Childcare Center Director

Join Our Flock!

Are you ready to lead a team that’s passionate about nurturing young minds in a fun, supportive environment? At Ducklings Middletown South, we believe in creating a joyful, nurturing environment that empowers children to learn, grow, and have fun every single day. If you’re a dynamic leader with a passion for early childhood education, we’d love to have you on board as our new Center Director!

About Ducklings

At Ducklings, we believe children learn best when they’re actively engaged and having fun. Our curriculum is designed to spark imagination and encourage development in a safe, supportive setting. We’re looking for a Center Director with strong leadership skills, a love for early childhood education, and a commitment to meeting (and exceeding!) licensing and accreditation requirements.

What You’ll Do

• Keep Our Ducks in a Row
• Ensure the safety of the children in your care at all times.
• Maintain compliance with all state licensing guidelines and regulations.
• Achieve and uphold state and national accreditation as required
• Lead the Flock
• Work closely with the owner, assistant or co-director, staff, students, and families to create a harmonious learning environment.
• Oversee daily center operations ensuring that it is always adhering to Ducklings’ mission, philosophy, curriculum, and business model.
• Supervise staff, manage schedules, and oversee performance reviews and evaluations.
• Work with the owner to conduct interviews and manage the hiring process, as well as staff separations when necessary.
• Create a Lively and Nurturing Environment
• Oversee lesson planning, classroom activities, and monthly decorating themes to keep things fresh, fun, and educational.
• Organize building maintenance and repairs, ensuring furniture and materials are in good shape.
• Order supplies for the office, art closet, classrooms, and special events.
• Supervise cleaning schedules to keep our center sparkling.
• Stay Organized & Tech-Savvy
• Accurately manage childcare management platforms like Brightwheel, and Teaching Strategies Gold.
• Maintain accounts receivable and ensure accurate enrollment and classroom projections.
• Meet with inspectors (Department of Health, Department of Human Services, Fire Marshal, etc.) for annual renewals.
• Build a Supportive Community
• Schedule and conduct school tours to welcome prospective families.
• Manage student registration and maintain positive communication with parents—returning phone calls and emails promptly.
• Coordinate school events that bring families together and celebrate our Ducklings community.
• Grow & Develop Your Team
• Conduct regular staff meetings and facilitate trainings to keep everyone informed and inspired.
• Offer consistent feedback and coaching to help staff spread their wings and thrive.
• Always conduct yourself and lead in a way that honors the early childhood profession—and ducks everywhere!

Qualifications

• Education: Minimum of an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education.
• Experience: At least five (5) years of supervisory experience in an early learning or school-age program.
• Credential: Must complete the Delaware Director’s Credential.
• Skills: Strong organizational, leadership, and communication abilities. Familiarity with state licensing regulations, NAEYC accreditation, and childcare management software is a plus.
• Attitude: A positive outlook, a passion for fostering child development, and a knack for creating a joyful, inclusive atmosphere.

Salary & Benefits

• Salary Range: $65,000 Annually, Commensurate with Qualifications and Experience
• Benefits Package:
• Employer-Contributed Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Paid Time Off (PTO) and Paid Holidays
• Retirement Plan with Company Match
• Professional Development & Training Opportunities
• Childcare Tuition Discount
• Bonus Plan

Ready to Dive In?

If you’re eager to make a splash leading our Ducklings community, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter through really, telling us why you’re the perfect fit to help our flock flourish.

Ducklings is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees—whether they’re walking, waddling, or swimming their way to success!

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $65,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Education:

• Associate (Required)

Experience:

• Supervising: 5 years (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• Middletown, DE 19709 (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $65,000