Daycare Director - Dickinson - ABLE, Inc.

Description

Daycare Director

Location: Dickinson, ND
Schedule: Full-time, typically Monday–Friday (with occasional early/late coverage as needed)
Start Date: ASAP

About ABLE Inc.

ABLE Inc. partners with people with disabilities to live full, meaningful lives—through inclusive services, vocational opportunities, and strong community connections. We're growing thoughtfully and are committed to protecting essential community services while expanding opportunities for the people we support.

Position Summary

The Daycare Director provides day-to-day leadership and operational oversight of a licensed childcare program located within an ABLE Inc. facility. This role ensures licensing compliance, child safety, high-quality care and curriculum, and a supportive, collaborative work culture for staff and families. The Director will guide enrollment, staffing, and family engagement while upholding ABLE's mission of inclusion and community partnership.

Key Responsibilities

Program Leadership & Quality

• Lead daily operations to ensure safe, nurturing, developmentally appropriate care for all ages served.
• Implement and monitor curriculum, child assessments, and classroom practices that support social–emotional growth, school readiness, and inclusive learning.
• Establish and maintain policies and procedures aligned with state childcare licensing and ABLE Inc. standards.

Compliance & Safety

• Maintain full compliance with all licensing regulations, health/safety standards, staff–child ratios and required documentation.
• Oversee staff training and certifications (CPR/First Aid, mandated reporter, etc.) and ensure timely renewals.
• Conduct regular safety drills, incident reporting, facility checks, and corrective action plans.

Staffing & Culture

• Schedule, coach, and evaluate teaching teams and support staff.
• Foster a positive, collaborative, and mission-driven culture focused on child-centered care and respect for families.
• Lead team meetings, professional development, and performance improvement.

Family & Community Engagement

• Build trusting relationships with families; communicate promptly and professionally regarding child progress, incidents, and program updates.
• Manage enrollment, waitlists, tours, and orientation.
• Partner with ABLE Inc. teams and community resources to support inclusive practices and family needs.

Administration & Finance

• Develop and manage the program budget (tuition, staffing, supplies); track KPIs such as enrollment, attendance, and staff ratios.
• Oversee documentation and vendor relationships.
• Maintain accurate records (children, staff, training, incidents, immunizations, inspections).

Facility Management

• Ensure the center is clean, safe, and well-equipped; manage maintenance requests and supply ordering.
• Coordinate classroom placement, materials, and rotation of seasonal or developmental resources.

Minimum Qualifications

• Education: Associate's or Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Elementary Education, or a related field; or equivalent combination of education and experience per state licensing requirements.
• Experience: 2+ years in a licensed childcare setting; 1+ year in a supervisory or lead role.
• Certifications: Current (or able to obtain promptly) CPR/First Aid; Mandated Reporter; Food Safety (if applicable).
• Knowledge: State childcare licensing rules; best practices in early childhood education; inclusive and trauma-informed care.
• Skills: Strong leadership, scheduling, communication, problem-solving, and family relations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Director/Administrator experience in a licensed childcare center.
• Experience with inclusive programming and interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Familiarity with curriculum frameworks (e.g., Creative Curriculum, HighScope, or similar).
• Budgeting and enrollment management experience.
• Bilingual or multilingual a plus.

Work Conditions & Physical Requirements

• Frequent standing, lifting up to 35 lbs., bending, floor play, and outdoor supervision.
• Ability to respond quickly to children's needs and emergencies.

Compensation & Benefits

• Pay: DOE
• Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, retirement plan, paid time off/holidays, professional development, childcare discount (if applicable).

Equal Opportunity Statement

ABLE Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and families.