Center Director - Learning Jungle : Job Details

Company Overview

Learning Jungle is a leading provider of high-quality early childhood education, dedicated to fostering a nurturing and engaging learning environment for young children. Our centers emphasize both academic and social development, ensuring children are prepared for future educational success!

Position Overview

The Center Director is responsible for overseeing the daily operations, staff management, and educational programming of the Learning Jungle center in Durham, NC (Hope Valley). This position requires a strong leader who can balance business operations with a deep understanding of early childhood education. The Director will ensure compliance with state regulations, maintain high-quality learning experiences, and create a welcoming environment for children, families, and staff.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Operational Management

• Oversee all aspects of center operations, including enrollment, staffing, budgeting, and compliance with licensing regulations.
• Lead and manage a team of approximately 15 staff members, including teachers and support staff, fostering a positive and collaborative work culture.
• Develop and implement policies and procedures to ensure a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment for children under the age of 5.
• Monitor and manage the center's financial performance, including tuition collection, payroll, and expense management.

Educational Programming & Child Development

• Ensure that curriculum and teaching practices align with Learning Jungle's educational philosophy and meet or exceed state and national early childhood education standards.
• Support teachers in curriculum development, classroom management, and child assessment to ensure high-quality learning experiences.
• Conduct regular classroom observations and provide coaching and feedback to teaching staff.
• Stay current on best practices in early childhood education and implement continuous improvements to enhance learning outcomes.

Family & Community Engagement

• Build strong relationships with parents, serving as the primary point of contact for communication, concerns, and feedback.
• Plan and oversee parent engagement initiatives, including conferences, events, and workshops.
• Represent the center within the local community, building partnerships that enhance the school's reputation and enrollment.
• Ensure excellent customer service and a welcoming environment for all families.

Compliance & Safety

• Maintain full compliance with all state licensing regulations, health and safety standards, and accreditation requirements.
• Ensure staff are trained in emergency procedures, health and safety protocols, and child protection policies.
• Maintain accurate records related to licensing, staff certifications, child assessments, and center operations.

Qualifications & Skills

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Experience: Minimum of 3-5 years in a leadership role within an early childhood education setting.
• Certification: NC Level 3 Director's credential.
• Strong knowledge of state licensing requirements and early childhood education best practices.
• Business acumen, including budgeting, financial management, and staff scheduling.
• Excellent leadership and team-building skills with experience managing a diverse staff.
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, to effectively engage with parents, staff, and community members.
• Proficiency in using technology for administrative tasks, reporting, and communication.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a multi-site early childhood education organization.
• Bilingual in Spanish and English is a plus.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary of $64,000-$70,000 annually based on experience.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Tuition discounts for staff children.

This job description is not an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities or qualifications associated with the position. Learning Jungle is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Learning Jungle is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact the HR Department at [email protected].