Description

University of Kentucky

Equal Employment Opportunity/M/F/disability/protected veteran status.

Posting Details Posting Details Job TitleEarly Childhood Lab DirectorRequisition NumberRE52322Working TitleDepartment Name8G070:Early Childhood, Spec Ed & Counselor EdWork LocationLexington, KYGrade Level45Salary Range$47,278-78,000/yearType of PositionStaffPosition Time Status Full-TimeRequired EducationMAClick here for more information about equivalencies:https://hr.uky.edu/employment/working-uk/equivalenciesRequired Related Experience5 yrsRequired License/Registration/CertificationKentucky Director's Credential for Licensed Child Care CenterPhysical RequirementsLifting children (infants to toddlers) up to 50 lbs and requires coordination.ShiftMonday Friday, 7:00 4:00 40 hours per weekJob SummaryThe Director of the Early Childhood Laboratory (ECL) oversees the strategic, operational, and academic functions of a nationally recognized early childhood education program. This role ensures the delivery of high-quality, programming for children while supporting university research and community engagement. The Director leads a multidisciplinary team, manages financial and administrative operations, and fosters partnerships with local and national organizations.

In addition to program oversight, the Director teaches undergraduate courses in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education (IECE), coordinates research initiatives, and promotes the ECL as a model site for innovation and integrated programming. The ideal candidate will demonstrate leadership, fiscal responsibility, and a commitment to excellence in early childhood education.

Internal Employee Being ConsideredSkills / Knowledge / AbilitiesDoes this position have supervisory responsibilities? YesPreferred Education/ExperienceMasters Degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field and 10 years experienceDeadline to Apply11/23/2025Our University CommunityWe value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.

The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.

Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.

Posting Specific Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

1. * Describe a time when you coordinated hiring for a licensed childcare center. What steps did you take to ensure a smooth onboarding process? What challenges did you encounter in recruiting and retaining high quality teachers and staff?

   (Open Ended Question)

2. * How many years of experience do you have as a director, or serving in an administrative role, of a licensed childcare center?
   • None
   • More than 0, up through 1 year
   • More than 1 year, up through 3 years
   • More than 3 years, up through 5 years
   • More than 5 years
3. * What licensure or certifications do you currently hold related to early childhood education or program administration?

   (Open Ended Question)

4. * Describe your experience managing licensed childcare centers, including budget and staff oversight.

   (Open Ended Question)

5. * Describe your experiences providing professional development to childcare staff or college teaching to university students.

   (Open Ended Question)

6. * Do you have a Kentucky Director's Credential for Licensed Child Care Center?
   • Yes
   • No

Applicant Documents
Required Documents

1. Resume

Optional Documents

1. Cover Letter

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