Job Description

POSITION TITLE: Center Director (MA Early Childhood Education and Current NYS Birth-Grade 2 certification req. )

DEPARTMENT: Early Childhood

LOCATION(S): Bronx

REPORTS TO: Bronx Regional Director

SALARY RANGE: $87,000 - $93,000

DATE: January 2026

Schedule: This full-time, in-person role is Monday through Friday, with shifts from 8 am to 4 pm, 9 am to 5 pm, or 10 am to 6 pm. Hours may vary based on program needs.

Grand St. Settlement is significantly growing in the Bronx, opening six early childhood education centers. We seek Center Directors for two sites to lead operations, mentor staff, and deliver high-quality early learning experiences so children thrive and achieve lifelong success.

As Center Director , you will manage a Child and Family Center, including staff recruitment and development, promoting a culture of excellence, and delivering culturally responsive child development services. You will oversee program operations, budgets, and partnerships, ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements and contracts, and use data to drive continuous improvement.

During the first two years, this role will evolve as we open these center-based sites. We seek entrepreneurial, hands-on leaders. You must be adaptable to change and remain resourceful under pressure. We seek individuals committed to developing scalable systems. This position offers the opportunity to shape processes, address challenges, and implement our vision. Titles and duties will be finalized once all sites are fully operational.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES :

The Center Director will be responsible for:

Planning:

• Oversee staff schedules, timecards, and leave to ensure effective program coverage.

Program Implementation :

• Approve and oversee daily lesson plans and individualized goals for each child.
• Ensure the implementation and incorporation of early childhood development and the Developmental Continuum, including close child observation and anecdotal record-keeping.
• Maintain 97% enrollment in partnership with Family Services, approving eligibility under ERSEA.
• Help teaching staff develop systems to engage parents in child observation.
• Lead team meetings and participate in case conferences to coordinate services.
• Maintain confidential filing and documentation systems for the service area.

Ongoing Monitoring and Self-Assessment :

• Ensure compliance with Head Start education standards.
• Participate in assessments, programs, and policy reviews as needed.
• Monitor classrooms using reliable observation tools and report findings.

Human Resources and Supervision :

• Provide ongoing feedback aligned with staff development plans and Head Start standards.
• Manage staff coaching, development, and site hiring in collaboration with program leads.

Facilities :

• Ensure facilities and materials are safe, age-appropriate, and in compliance with regulations.

PRE-EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS :

• Clearance through DOI and DOE fingerprint screening, NYS Central Registry, Sex Offender Registry clearance; 3 reference checks; physical examination with updated TB test, varicella, Tdap, MMR (fees may apply)
• Obtain Mandated Reporter training certificate (every 2 years) and comply with the agency’s policy and procedure regarding identification and reporting of child abuse and neglect.
• Obtain First Aid/CPR and Preventive Infectious Diseases certificate within the first year of employment.
• Meet all employee health requirements in Article 47 (DOHMH) and Head Start Performance Standards.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, AND SKILL REQUIREMENTS:

• Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or related field
• Current New York State Birth-Grade 2 certification
• Excellent oral and written skills, and computer literacy in Microsoft Word and Excel
• Strong background in management and program design
• Strong background in the management of early childhood professionals
• Proven commitment to working with diverse communities and populations
• Strong team engagement that includes enthusiasm, vision, creativity, and initiative

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER (EOE)

BENEFITS

Full-time employees receive health, vision, dental, and life insurance, a 401(k) plan, and a generous paid time off policy.

TO APPLY

To apply, email your cover letter and résumé with the subject line “GSS Bronx Center Director” to katherinewdefoyd@gmail.com. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

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