Child and Youth Development Director

The YMCA of Orange County is a leading non-profit organization dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. We are actively seeking highly engaged, intentional, and service-oriented individuals for a full-time Childcare Director role.

This role is an opportunity to directly impact the lives of children and families by fostering genuine connections, practicing exceptional hospitality, and creating a safe, positive, and enriching environment where every interaction is meaningful.

Location: Scholarship Prep 17th YMCA

Work Schedule: Full-Time

Purpose & Impact

  • Empower and Lead: Mentor both children and staff; oversee program operations and staff evaluations to ensure a high-quality, growth-oriented environment.

  • Champion Safety & Excellence: Maintain a clean, secure facility by enforcing Licensing Title 22 regulations and YMCA safety protocols to protect every participant.

  • Cultivate Community: Build intentional, professional relationships with parents, school representatives, and the Parent Advisory Council to foster a welcoming atmosphere.

  • Model Core Values: Lead by example with Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility, using positive reinforcement to guide children’s character development.

  • Community Ambassador: Lead fundraising, manage parent-school relationships, and drive program promotion to visitors.

  • Official Job Description will be provided during the interview.

Minimum Qualifications (Must Meet One Level):

  • Minimum Age: 21+ years old.

  • Experience: Previous staff supervision, 4 year experience working with children, and completion of all requirements for 16-hour Prevention Health Practice required.

  • Education Requirements: 4-year college degree in related filed, 15 college units (3 units in Child Development or 60 training hours in Administration, and 9 units or 180 training hours Recreation, Elementary Education ore related field required.

  • CPR and First Aid Certification (Paid for by the YMCA).

  • Required Documents: Please upload transcripts when applying.

Invested in You: Benefits & Perks

  • FREE YMCA Membership, Classes, and Pool Access.

  • FREE Training & Certifications.

  • Tuition Reimbursement.

  • Program Discounts (up to 100% off childcare).

  • Retirement Fund, Paid Sick Time.

  • Medical/Dental/Vision for Full-Time staff.

Learn more about the YMCA and opportunities at: www.ymcaoc.org/careers

Once a conditional offer is made, candidates will be subject to criminal background check, drug screen, and will be asked to provide criminal history. Criminal history will be analyzed on a case by case basis as it related to the position. YMCA of Orange County participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.