Early Childhood Assistant Director (Harlem Community Center)

Job Description

Job Description

YOUR IMPACT
The Early Childhood Assistant Director develops, leads and oversees staff scheduling, ensuring all IDEC ratios and grouping regulations are consistently maintained. The Assistant Director position calls for a passionate and innovative individual capable of managing day-to-day operations while fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment for children, families, and staff. With a strong commitment to outstanding customer service, organizational excellence, and the ability to effectively multitask, the Assistant Director ensures the center operates smoothly and upholds our core mission, culture, and values.

WHAT YOUR DAY MAY LOOK LIKE
No two days are the same in this role—but every day centers on supporting children, developing educators, and creating an environment where families feel welcomed and cared for.

• Start your day by connecting with staff and classrooms, ensuring children, families, and team members have everything they need for a successful day.
• Partner with the Center Director to lead and develop staff, supporting hiring, training, scheduling, payroll, and professional growth.
• Step in as the designated leader when needed, helping solve challenges, answer questions, and keep operations running smoothly.
• Monitor enrollment, attendance, and staffing trends, making adjustments to support quality programming and individual needs of children.
• Create a positive, relationship-focused environment by building strong connections with children, families, staff, and the community.
• Maintain program excellence by supporting quality standards, enrollment processes, marketing efforts, and outcome reporting.
• Ensure classrooms and common areas are safe, clean, and welcoming, overseeing supplies, facility inspections, and opening and closing procedures.
• Support your team through the unexpected, responding calmly to emergencies, addressing concerns promptly, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
• End the day knowing the little things mattered, whether it was supporting a teacher, helping a child succeed, or creating a positive experience for a family.

If you enjoy leading others, solving problems, and making a difference in the lives of young children and those who care for them, you'll find purpose in this work.

SCHEDULE & COMPENSATION: 1 Position

1 Position: Hand-n-Hand Child Care Center
Full Time, Exempt
Monday-Friday, hours vary between 6:15 am - 5:45 pm
$45,000 - $55,000 per year

QUALIFICATIONS

• At least 21 years of age, as required by IL DCFS Standards.
• Meets director qualifications established by IL DCFS Standards and state law.
• CPR, First Aid, AED certifications and Child Abuse prevention training within 30 days of hire date.
• One to three years teaching and/or program leadership experience preferred.
• Ability to plan, organize and implement age- appropriate/developmentally appropriate program activities.
• Previous experience with diverse populations. Ability to develop positive, authentic relationships with people from different backgrounds.

THERE'S SO MUCH MORE TO WORKING AT HCC! Employment benefit information available HERE.

HCC is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We offer more than just a job, rather the opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of those around you.