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