Center Coordinator for Early Childhood Education

Since 1859, Guardian Angel Settlement Association (GASA) has served people living in poverty by helping them improve the quality of their lives and become economically independent. We welcome skilled professionals across various roles, each playing a critical part in helping thousands on their path to possibility. Position: Center Coordinator for Early Childhood Education Location: Saint Louis, MO Job Id: 142 # of Openings: 1 About Guardian Angel Settlement Association Established in 1859, Guardian Angel Settlement Association (GASA) exists to serve under‑resourced neighbors in the St. Louis community by helping them improve their quality of life and become economically independent. Guardian Angel provides a wide array of holistic services, including: Early Head Start and Head Start early childhood education Housing stability support Senior services Self‑sufficiency workshops Clothing closet Community partner resources Each year, these programs bring stability and hope to more than 4,000 underserved community members. Position Summary Under the direction of the Director of Early Childhood Education, the Center Coordinator is responsible for overseeing all aspects of educational programming for children and professional development for staff. This full‑time, exempt leadership position ensures high‑quality instruction, regulatory compliance, and a nurturing, developmentally appropriate environment for children. Work hours are flexible to meet program demands and may include occasional evenings and weekends. Qualifications Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or a closely related field (Master’s Degree preferred) Education must meet State licensing, accreditation standards, and Head Start Performance Standards Minimum of 5 years of early childhood experience At least 2 years of supervisory/management experience (childcare setting preferred) Strong leadership and management skills Excellent written and verbal communication skills Ability to work effectively with diverse populations Familiarity with Head Start Performance Standards (or willingness to obtain knowledge) Reliable transportation required (travel between St. Louis City sites) Valid driver’s license and proof of auto insurance required Key Responsibilities Leadership & Program Oversight Supervise and support childcare staff, including hiring, scheduling, training, and performance evaluation Orient, train, and supervise program volunteers Ensure compliance with licensing, accreditation, and Head Start Performance Standards Immediately report and assist in addressing areas of non‑compliance Promote teamwork, effective communication, and conflict resolution Maintain safe, clean, and healthy facilities Complete and submit required reports Implement program improvements and quality enhancement initiatives Educational Oversight Serve as subject‑matter expert in child development Support teachers in creating developmentally appropriate classrooms Ensure curriculum implementation and weekly lesson planning Supervise classroom observations and child developmental assessments Oversee assessment data entry and outcome reporting Coordinate classroom transitions and kindergarten readiness Support IEP/IFSP processes and collaborate with outside therapists Monitor home visits and parent conferences Oversee classroom placements Identify and prioritize materials and equipment needs Attain CLASS and GOLD certification and lead the assessment process Support Family Engagement staff as needed Staff Development & Training Track staff training hours Develop annual training plans Support staff in acquiring appropriate teaching credentials Create and monitor individual professional development plans General Responsibilities Assist with agency operations Support outreach and fundraising events Participate in meetings and professional development Represent the agency at community events Perform related duties as assigned Excellent written and oral communication skills Strong interpersonal and mentoring abilities Ability to conduct effective meetings and group presentations Capacity to build collaborative relationships across departments Strong technical skills and ability to learn new systems quickly Benefits Paid Time Off 401(k) with Employer Match Vision Insurance Life Insurance Short‑Term & Long‑Term Disability Insurance Employee Assistance Program Professional Development Opportunities Tuition Reimbursement Work Environment & Physical Requirements This role operates in a dynamic, mission‑driven environment that requires flexibility and adaptability. Travel between sites in St. Louis is required. The position involves leadership oversight as well as direct interaction within classrooms and community settings. Candidates must be able to: Lift 15–20 pounds as needed Bend, sit, stand, and move for extended periods Maintain a safe, clean, and healthy learning environment Professionalism, regulatory compliance, and collaboration are essential to success in this role. The Benefits of Working at Guardian Angel Full‑time employee benefits include medical, dental, life insurance; short‑ and long‑term disability; 401(k); paid time off (PTO) and paid holidays; and tuition reimbursement. Team member appreciation days, such as Agency Day each summer, enable employees to have fun and collaborate on their work. Yearly awards are given to exceptional team members. Ongoing team member trainings help build professional skills in multiple ways. Several continuing education opportunities are available throughout the year. #J-18808-Ljbffr Guardian Angel Settlement Association