Child Care Director, Little Lions Child Development Center

Closing Date:

University of Arkansas - Fort Smith

The University of Arkansas - Fort Smith is a dynamic, mid-sized public university that's redefining higher education. We're on a mission to provide transformative, hands-on learning experiences for students of all backgrounds and aspirations. Our multi-faceted approach to education offers a wealth of opportunities, with over 70 academic programs, including certificates, associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees. We're committed to building a diverse community that mirrors Arkansas's rich tapestry, reflecting our dedication to serving the state's varied population while enhancing the quality of our institution.

As an employer, the University of Arkansas offers a vibrant work environment and a workplace culture that promotes a healthy work-life balance. The benefits package includes university contributions to health, dental, life, and disability insurance, tuition waivers for employees and their families, 12 official holidays, immediate leave accrual, and a choice of retirement programs with university contributions ranging from 5 to 10 percent of employee salary.

Fort Smith, Arkansas

Nestled along the Arkansas River, this vibrant city offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the Old West at the Fort Smith National Historic Site, explore the eclectic local art scene, or take a scenic stroll along the picturesque riverfront trails. With a welcoming community, diverse dining options, and a thriving downtown, Fort Smith is the ideal destination for history enthusiasts and those seeking modern amenities.

Thank you for your interest in joining our university. Below you will find details for the position including any supplementary documentation and/or questions you should review before submitting your application. For general application assistance or if you have questions about a job posting, please contact Human Resources at (479) 788-7080.

If you have a disability and need assistance with the hiring process please contact Human Resources at 479-788-7080. Applicants are required to submit a request for each position to which they have applied.

Required Education and/or Work Experience: From AR licensing requirements:

Applicants must be 21 years of age or over and provide documentation of one (1) of the following educational levels:

• Bachelor's Degree or higher Degree in Early Childhood, Child Development, or a related field from a regionally accredited college or university. (Determination of "related field" shall be made by the Division)

• Bachelor's degree in a non-related field from a regionally accredited college or university plus one (1) of the following:

  • Four (4) years of experience in early childhood education

  • Child Development Associate Credential (CDA)

  • Birth - Pre-K Credential

• Associate degree in Early Childhood, Child Development, or a related field

  • Plus six (6) years of experience in Early Childhood Education

Preferred Education and/or Work Experience: Demonstrated evidence of successful leadership in an early childhood education setting.

Summary of Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Oversee licensure and ensure that the LLCDC meets requirements (State of Arkansas).

• Hire, train, and supervise teachers and other staff.

• Ensure training hours are maintained for staff.

• Manage employee schedules and daily labor within the center, ensuring appropriate staff/child ratios are always intact.

• Be a team builder with the ability to resolve conflicts.

• Be highly organized and possess excellent customer service/communication skills.

• Be detail-oriented, obtain and maintain professional development qualifications for staff to meet the requirements of Better Beginnings Level 3.

• Operate the lab school according to state licensing standards.

• Be responsible for administering, planning, managing, and controlling the daily activities of the LLCDC.

• Effectively manage the day-to-day operations to ensure quality throughout the center.

• Ensure a safe environment for the children in our care.

• Oversee, regularly monitor, and maintain accurate records for the access to rooms, including access for staff and families.

• Ensure that the health and nutrition requirements for children are met.

• Document and maintain records of the staff, including fulfillment of required training and certifications.

• Document and maintain records of the families, including communication and reporting.

• Communicate program goals, policies, and procedures to parents.

• Maintain budget for the center: order supplies and materials, collect tuition and fees, accreditation fees.

• Purchase supplies, equipment, food, and other materials necessary for program operations.

• Submit reports as needed and in a timely manner.

• Identify opportunities and take action to maximize savings and efficiencies in business operations.

• Forecast and create enrollment growth plans based on past performance and projected occupancy.

• Be flexible and energetic, with the ability to multi-task.

• Assist teachers with the weekly development and execution of the curriculum and program activities.

• Execute marketing plan (both internal and external) necessary to maintain desired enrollment.

• Responsible for maintaining a positive work atmosphere by acting and communicating in a manner to foster teamwork and by providing leadership to subordinates.

• Requires consistent on-time attendance.

• Other duties as assigned.

All new Directors and Assistant Directors or Site Supervisors shall attend New Directors Orientation, Program Administration Scale (PAS), and Environment Rating Scale (ERS) training (or other approved tools that are considered equivalent) in the states Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS) within six (6) months of employment. This is an orientation class sponsored by the Division. Proof of attendance shall be maintained in the Director's file.

Directors and Assistant Directors or Site Supervisors shall obtain fifteen (25) clock hours in early childhood education each year. Training shall be registered with the Division of Child Care and Early Childhood Education (DCCECE) Professional Development Registry, or Department of Education, or Department of Higher Education approved. Documentation of training shall be maintained and available for review. Obtain and maintain professional development qualifications in order to meet the requirements of Better Beginnings Level 3.

The Director will also:

• Be responsible for administering, planning, managing, and controlling the daily activities of the LLCDC.

• Have computer proficiency including Word and Excel. Having the ability to learn other programs quickly is also required.

• Pass a criminal background check, child maltreatment check, and FBI check.

• Meet the state's licensing requirements for staff.

• Have and maintain current CPR training.

Physical abilities: Must be able to bend, stoop, stand, and lift-up to 25-40 lbs.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: To perform the job successfully, the following competencies are required for the essential functions of this position:

Knowledge of AR Better Beginnings Quality Rating and Improvement System, and the processes for moving towards the highest levels of quality of care.

Ability to connect programs in the College of Health, Education and Human Sciences to positive outcomes for children in the UAFS Little Lions Child Development Center.

Additional Information:

Working Relationships: The UAFS Little Lions Child Development Center Director will be a liaison between the youngest learners and the faculty, staff, students and community served.

List Employees Supervised: The UAFS Little Lions Child Development Center Director will supervise six full-time early childhood educators, plus multiple part-time educators.

This job description is not designed to contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, and/or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with out without notice.

All application materials must be uploaded to the University of Arkansas System Career Sitehttps://uasys.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/UASYS

Please do not send to listed recruitment contact.

This position may be subject to a pre-employment criminal background check, sex offender registry check, financial history background check, and/or drug screening. A criminal conviction or arrest pending adjudication and/or adverse financial history alone shall not disqualify an applicant in the absence of a relationship to the requirements of the position. Background checks and drug screening information will be used in a confidential, non-discriminatory manner consistent with state and federal law.

Persons must have proof of legal authority to work in the United States on the first day of employment.

All application information is subject to public disclosure under the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act.