Childcare Center Director

Job description

Center Director – The Goddard School® (Renton)

Salary Range: $75,000–$85,000 per year

Schedule: Full-time, Monday–Friday

The Goddard School® is seeking an experienced, visionary Center Director to lead our high‑quality early childhood education program. We are looking for a motivated, relationship‑driven leader who is passionate about nurturing young minds, supporting educators, and fostering a warm, engaging school community.

As a leader in premium early childhood education for more than 30 years, The Goddard School® provides a play‑based, academically endorsed curriculum that supports children’s cognitive, physical, and social‑emotional development. Our Directors ensure that this mission comes to life every day through exceptional programming, strong family partnerships, and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

School Leadership & Operations – Oversee daily school operations, ensuring high‑quality educational programming, smooth HR processes, and compliance with state licensing and Goddard QA standards.

Team Development – Recruit, train, coach, and inspire a team of dedicated early childhood educators. Foster a collaborative, growth‑oriented culture where teachers thrive.

Family & Community Engagement – Build strong relationships with families, staff, community partners, and licensing authorities. Maintain high enrollment through proactive communication and exceptional service.

Educational Excellence – Partner with the leadership team to implement curriculum, provide ongoing teacher support, and introduce innovative programs such as STEAM, phonics, and Wonder of Learning.

Communication & Culture Building – Lead center communication efforts, including newsletters, monthly themes, and social media content to strengthen community connection.

Safety & Quality Assurance – Maintain updated policies, handbooks, and emergency plans. Conduct regular facility inspections to ensure a safe, nurturing environment.

Strategic Growth – Use data and best practices to enhance enrollment, support revenue growth, and continuously improve school performance.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Education, or related field (Master’s preferred)

Director certification or required WA state credentials (min 45 ECE)

Minimum 2–3 years of successful preschool or center leadership experience

Strong knowledge of developmentally appropriate practice and STEAM‑based curriculum

Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills

Proven ability to lead teams, build relationships, and manage school operations

Demonstrated success increasing enrollment and implementing new programs

Ability to work between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., Monday–Friday

What We Offer

Competitive salary based on experience

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k)

Generous paid time off

Professional development through Goddard Systems University (IACET‑accredited CEUs)

Opportunities for community involvement

A supportive, mission‑driven environment focused on high‑quality early education

If you are ready to inspire educators, empower young learners, and lead a thriving early childhood community, we invite you to apply and join The Goddard School® family.

Compensation: $75,000.00 - $82,000.00 per year

This Is Your Moment

The joy of childhood comes from those bright sparks of discovery -- moments that delight and surprise us. Your career at The Goddard School can be just as exciting. For more than 35 years, Goddard Schools have put each teacher at the heart of everything we do because teachers put each student at the heart of everything they do. The Goddard School trusts, empowers, and honors its exceptional educators. Develop your teaching skills in a vibrant and nurturing environment and make a difference in children's lives every day.

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Worksite address

renton, WA, 98056, US

Who can apply

Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.