Child Care Center Director

Chickadee Childcare | South Portland

Join Chickadee as a Center Director and lead a joyful, supportive early childhood community. We are a growing network of relationship-centered programs serving children from infancy through age five, committed to creating warm, inclusive environments where children, families, and educators feel supported and inspired every day.

We are seeking a Center Director to guide daily operations and cultivate a positive, collaborative culture among staff and families. This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who values strong relationships, high-quality programming, and meaningful presence within the school community.

Directors at Chickadee are supported by an active leadership team and trusted to make thoughtful, independent decisions that best serve their center.

What This Role Looks Like

As Center Director, you will oversee program management and daily operations while building a stable, supportive workplace for educators. You’ll balance administrative leadership with classroom visibility, ensuring both program quality and staff wellbeing remain central to decision-making.

This role is ideal for an experienced early childhood leader seeking a sustainable, long-term position where professional judgment is valued and leadership presence matters.

Key Responsibilities

Maintain a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for children
Ensure licensing compliance with Maine regulations and all applicable laws
Oversee daily center operations including staff supervision, scheduling, and program management
Support curriculum quality and provide guidance through collaborative coaching and mentorship
Foster a respectful, team-oriented workplace culture
Build strong partnerships through consistent family communication
Interview, hire, onboard, and train new staff members
Maintain facility standards and oversee the purchasing of materials and supplies within budget
Coordinate staff communication systems and call-out procedures
Participate in ongoing professional development and maintain current knowledge of early childhood best practices

Who You Are

An experienced early childhood professional with leadership or administrative experience
A collaborative leader who values team stability, mentorship, and positive workplace culture
Organized, calm under pressure, and confident making independent decisions
A strong communicator who approaches challenges with empathy and problem-solving
Passionate about supporting teachers as much as supporting children
Interested in building a long-term leadership role within a growing organization

Leadership Philosophy (What Sets This Role Apart)

We recognize that strong Directors thrive when they are trusted and supported. This role is designed for a leader who wants to focus on coaching staff, strengthening program quality, and building community relationships. Directors are encouraged to be visible in classrooms, connected with their teams, and empowered to lead in ways that reflect their professional strengths.

Qualifications

5+ years of experience in early childhood education
Demonstrated leadership or management experience in a childcare center or preschool
Strong knowledge of Maine childcare licensing regulations
Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or related field preferred
Maine State Director Credential (or willingness to obtain)

Compensation & Benefits

Dental and vision benefits
Retirement plan options
11 paid holidays
Up to 5 weeks paid time off annually, with additional PTO accrued after 2 years
Supportive leadership structure and collaborative team culture
Opportunities for professional growth within a growing organization

Why Directors Choose Chickadee

We believe strong schools start with supported leaders. Our Directors are active members of their communities by being present in classrooms, supported by leadership, and empowered to build environments where educators feel respected and children feel at home.

Experienced Assistant Directors or Program Coordinators ready to step into a Director role are encouraged to apply.

Job Types: Full-time, Contract

Pay: $20.00 - $24.50 per hour

Benefits:

401(k)
Childcare
Dental insurance
Paid time off
Professional development assistance
Retirement plan
Vision insurance

Education:

Bachelor's (Preferred)

Experience:

Childcare: 1 year (Required)
Administration: 1 year (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

South Portland, ME 04106 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

South Portland, ME 04106: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Chickadee Infant and Toddler Care

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Child Care Director