About Us

The Umbrella Tree Child Development Center is a nature-based, Reggio Emilia-inspired early childhood program serving infants, toddlers, and preschoolers in the heart of Long Beach. We are committed to providing a nurturing, inclusive environment that encourages exploration, creativity, independence, and meaningful learning experiences. Rooted in community, we believe in making high quality early childhood education accessible to families from all backgrounds.

We are seeking an experienced, organized, and passionate Child Development Center Director to oversee daily operations, lead our teaching team, and support the continued growth and success of our program.

Key Responsibilities

Oversee daily center operations, including staff scheduling, classroom coverage, and maintaining appropriate teacher-to-child ratios.
Ensure compliance with California Title 22 regulations and Community Care Licensing requirements.
Supervise, mentor, and support teaching staff through coaching, professional development, and performance evaluations.
Collaborate with the Curriculum Coordinator to maintain high-quality, developmentally appropriate classroom environments.
Manage enrollment inquiries, family tours, registration, and new family onboarding.
Maintain positive, professional relationships with families and address concerns promptly and effectively.
Oversee staff hiring, onboarding, training, and personnel documentation.
Support teachers in implementing inclusive practices and developmentally appropriate behavior guidance.
Maintain accurate records, ensure program safety, and oversee licensing documentation.
Collaborate with ownership to strengthen program quality, staff retention, and enrollment growth.

Required Qualifications

Must meet California Title 22 Child Care Center Director qualification requirements, including applicable infant care requirements.
Previous supervisory or administrative experience in a licensed early childhood education setting.
Strong knowledge of California childcare licensing regulations.
Excellent leadership, communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to manage multiple priorities, make independent decisions, and effectively support staff.
Must meet all applicable background clearance and employment requirements.

Preferred Qualifications

Previous experience as a Center Director, Assistant Director, Site Supervisor, or similar leadership position.
Familiarity with nature-based play, Reggio Emilia-inspired practices, or emergent curriculum.
Experience supporting inclusive classrooms and children with diverse developmental needs.
Experience working with subsidized childcare programs and navigating subsidy requirements.
Experience with Brightwheel or similar childcare management platforms.

Ideal Candidate

Our ideal candidate is a confident, compassionate, and dependable leader who takes initiative and leads by example. They are comfortable balancing administrative responsibilities with hands-on classroom support and are committed to creating a positive environment for children, families, and educators.

We are looking for someone who values teamwork, communicates effectively, and brings a thoughtful, solution-oriented approach to leadership.

Schedule & Availability

This is a full-time, on-site leadership position. We are actively interviewing and welcome candidates who are available to begin as soon as possible.

How to Apply

Please submit your resume outlining your early childhood education experience, leadership background, and relevant qualifications.

Qualified candidates interested in expedited consideration are encouraged to email their resume directly to contact@theumbrellatree.org or bharvey@theumbrellatree.org

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