Associate Director | Leadership & Center Operations
Wesley Chapel, FL
Position: Full-Time | Leadership & Administration
Availability Requirement: Must be available during the weeks of Thanksgiving and Christmas, including the beginning of each holiday week. The center is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day.
About Us
Our company is a nationally recognized leader in early childhood education, with 500+ centers nationwide. We are committed to providing exceptional childcare, innovative educational experiences, and a nurturing environment where children, families, and educators thrive.
At our school, we believe strong leadership is the foundation of a successful childcare center. Our mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of children, their families, and the communities we serve.
We are seeking a motivated, hands-on, and results-driven Associate Director who is passionate about early childhood education, team leadership, and operational excellence.
This is a leadership position, not simply an administrative role. The ideal candidate is confident in making decisions, holding staff accountable, supporting teachers, building relationships with families, and taking ownership of daily center operations.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Staff Development
• Support the Center Director in overseeing daily operations and staff performance.
• Lead, coach, and motivate teachers while maintaining high standards of professionalism and accountability.
• Assist with hiring, onboarding, staff training, evaluations, and scheduling.
• Address staff concerns, resolve challenges, and confidently lead in the Director's absence.
Center Operations & Compliance
• Ensure compliance with Florida DCF licensing regulations, health and safety standards, and classroom ratios.
• Maintain accurate student and employee records, training documentation, and enrollment files.
• Assist with payroll, tuition collection, supply orders, and administrative reporting.
• Manage daily administrative tasks using our management system and other platforms.
• Provide classroom support when needed to maintain smooth operations.
Enrollment & Family Engagement
• Conduct engaging center tours and follow up with prospective families to support enrollment growth.
• Build positive relationships with families and address concerns professionally.
• Support community outreach, marketing initiatives, and student retention.
• Coordinate family events, celebrations, and center activities.
Curriculum & Educational Excellence
• Support teachers in implementing curriculum.
• Conduct classroom walkthroughs and provide constructive feedback to educators.
• Maintain high expectations for classroom management, student engagement, and educational quality.
Qualifications
Required
• Minimum 1–2 years of leadership or management experience in a childcare or early childhood education setting.
• Minimum 2-3 years of experience working with children ages 0–6.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to coach, motivate, and hold staff accountable.
• Excellent communication, organization, and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to multitask, take initiative, and make confident decisions.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Google Workspace, and administrative systems.
• Willingness to support classrooms when operationally necessary.
Preferred
• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field.
• Previous experience as an Associate Director, Assistant Director, Center Director, or Lead Teacher.
• Knowledge of Florida DCF childcare licensing regulations.
• Florida Director Credential or eligibility to obtain one.
• Experience with enrollment management, staff scheduling, and family engagement.
Who We're Looking For
Our ideal Associate Director is someone who:
• Leads rather than waits to be directed.
• Takes initiative, demonstrates accountability, and follows through on responsibilities.
• Confidently manages staff and maintains professional expectations.
• Balances leadership responsibilities with hands-on center support.
• Remains calm, organized, and solution-focused under pressure.
• Takes pride in the center's success, reputation, and overall environment.
We want a leader who takes ownership, supports their team, and helps drive the center forward.
Why Join Us?
• Health and dental insurance
• Paid holidays
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Competitive compensation
• Supportive and collaborative leadership team
• Professional development and career advancement opportunities
• A positive, mission-driven environment
Apply Today!
Join our school and help us create an exceptional early childhood education experience for children, families, and educators.
If you are an experienced early childhood professional ready to take the next step in leadership, we encourage you to apply!
We're looking for someone who doesn't just manage the day but helps lead the center forward.