Description

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

The Center Manager is responsible for the overall operation of an early childhood center, including supervision of staff and building strong, supportive relationships with families and the community. This role ensures compliance with Head Start Performance Standards, Georgia Bright from the Start: Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL) Rules and Regulations and ECS4Kids, while fostering a high-quality, culturally responsive learning environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Center Operations & Staff Leadership

• Oversee daily center operations, ensuring compliance with licensing, health, and safety standards.
• Supervise and support teaching staff through regular feedback, professional development, and team building.
• Lead staff meetings to review policies, procedures, and promote collaboration across roles.
• Manage center budget, petty cash, and supply inventory within established guidelines.
• Coordinate meal service, site maintenance, and substitute staffing as needed.

Educational Quality & Classroom Support

• Ensure classrooms meet high-quality standards and support curriculum implementation using Creative Curriculum.
• Guide teachers in child observations, data analysis, and individualized goal setting.
• Model positive child guidance techniques and support staff in managing challenging behaviors.
• Maintain accurate classroom records including lesson plans, assessments, attendance, and portfolios.

Family Engagement & Advocacy

• Build trusting, two-way relationships with families to support child development and family well-being.
• Collaborate with the Family Advocate to plan parent meetings, workshops, and engagement activities.
• Support in-kind contribution efforts and ensure accurate documentation of parent involvement. Represent the center at inter-agency meetings and community events to build partnerships and advocate for children and families.

Health, Safety & Compliance

• Ensure children receive necessary health, mental health, and special needs services.
• Submit timely and accurate reports, documentation, and administrative paperwork.

(These job functions are not to be construed as a complete statement of duties. Employees will be required to perform other related duties as required.)

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Bachelor’s degree?in Early Childhood Education, Management, Human Services, Family Services, or a related field?preferred, with relevant experience in childcare center management. 
• Must?complete a Director’s Credential program approved by the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL)?prior to center licensing. 

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ABILITIES: 

• Early Childhood Education: Understanding of child development, curriculum implementation (e.g., Creative Curriculum), and developmentally appropriate practices. 
• Head Start & VPK Regulations: Familiarity with Head Start Performance Standards, Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) requirements, and USDA food program guidelines. 
• Licensing & Accreditation: Knowledge of Georgia’s DECAL regulations and state accreditation standards. 
• Health & Safety: Awareness of child health, mental health, and special needs services, including screening and referral processes. 
• Leadership & Supervision: Ability to lead a small team, provide coaching and feedback, and foster a collaborative work environment. 
• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills for interacting with families, staff, and community partners. 
• Organizational & Time Management: Skill in managing multiple responsibilities, maintaining accurate records, and meeting deadlines. 
• Problem-Solving: Ability to address classroom challenges, staff needs, and operational issues with sound judgment. 
• Technology Proficiency: Competence in using systems like ChildPlus, Microsoft Office, and digital tools for documentation and reporting. 
• Build Relationships: Establish trust and rapport with families, staff, and community stakeholders. 
• Adaptability: Flexibility to support classroom needs, respond to emergencies, and adjust to changing priorities. 
• Cultural Competence: Ability to work effectively with diverse populations and promote inclusive practices. 
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Use child assessment data to inform planning and support. 
• Advocacy: Represent the program in the community and advocate for children and families’ needs. 

CERTIFICATIONS: 

• Complete TB screening & physical before having direct contact with children. Renew every 2 years. 
• Must have current First Aid and Pediatric Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) training. 
• At least 10 hours of state-approved training completed within the first 90 days of employment. 
• 25 hours of annual training?(January–December) in topics related to child development, health and safety, curriculum, and program operations. 
• Training must be?Georgia state-approved?and documented in the staff member’s personnel file. 
• Renewal of Director’s Credential six months prior to expiration date to ensure compliance, if applicable. 
• Valid driver’s license and proof of automobile coverage 
• Satisfactory Driving Record (as outlined in Vehicle Driving Policy) 

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS: 

• Works inside in a childcare setting 
• Some travel required 
• Occasional night and/or weekend work possible to fulfill the requirements of the position 

ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL SKILLS: 

Mobility & Stamina 

• Ability to?stand, walk, bend, kneel, and sit on the floor?for extended periods. 
• Move quickly in response to emergencies or to assist children. 

Lifting & Carrying 

• Lift and carry children up to?40 pounds?as needed. 
• Move classroom equipment, supplies, and materials. 

Fine & Gross Motor Skills 

• Use hands and fingers for writing, typing, and handling small objects. 
• Engage in physical play or assist with activities requiring coordination. 

Visual & Auditory Acuity 

• Monitor children’s safety and behavior visually and audibly in a busy environment. 
• Read printed materials and computer screens; hear conversations and alarms. 

Speech & Communication 

• Speak clearly and effectively with children, staff, and families. 
• Use expressive language to model communication for children. 

Environmental Tolerance 

• Work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions. 
• Tolerate noise levels typical of a childcare setting.