Director, Child Development Center

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Center Director
Location: Zion Lutheran Child Development Center, Peshtigo, WI
Job Type: Full-Time

About Us

Zion Lutheran Child Development Center is a Christ-centered, community-focused ministry located in the heart of Peshtigo, Wisconsin . We are dedicated to providing a safe, nurturing, and spiritually enriching environment where young children can grow, learn, and thrive. We serve local families by delivering high-quality early childhood education that honors Christian values.

Position Summary

We are seeking a visionary, faithful, and experienced Center Director to oversee the daily operations, administration, and spiritual leadership of our child development center. The Director will manage staff, ensure compliance with State of Wisconsin childcare licensing requirements, build meaningful relationships with families, and integrate Christian teachings into our early childhood programs.

Key Responsibilities

• Operational Leadership: Oversee the day-to-day operations of the center, ensuring a safe, clean, and organized environment that complies with all local and state regulations.
• Staff Management: Recruit, hire, train, schedule, and supervise teachers and support staff. Provide ongoing guidance, mentorship and opportunities for professional development.  When necessary, assist with classroom coverage or other staff responsibilities to help ensure the center continues to operate smoothly.
• Curriculum & Ministry Integration: Partner with educators to maintain a age-appropriate, play-based curriculum rooted in Christian values and Lutheran faith foundations.
• Family & Community Engagement: Serve as the primary point of contact for current and prospective families. Maintain open, supportive, and compassionate communication.
• Financial Administration: Manage the center's budget, process tuitions, oversee purchasing, and coordinate with church leadership regarding financial sustainability and enrollment goals.
• Compliance & Licensing: Maintain accurate records for children and staff in full compliance with Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF) standards.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Education: Bachelor’s or Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a closely related field preferred.
• Credentials: Must meet or exceed the state requirements for a Child Care Center Director in Wisconsin (including registry tier requirements and administrator credentials).
• Experience: Minimum of 2–3 years of experience teaching in an early childhood setting, with proven administrative or leadership experience in a licensed childcare facility.
• Faith Alignment: A strong commitment to Christian values, with the ability to lead the center as an active ministry of the church.
• Skills: Excellent communication, conflict resolution, organizational, and budget management skills. Must hold (or be willing to obtain) CPR, First Aid, and SIDS certifications.

Benefits & Compensation

• Competitive salary based on education and experience
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Professional development and training assistance
• Employee childcare discount

To Apply

Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your leadership philosophy and faith journey.