Nature-Based Childcare Director

Company: YMCA
Location: Damariscotta
Posted on: July 10, 2025

Job Description:

If you love working with kids and believe the best learning happens outside, we’ve got an exciting opportunity waiting. Job Description The Central Lincoln County YMCA is seeking a dynamic and experienced Nature-Based Childcare Director to lead our early childhood education program in Damariscotta, Maine. This full-time leadership role is responsible for overseeing the daily operations, staff supervision, curriculum development, and licensing compliance of our childcare center, with a special focus on implementing and growing a nature-based learning model. The ideal candidate will bring strong leadership skills, a passion for outdoor education, and a commitment to creating a safe, enriching environment where children thrive. This position works closely with senior leadership to ensure program excellence, financial sustainability, and community engagement. Qualifications Essential Experience and Skill Requirements: 5-7 years of experience in a related field. CPR and First Aid certification required within 60 days of hire. Strong leadership skills. Team player, with superb interpersonal skills. An ability to partner with co-workers and work with the public in a positive and friendly manner and resolve conflicts as needed. Self-starter with the ability to multi-task, lead others, work independently, and adapt to changing circumstances in a fast-paced environment. General computer skills with the ability to effectively learn and use new software. Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record with access to personal vehicle preferred. MRTQ Certifications within 30 days of hire. Essential Education Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in education or the equivalent in education and closely related work experience. Essential Functions Collaborates with the Director of Operations and CEO to promote healthy living, social responsibility, and youth development. Serves as a role model for staff, participants, and the community. Actively participates in YMCAs strategic plan development and execution with CEO, Director of Operations, and other directors. Uses strategic plan as a tool to lead and recruit staff and volunteers in executing campaigns, programs, and/or curriculum for the advancement of the YMCA while ensuring safety, licensing standards, and the YMCAs reputation while providing the highest level of customer service. Serves on committees and task forces. Adheres to all policies and standards. Works with the CEO, Director of Operations, and Finance department to develop and manage a responsible budget and provide monthly feedback for any material variances. Manages grants and deliverables. Develops program performance metrics and reports to track progress towards financial and non-financial goals and identify opportunities. Designs and implements purchasing, inventory, marketing, staff training, curriculum, scheduling and communication processes, and documented procedures for department in accordance with standards and licensing requirements. Monitors staff schedules, manages substitutes, and addresses staff shortages to ensure appropriate classroom coverage. Sets competitive tuition rates that reflect the quality of care and meet financial goals. Monitor weekly tuition payments, ensuring timely payments. Maintain up-to-date tuition records, offering scholarships when applicable. Oversees implementation of DHHS Child Care licensing rules and Maine Roads to Quality (MRTQ) facility ratings. Participates in YMCA fundraising efforts, including the annual fundraisers to support mission-based programs and applies for grant opportunities. Organizes family and community outreach events. Regularly performs safety checks of their department spaces and is prepared to address emergencies at all times. Recruits, hires, trains, develops, schedules, and directs personnel and volunteers as needed. Provides continuous coaching through observations and feedback to support staff growth and ensure they meet program standards. Organizes professional development opportunities, including workshops on child development, behavior management, and safety. Mentors staff and provides support for lesson planning and classroom management strategies. Builds effective, authentic relationships with staff, volunteers, participants, and community partners and connects participants to the YMCA. Addresses parent concerns and conflicts as they arise. Conducts regular safety checks on playground equipment and other outdoor facilities to ensure equipment is in good condition and free from harmful substances. Regularly assesses facility needs, and partners with facilities team to ensure timely repairs or upgrades to maintain an environment conducive to learning and child development. Oversees cleaning and maintenance schedules, ensuring staff follow health and cleanliness protocols. Develops and regularly update emergency procedures, including evacuation plans and fire drills. Ensures all staff are trained and familiar with their roles during an emergency. Keep first-aid kits and emergency supplies fully stocked. As a Mandated Reporter, recognizes signs of abuse or neglect and reports to supervisor and the appropriate authorities. Monitors children for signs of illness and document as per policy. Oversees the department’s administrative tasks including processing registrations, collections, and optimizing program capacity. Required Certifications CPR and First Aid certification required within 60 days of hire. MRTQ Certifications within 30 days of hire.

Keywords: YMCA, New England , Nature-Based Childcare Director, Education / Teaching , Damariscotta, Northeast