Executive Director

At Rising Star Preschool, we are seeking an accomplished Executive Director to serve as the senior administrative leader of our organization in San Diego, CA. This is a career‑defining opportunity for a seasoned early childhood or nonprofit professional who is ready to lead with integrity, vision, and operational excellence.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:

• $31 an hour
• Paid time off (PTO)
• Employee assistance program
• Education assistance
• Growth opportunities
• Mentor/Apprentice program
• Flexible schedule

DELVE DEEPER INTO THIS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ROLE:

Each day as an Executive Director, you steward the preschool's overall management, compliance, financial health, and strategic direction. You review key metrics, align with administrative leadership and Site Supervisors, and ensure we meet or exceed CCL, Title 22, and applicable Title 5 requirements while sustaining a safe, nurturing, high-quality learning environment. You prepare and monitor budgets, anticipate risks, and collaborate closely with the Board of Directors on organizational priorities. You are not required to serve as the Site Supervisor, yet you maintain a working knowledge of daily operations so that quality, safety, and compliance are consistently embedded.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in early childhood education, business administration, nonprofit management, or a related field
• 5+ years of leadership experience in early childhood education, childcare administration, nonprofit management, or a related field
• Experience with California Community Care Licensing (CCL) and childcare regulatory compliance
• Financial management and staff leadership experience
• Strong understanding of Title 22 regulations
• Excellent written, verbal, and organizational skills

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's degree
• Experience leading a licensed preschool or early learning organization in California
• Experience working with Boards of Directors
• Change-management or program stabilization experience
• Familiarity with CACFP, CCTR, CSPP, or other subsidized childcare programs
• Knowledge of Title 5 regulations

This in-office position is full-time, Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–4:00 PM.

APPLY WITH PURPOSE:

As a nonprofit serving San Diego's underserved communities, our mission goes beyond providing safe, nurturing care and quality early education for children ages 0-5-we also connect families with vital social services, mental health support, and job training opportunities in early childhood education. Our team is empowered, collaborative, and united by a passion for making a real difference in the lives of children and families. Here, your voice matters, and your professional growth is a top priority! We offer ongoing training and enrichment, helping you earn the credentials you need to advance your career. If you're looking for a supportive, team-oriented workplace where you can have fun, grow, and genuinely impact your community, join us!

Our initial application is quick and mobile-optimized. Take the next step with us today!

Must have the ability to pass a background check.