Program Director - Universal Pre-K & Preschool

YMCA Buffalo Niagara is looking for talented individuals with a passion for the YMCA mission and cause, an understanding of YMCA programs and services, and whose everyday priorities are a reflection of the core YMCA values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.

YMCA Buffalo Niagara is an equal opportunity employer committed to valuing diversity and practicing inclusion.

POSITION SUMMARY:

Manages the Universal Pre-K (UPK) program, the Before and After Preschool program, and day camp at assigned locations. Hires, trains, and supervises the staff team.

GENERAL WORK SCHEDULE:

40 hours per week.  Must be available to work between the hours of 7:00 am – 6:00 pm, Monday – Friday.

BENEFITS:

Free health insurance, employer paid group term life insurance at 1x salary, employer paid long term disability, EAP through Child & Family Services, and various voluntary benefit options. 

Employees are immediately eligible to enroll and contribute to the Y Retirement Fund 403B plan and will receive a 12% employer paid Y Retirement Fund contribution after eligibility requirements are met.

There is a generous paid time off program, which includes personal time off, holidays, and sick leave. 

All employees receive a complimentary YMCA Buffalo Niagara family membership and program discounts.

Other benefits include leadership development opportunities and career advancement.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1.    Ensures programs and services meet community needs to include supervising existing program activities, establishing new program activities, and expanding the program as needed. Assists in the marketing and distribution of program information.

2.    Manages UPK, before and after preschool, and day camp program operations, including developing and monitoring the department budget to meet fiscal objectives; maintains participant records, monitors the effectiveness of and participation in the program; and responds to feedback.

3.    Recruits and hires program staff. Onboards, trains, and develops them for success. Publishes and maintains the staff schedule to ensure all shifts are filled. Reviews and evaluates staff performance. Ensures records of staff certifications and training are current and complete.

4.    Models relationship-building in all interactions; develops and maintains collaborative relationships with staff, participants, school administration, OCFS registrars, and community organizations to maximize impact and drive overall outcomes; maintains regular, clear, and concise communication.

5.    Ensures compliance with federal, state, and local regulations as they relate to the department. Understands and complies with OCFS licensing requirements. Ensures that safety procedures are followed.

6.    Responsible for the cleanliness of the program area, provides adequate supplies, and provides for the upkeep of equipment.

7.    Organizes or participates in Y activities, such as committees, special events, and fundraising.

8.    Serves as a member of the YMCA management team and supports the overall objectives of the YMCA.

9.    Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1.            Bachelor’s degree in related field or equivalent experience.
2.       One to two years of related experience, preferably in a supervisory capacity.
3.        Meets Day Care Center licensing requirements per NYS Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS):  Bachelor’s degree, including or in addition to 12 credits in Early Childhood, Child Development or a related field; one year of full-time teaching experience in a child care center, family or group family day care home or other early childhood program; and one year of experience supervising staff in a child care program or a related field of work; or a New York State Children’s Program Administrator Credential; one year of full-time teaching experience in a child care center, family or group family day care home or other early childhood program; and one year of experience supervising staff in a child care program or a related field of work.
4.           Ability to establish and maintain positive relationships, and to communicate effectively.
5.           Ability to use good judgement and solve complex problems. 
6.   .    Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups of people from all social and economic segments of the community.