WANTED: Program Director

We are seeking an energetic and dedicated Part-Time After School Program Director to lead and coordinate engaging after-school activities in Vineyard, Utah.

The Program Director will work closely with the founder and school staff on launching this brand new program held at Trailside Elementary in Vineyard, UT and serve as co-founder and board member of the after school nonprofit organization for the duration of employment.

We are looking for someone to build a long term working relationship that desires to grow with the program for several years to come. 

Must have a passion for education, strong leadership and management skills, and experience working with children, parents, other staff members, and ensure that every student benefits from a well-structured and dynamic after-school experience.

The ideal candidate will bring a passion for education, strong leadership skills, and experience working with children and youth. As a vital part of our team, you will oversee program operations, collaborate with staff and families, and ensure that every student benefits from a well-structured and dynamic after-school experience.

• Working hours will be during the after school program at the elementary school throughout the school months, with minimal summer hours needed to prepare for the upcoming year. 

• Part-time position options: 
  • Option 1: Approximately 20 hours per week (Monday–Friday 1:30 - 5:30pm).
  • Option 2: Approximately 12 hours per week (M,W,F or T, TH 1:30 - 5:30pm) 

*If the candidate hired chooses Option 2, we will hire another candidate as the director designee that works in conjunction with the program director on the other days of the week. Both roles will be responsible for working together to cover 20 hours a week. 

Because this is a startup launch position, initial compensation and duties will begin as program enrollments are secured. The program director will receive increasing pay as additional classes and funding streams develop. Early-stage contributions will be fairly recognized through performance bonuses, upon program success. Pay will be hourly, and competitive based on local rates that match the role, experience, and qualification level of the candidate.

This individual will take a leadership role in establishing, staffing, and managing the facility while ensuring we remain in full compliance with Utah Child Care Licensing requirements for school-age programs.

This is a hands-on leadership position ideal for someone who thrives in a startup environment, enjoys building programs from the ground up, and wants a long-term leadership opportunity with growth potential.

• Plan, organize, and oversee daily after-school activities that promote learning, creativity, and social development.
• Oversee daily operations of the afterschool program and ensure compliance with Utah Child Care Licensing standards.
• Serve as the designated director on the site’s license and liaison with the Utah Office of Child Care Licensing.
• Train and supervise afterschool instructors, volunteers, and student assistants to ensure smooth operations and adherence to safety protocols.
• Monitor student behavior to maintain a positive, respectful environment conducive to learning and fun.
• Manage program logistics including attendance records, supplies inventory, and compliance with safety regulations.
• Manage student registration, family communication, and parent inquiries.
• Coordinate with the school principal and staff to maintain a positive and professional partnership.
• Maintain effective communication with the nonprofit’s board, contributing as a sitting board member during active employment.
• Ensure all staff adhere to safety, behavioral, and quality standards.
• Collaborate with community partners, schools, and local organizations to enhance program offerings and resources.

• Higher education teaching experience or background in education administration is highly desirable
• Educational credentials required include at least one of the following: 
  • A bachelor's or higher degree with at least 60 clock hours of coursework in child development, social and emotional development, and the childcare environment;
  • At least 12 college credit hours of child development courses;
  • A currently valid national certification such as Certified Childcare Professional (CCP) or Child Development Associate (CDA);
  • At least an associate degree in early childhood development or a related field;
  • A National Administrator Credential (NAC) plus at least 60 clock hours of approved coursework or equivalent training.
• Proven experience working with students in educational or youth development settings.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to develop programs, manage and motivate staff, and engage children effectively.
• Excellent communication skills for interacting with students, parents, staff, and community partners.
• Prior university experience or familiarity with educational institutions is a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to organize activities efficiently while maintaining safety standards.
• Passion for fostering positive youth development through structured programs.
• Reliable, professional, creative, and adaptable.
• Comfortable working in a startup context and collaboratively shaping an evolving organization.
• The director must be at least 21 years old and pass a Utah Child Care Licensing (CCL) background check.
• They must complete new director training offered by the Department of Health and Human Services within 60 working days of starting the position and complete at least 10 hours of childcare training annually.

• Creative
• Has a teachable skill
• Positive attitude with a growth mindset.
• Adaptable and receptive to feedback.
• Collaborative

This is more than a job: It is a unique chance to do meaningful work and make a profound difference in the lives of children and families. You will be the driving force behind a program that gives parents peace of mind and children a place to move, connect, learn, and grow in a safe and inspiring setting. Your leadership will shape this much needed community resource that will genuinely improve family well-being and childhood experiences. By investing your talents here, you will have a sizable impact and be recognized by the greater community at large. 

Join is in this unique opportunity to co-found a mission-driven educational program and play a defining role in shaping its culture, systems, and long-term leadership. The right candidate will grow alongside the program into a sustainable and rewarding leadership career.

It is of upmost importance we find the right fit. As soon as we do so, we will get right to work and hope to launch our first couple classes by March 2026 to finish out the 2025-2026 school year and get some initial experience behind us. However, we will prioritize finding the right long term fit and are willing to wait if needed to secure the right candidate. We will ask that you work a minimal number of hours before the program begins to complete training and onboarding and help us secure state licensing via your credentials. 

To apply, please fill out this form and upload your resume with the most recent and relevant experience. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.