Daycare Director

Title: Director
Location: Palos Park, IL (on-site)
Job Type: Full-time
Reports To: Parish Rector, with oversight by the Daycare Board
FLSA Classification: Exempt

Palos Park Episcopal Daycare and Learning Center (PPED) is seeking a dynamic, relationship-centered Director to lead our established early childhood program into its next chapter of growth and stability.

PPED is a community-based daycare and learning center affiliated with the Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration, serving children and families of all backgrounds and faiths in a nurturing, play-based environment. For over 40 years, PPED has been dedicated to creating a safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate experience for every child and a supportive, professional environment where teachers can grow and succeed.

Position Summary

The Director serves as the operational and cultural leader of the center, responsible for strategic direction, staff engagement, enrollment growth, compliance, and day-to-day excellence.

The ideal candidate is both strategic and hands-on – someone who can lead systems and people, make thoughtful decisions, and step into classrooms when needed to support staff and maintain continuity.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Staff Engagement

• Recruit, hire, supervise, and mentor teaching staff
• Foster a positive, collaborative workplace culture focused on retention and professional development
• Conduct performance evaluations and facilitate regular staff meetings
• Maintain a consistent, visible presence throughout the center
• Step into classrooms as needed to support ratios and classroom continuity

Compliance & Licensing

• Ensure full compliance with all DCFS, state, and local regulations
• Maintain all required records, including child attendance, staff files, and licensing documentation
• Ensure ongoing licensing readiness and regulatory adherence

Curriculum & Program Quality

• Oversee developmentally appropriate, high-quality curriculum implementation
• Support classroom consistency and educational standards
• Monitor child development practices and ensure best practices in early childhood education

Family & Community Engagement

• Serve as the primary liaison between the center and families
• Build strong, trust-based relationships with parents
• Communicate clearly and proactively regarding policies, child development, and program updates
• Maintain a positive partnership with the affiliated church community

Operations, Enrollment & Financial Stewardship

• Oversee daily operations including enrollment management, facility safety, and health inspections
• Manage the annual budget in partnership with parish leadership
• Monitor enrollment trends and implement strategies to support sustainable growth

Safety Leadership

• Serve as the on-site safety officer
• Implement health protocols and emergency procedures
• Ensure staff completion of required safety trainings

Minimum Qualifications

• Must be Director Qualified and meet all state licensing requirements
• Gateways to Opportunity Level I Director Credential required
• Minimum 2-3 years of experience in a licensed childcare or early education setting

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education or related field
• Proven leadership experience in a licensed childcare center; previous Director or Assistant Director experience a plus
• Demonstrated success in staff supervision, hiring, and retention
• Experience managing budgets and supporting enrollment growth
• Strong communication and organizational skills
• Proficiency in childcare management software; experience with Brightwheel a plus
• Current CPR/First Aid certification

The Ideal Candidate

The successful candidate will be:

• A steady and visible leader who builds trust with families and staff
• Strategic and forward-thinking, with strong operational instincts
• Committed to building a positive, supportive team culture
• Comfortable making thoughtful decisions and leading through change
• Passionate about early childhood education and teacher development

Salary and Benefits

• Salary Range: $50,000 - $65,000, depending on experience
• Benefits Offered:
• 403b Plan, including employer contributions
• Insurance stipend
• Free childcare tuition
• Paid time off, including vacation, holidays, and sick days
• Tuition reimbursement program

To Apply: Email your cover letter and resume to rector@transfigpalos.org with the subject line: Daycare Director Application.

Pay: $50,000.00 - $65,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Childcare
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement

Work Location: In person