Early Learning Director Full Time

Job Description

The YMCA is seeking an Early Learning Center Director to lead our preschool program in Reston, Virginia. This role goes beyond managing a center—you will shape the early learning experiences of young children while leading a team committed to belonging, growth, and community impact.

As Director, you will oversee daily operations, licensing compliance, staff development, enrollment, and family engagement. You will ensure classrooms reflect developmentally appropriate practice, strong social-emotional learning, and a nurturing environment where every child can thrive.

At the Y, early learning is part of a broader mission to strengthen communities Our programs prioritize access, strong family partnerships, and meaningful early learning experiences. You will be supported by an association team that provides Human Resources, training, compliance, and marketing support so you can focus on quality teaching and leadership.

If you are ready to build a strong teaching team and create an engaging early learning environment for children and families, we invite you to join the Y.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, Child Development, Recreation, Human Services, or a related field
• At least 3 years of leadership experience in a licensed child care or preschool program
• Experience supervising staff, supporting curriculum quality, and working with families
• Strong organizational, leadership, and administrative skills

Essential Functions

• Lead daily operations of a licensed preschool program
• Hire, coach, and develop a team of high-quality educators
• Ensure licensing compliance and a safe, nurturing learning environment
• Build strong relationships with families and support family engagement
• Manage enrollment, tours, and new family onboarding
• Communicate regularly with families about classroom learning and child development
• Develop and manage the program budget in partnership with branch leadership
• Foster a culture of professional growth, collaboration, and mission alignment
• Be part of a collaborative team who brings the Y’s mission to life in the Reston community

Who You Are

• An experienced early childhood educator with strong knowledge of child development
• A collaborative leader who supports and inspires teaching staff
• A relationship builder who connects easily with families and community partners
• An organized manager comfortable with enrollment, operations, and compliance
• A clear communicator with strong written and verbal skills

Cause-Driven Leadership Competencies

• Mission Advancement: Incorporates the Y’s mission and values into the organization’s vision and strategies. Ensures community engagement; promotes the global nature of the Y. Leads a culture of volunteerism, ensuring engagement, inclusion, and ownership.
• Collaboration: Initiates the development of relationships with influential leaders to impact and strengthen the community. Is recognized as an inspirational community leader who navigates complex political and social circles with ease. Communicates to engage and inspire people within and outside the YMCA. Ensures that a talent management system is in place and executed effectively.
• Operational Effectiveness: Possesses penetrating insight and strong strategic and critical thinking skills. Invests resources in well-designed innovation initiatives. Creates a structure to deliver organization-wide results to achieve objectives. Develops and implements stewardship strategies. Determines benchmarks and ensures appropriate leadership to meet objectives.
• Personal Growth: Creates a learning organization. Effectively drives change by leveraging resources and creating alignment to expand organizational opportunities. Shares authority and demonstrates courage and humility. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology.

Required Certifications

Team Leader certification

Why You Should Join Us

• The YMCA offers a supportive, mission-driven environment where your work makes a real difference for children and families.
• Meaningful Impact: Help children build strong foundations for learning and life
• Collaborative Culture: Work with a passionate team dedicated to youth development
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance: Comprehensive plans to ensure you and your family can receive the care you need.
• Wellness Programs: Y membership for you and your family to support your physical and mental health.
• Retirement Plans to Secure your Financial Future: The Y will contribute 10% of your salary into the Y’s retirement savings plan after eligibility requirements are met. You also have the option to make additional contributions to the Y’s 403(b) and ROTH plans.
• Work-Life Balance: Generous vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Training and Development: Access to professional development programs, workshops, and certifications.
• Welcoming Environment: A commitment to ensuring all employees feel valued.