Assistant Director of Daycare

Job Description

Job Description

Kiddie Academy of UP - Assistant Early Childhood Center Director

University Place, WA  |  Full-Time  |  $23–$26/hr

Join a brand-new, community-focused early learning center (opening Fall 2026) with a proprietary play-based curriculum. Partner with the Center Director to lead daily operations, mentor teaching staff, and ensure DCYF licensing compliance — in a state-of-the-art new facility.

Key Responsibilities

•    Manage daily opening/closing, staffing schedules, and family drop-off/pick-up flow

•    Maintain DCYF licensing compliance via routine audits, incident/allergy/medication logs, and safety drills

•    Provide instructional coaching: classroom observations, curriculum implementation feedback, lesson planning support

•    Lead new-hire onboarding (policies, MERIT registry, professional development plans)

•    Optimize staffing schedules and classroom ratios

•    Conduct family tours, manage parent communication and conflict resolution, host events

•    Use childcare management software for attendance, records, and billing

•    Manage classroom supply procurement within budget

Qualifications

•    21+ with valid driver's license; clear DCYF portable background check (fingerprinting), negative TB test

•    Proof of immunization/immunity: MMR, hepatitis, chicken pox

•    Minimum 2 years classroom teaching experience in a licensed facility, plus 1–2 years in an assistant director, program coordinator, or similar supervisory role

•    High School Diploma required; ECE State Certificate or Associate/Bachelor's in ECE, Child Development, or related field (or equivalent)

•    Strong knowledge of DCYF licensing standards and the MERIT system

•    Excellent emotional intelligence, communication, and crisis-management skills

•    Proficiency with childcare apps (Brightwheel, Procare, Tadpoles, TSG) and Microsoft Office preferred

Benefits

•    Competitive pay ($23–$26/hr) with annual performance reviews

•    401K matching & health insurance

•    Paid time off and major holidays

•    Professional development assistance and training

•    Employee discounts in a brand-new facility

How to Apply

Submit your resume and a brief cover letter on this job board