ensure safe, clean, and supportive learning environments.
• Oversee health protocols, medication administration, and incident reporting.
• Monitor meal service and nutrition guidelines.

Qualifications

Education and Experience

· Have an associate or bachelor’s degree in education or early childhood education

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Education Administration, or related field.
• Minimum of 2–5 years of early childhood teaching experience and 1–3 years of supervisory or management experience.
• Director’s credentials or certifications as required by the WI DCF.

Knowledge & Skills

• Strong understanding of child development principles and early childhood education best practices.
• Past experience starting and developing quality child care programs and staff.
• Knowledge of Wisconsin licensing regulations and accreditation standards (e.g., NAEYC, QRIS).
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency with administrative software, recordkeeping, and budgeting.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, sit on the floor, lift up to 40 lbs, and interact physically with children.
• Ability to respond quickly in emergency situations.

Work Environment

This role operates in a busy child care setting with frequent interaction with children, families, and staff. Occasional evening or weekend work may be required for events, training, or emergencies.

Compensation and Benefits

· $50,000-$55,000 annual salary based on qualifications and experience

· Annual center performance bonus

· 10 paid vacation days

· 5 paid personal days

· Paid holidays

· Paid continuing education

· Paid Professional Days

· Free child care

*Equal Opportunity Employer*