Job Title: Director – Our Redeemer Little Learners

Job Description

The Director of Our Redeemer Little Learners is responsible for all facets of the day-to-day management and operations of the center in conjunction with the mission and vision of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church and state licensing requirements, so that a standard of excellence is maintained. The Director will ensure the delivery of quality childcare in a wholesome Christian environment incorporating our core values: Christ-centered -- Community-engaged -- Kingdom-focused.

Spiritual development is supported through chapel time, Christian songs, Little Lambs classroom curriculum and prayer before snacks and meals. All eligible children are encouraged to participate in Vacation Bible School in the summer. The Director will ensure that all staff, families, and children feel welcome. The atmosphere of the center must always radiate warmth, kindness, and show our love of God.

Program Oversight and Budget

• Develop and implement program operating policies and activities as required.
• Develop cost estimates for future program needs and prepare the center’s budget in conjunction with the Little Learners Board, Church Council, and Elders.
• If circumstances cause the budget to exceed projections or show potential to be exceeded, the Director may need to develop and conduct fundraising activities.
• Arrange facility repairs and maintenance with the approval of the LL Daycare Board and Our Redeemer Trustees.
• Identify opportunities and take action to maximize savings and efficiencies in operations

Staff Management and Training

• Manage employee schedules and daily labor within the Center; ensure appropriate staff-to-child ratios are maintained.

• Provide support, oversight, encouragement, instruction, and professional development assistance to full-time and part-time teaching staff. 
• Utilize and implement the Little Lambs Curriculum in all classrooms.
• Plan, develop, schedule, and/or provide in-service training and evaluation of childcare staff.
• Conduct team meetings to communicate important information, set direction, and state expectations.
• Ensure that the center and staff conform to all federal, state, and local rules, regulations, and licensing requirements.

Family and Enrollment Services

• Recruit and schedule children for the child care center.
• Maintain accurate records on children enrolled in the program, including contracts for care, attendance, and immunization records.
• Conduct program registration and collect enrollment fees.
• Maintain waiting lists and ensure enrollment documentation is complete and up to date.
• Collect tuition ensuring parent billings, account receivables, and collections are accurate and timely.
• Confer with parents on a regular basis to discuss their child’s development and address any concerns.
• Maintain a referral system for children with special needs.
• Regularly communicate with families regarding LL policies through a monthly newsletter.

Public Relations and Community Engagement

• Conduct marketing campaigns and promote the center through outreach efforts.
• Maintain positive public relations with current and prospective parents, local organizations, and colleges.
• Encourage family participation in church ministries such as Vacation Bible School and other outreach events.

Administrative and Financial Management

• Order and maintain child care supplies and equipment, while promoting cost-effective practices.
• Prepare and maintain administrative and business records and reports, including fee payments, billing, and follow-up actions for late payments.
• Review income, expenses, and budget reports to maintain financial stability.
• Analyze financial problems and make recommendations or take corrective actions.
• Review all payroll, expenses, and income with the LL Board, Church Elders, and Church Council.
• Organize and oversee special activities such as off-campus field trips.
• Utilize computer software management systems for financial, marketing, and communication
• Assist as necessary with teacher duties, including ensuring teachers receive assigned breaks and lunches.

Problem-Solving and Policy Updates

• Ensure that problems encountered by staff are resolved in a timely and effective manner.
• Recommend and implement policy or procedural changes with the approval of the LL Daycare Board to ensure smooth and effective operation of the program.

Church and Board Involvement

• Serve as a permanent member of the LL Daycare Board.
• Attend all meetings of the Board and other church-related meetings as required.

Supervisory Responsibility

This position manages all employees of the child care center and is responsible for performance management and hiring/maintaining all employees within the center.

Work Environment

This job operates in a child care environment and is split between administrative office duties and hands-on teaching. The Director position will dedicate approximately 40% of each day to director-related responsibilities and 60% to classroom and teaching support.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. The employee is occasionally required to sit; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, or crouch. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally up to 40 pounds.

Position Type / Expected Hours of Work

This is a full-time position. Days of work are generally Monday through Friday. Evenings and weekend hours may be required for job-related training classes or ministerial outreach and programming.

Qualifications

• a. Have successfully completed six credit hours or 36 clock hours of Department-approved training in administration, early childhood education, education, or child/youth development. Business courses may be included, not to exceed one-half of the credit or clock hour requirement; or 
• b. A written, Department-approved plan to acquire at least six credit hours or 36 clock hours of Department-approved training in administration, early childhood education, education, or child/youth development, in a period not to exceed 12 months. Business courses may be included in the plan, not to exceed one half of the credit or clock hour requirements.

Additional Qualities

As an employee of our organization, a community of faith, this position is a representative of our ministry team. The ideal candidate will be able to inspire and encourage others through positive communication and enthusiasm, practicing courtesy and hospitality to all, regardless of age, background, or race.

The following additional traits are required:

• A love of children
• Ability to inspire and encourage others
• Ability to multitask and remain organized
• Strong time management skills
• Ability to be an exceptional steward of finances and resources

To apply, submit a cover letter, resume and three references to kerry.beckmann@orlcne.org.