St. John’s Lutheran Church is seeking a passionate and experienced leader to serve as Director of our Early Childhood Education Center (ECEC). This full-time position offers the opportunity to lead a vibrant, Christ-centered program serving young children and their families in a warm, community-focused environment.
Our ECEC is a close-knit program of approximately 50 students and 14 dedicated staff members, where relationships, faith, and high-quality early education are at the heart of everything we do. We currently use the Creative Curriculum which is an early childhood education curriculum that builds children's confidence, creativity, and critical thinking skills through hands-on, project-based investigations. In addition, we use the Little Lamb Religious Education series for educational materials designed to teach children about faith, character, and true confidence.
The Director provides overall leadership for the program, ensuring excellence in early childhood education while fostering a nurturing, faith-based environment for children, families, and staff. The Director also guides the staff through Conscious Discipline practices which is a brain-based, adult-first approach that helps schools and organizations build emotionally safe, regulated environments where adults and children can learn, lead, and thrive.
Position Overview
The Director is responsible for the comprehensive planning, administration, and daily operation of the ECEC. This includes leadership in program development, staff supervision, financial management, and community engagement, all grounded in the mission and values of St. John’s Lutheran Church.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Program Leadership
Lead the development and implementation of a high-quality, Christ-centered early childhood program
Ensure curriculum aligns with best practices and supports the growth and development of each child
Guide strategic planning, enrollment, and continuous program improvement
Staff Leadership & Development
Supervise, support, and mentor a team of educators and staff
Foster a collaborative, positive, and mission-driven work environment
Oversee hiring, onboarding, evaluation, and professional development
Operations & Compliance
Oversee daily operations, including scheduling, staffing, and facility use
Ensure full compliance with all licensing and regulatory requirements
Maintain accurate records and uphold health and safety standards
Financial & Administrative Oversight
Partner with church leadership to develop and manage the program budget
Oversee tuition, purchasing, and financial processes
Monitor financial performance and support long-term sustainability
Community & Church Engagement
Build strong relationships with families, staff, and church leadership
Serve as a bridge between the ECEC and the broader church community
Support communication efforts, including newsletters and digital platforms
QUALIFICATIONS:
Required
Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field (e.g., Elementary Education or Nursing, Recreation, or Business Administration with additional education focus)
Minimum of 10 years of experience in education
Including at least 3 years in a lead teaching or supervisory role and at least 6 months in a managerial capacity
Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills
Ability to build strong relationships within a team-based ministry setting
Preferred
Master’s degree in a related field
Faith & Community Expectations
Active, practicing Christian
Member in good standing of a Christian congregation
Demonstrates a commitment to Christian education and spiritual leadership
Models a warm, nurturing, and Christ-like presence
Additional Requirements
Employment is contingent upon completion of background checks, health screenings, and required certifications, including CPR/First Aid and state-mandated training.
Note
This description reflects the general responsibilities of the role and may be adjusted as needed to support the mission and operations of St. John’s Lutheran Church.
COMPENSATION:
Salary range: $70,000-90,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
JOIN OUR COMMUNITY:
This is a unique opportunity to lead a thriving early childhood program where faith, learning, and community come together. At St. John’s Lutheran Church, you will find a supportive environment, meaningful relationships, and the chance to make a lasting impact on children and families.
This is an in-person position based in a professional early childhood setting within a church environment. The Director works closely with children, families, staff, and church leadership to create a welcoming, safe, and mission-driven community.
APPLY NOW!
Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your experience and interest in the role to our HR coordinator, Jennifer Smith, at finance@sjlc.com by April 26, 2026.
Additionally, we will need 3 references and an unofficial copy of transcripts to verify education before job offers will be sent.