Operations Support Specialist – Early Childhood Education (ECE)
This position is based in San Diego with flexibility to travel between centers.
Ignite Curiosity. Grow Potential. Lead with Purpose.
At Learning Jungle, we believe early childhood education is one of the most powerful investments in our future. As a global provider of high-quality educational childcare, we are dedicated to creating nurturing, engaging, and developmentally appropriate environments that support children in becoming confident, curious, and capable learners.
We are currently seeking an experienced and adaptable Operations Support Specialist to join our team in California. The primary objective of this role is to provide support in a Director or Assistant Director capacity across the Region as needed. This individual will work as an interim Director, Assistant Director, or in other support capacities when required, while also supporting the Region with training, teaching, and non-teaching duties in between assignments. The ideal candidate will possess extensive Center Director experience with proven success in delivering results and navigating change. Adaptability, agility, and the ability to build connections and relationships quickly are key qualities for success in this role.
Key Responsibilities:
Interim Center Director/Assistant Director Support
- Provide leadership and management support as an interim Center Director or Assistant Director across multiple sites in the Region as needed.
- Manage day-to-day operations at the center(s), ensuring compliance with California Title 22 regulations and maintaining high standards of education, health, and safety.
- Oversee staff recruitment, onboarding, and training, ensuring the center meets staffing requirements and is compliant with licensing regulations.
- Support the implementation of developmentally appropriate programs that align with Learning Jungle’s Creative Curriculum and California Early Learning and Development System (CA-ELDS).
- Manage classroom quality and support teachers with coaching, observations, and guidance on best practices.
- Build and maintain positive relationships with families and staff, ensuring strong communication and a welcoming environment.
- Ensure the center is compliant with all regulations during interim assignments and assist with corrective action if necessary.
Regional Support
- When not serving in an interim Director or Assistant Director capacity, support the Region by training and mentoring Center Directors to enhance their leadership skills and operational effectiveness.
- Assist in providing additional support to center operations, including teaching and non-teaching duties/roles, to ensure overall program quality.
- Collaborate with the Regional Director to address operational challenges and implement solutions across multiple sites.
- Support the onboarding and professional development of center leadership teams and teaching staff.
Adaptability & Agility
- Adjust quickly to new environments and rapidly acclimate to new teams and centers, ensuring operational continuity and stability.
- Build connections and establish relationships with new staff, families, and leadership teams on day one.
- Demonstrate flexibility and agility in managing unexpected changes or challenges while maintaining a focus on delivering high-quality services.
Qualifications:
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Education: A Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field from an accredited institution.
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Licensure: Valid California Site Supervisor Permit is required due to the nature of the role serving centers with CCTR funding. A Child Development Program Director Permit is preferred, especially for extended interim Director assignments.
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Experience:
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in a licensed early childhood education setting.
- Proven experience as a Center Director or Assistant Director with demonstratedsuccess in operational management and staff leadership.
- Strong ability to navigate and manage change in a fast-paced environment.
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Skills:
- Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
- Exceptional adaptability, agility, and the ability to develop relationships quickly.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
- Experience in training and supporting staff at all levels.
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Certifications: Current CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire).
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Background Checks: Must pass all required California background checks, fingerprinting, TB test, and health screenings.
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Travel: Willingness to travel extensively within San Diego and Sacramento, with occasional trips to Las Vegas, NV.
Preferred Qualifications:
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Experience: Prior experience in providing interim leadership or operational support across multiple sites.
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Skills: Proficiency with administrative tools such as Microsoft Office, email, and childcare management systems.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
- Capable of walking, standing, bending, squatting and kneeling for extended periods.
- Able to move quickly to respond to children's needs and to ensure child safety.
Why Join Learning Jungle?
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A Leadership Role with Purpose: Shape the experience of children, families, and educators across multiple centers.
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Competitive Compensation: Salary and benefits aligned with California early childhood education standards.
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Professional Growth: Opportunities for continued education, career advancement, and leadership development within a respected global early education brand.
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A Supportive Team Environment: Collaborate with a network of professionals committed to delivering excellence in early childhood education.
Are you ready to make an impact as a versatile leader in early childhood education?
Apply today to become a part of the Learning Jungle team and help young children thrive every step of the way.
This job description is not an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position. Learning Jungle is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Learning Jungle is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact the HR Department at HR@learningjungle.com.
