Now Hiring
Lead Center Director in Ayden, NC
Where Leadership Meets Purpose (and Play!)
Care-O-World Early Learning Centers is searching for a mission-driven, relationship-focused leader to step into the Ayden Center Director role. This is more than a management job—it’s your opportunity to lead a talented team, support amazing families, and create joyful learning experiences for children from infancy through school-age.
Why This Role Matters
Our Ayden location has a strong foundation — thanks in large part to the leadership of our outgoing Director, who is being promoted to Director of Operations. Now we’re looking for someone who can carry that momentum forward, blending warmth, accountability, and vision into every classroom and hallway.
You’ll have full support through the transition, plus the partnership of a skilled assistant director and a hands-on leadership team who actually shows up.
We’re Looking for a Leader Who Is:
- Kind – People-first, calm under pressure, and rooted in relationships.
- Smart – Knows how to run a complex center without losing sight of the small moments that matter.
- Playful – Brings joy and creativity to even the busiest days (because we believe learning should be fun).
The Basics (ideal, but not set in stone)
- 4-year degree in Early Childhood or related field
- Level III NC Early Childhood Administration Credential, or the ability to obtain this within 6 months
- Minimum 3 years of leadership experience in a licensed child care setting
- Deep understanding of (or willingness to master) NC licensing, sanitation, and QRIS
- A leadership style that is firm, fair, and genuinely uplifting
What You’ll Love About Care-O-World
- Support from a committed, long-tenured admin team
- Weekly leadership connections through “The Leadership Loop”
- A values-driven culture where we don’t just say “kind, smart, and playful”—we live it
- Regular celebrations, leadership lunches, and a strong professional development plan
- Competitive salary and benefits, with real room to grow. Annual Base Salary: $42,000 - $48,000.
- Bonus and incentive structures can add 5%–25% to your base salary, beginning after 6 months of employment!
✨ How to Apply
1: Check us out at www.careoworld.org . 2. Send your resume and a short note sharing what makes you a strong fit for Ayden’s next chapter. Be bold. Be honest. Bonus points if you use the word playful somewhere in your message.
E-Mail to:
Katie Harrah
Director of People and Purpose
