Early childhood program leader

Do you love working with young children and thrive in a team-driven environment? Minnetonka Community Education is hiring a Junior Explorers Program Leader to lead our preschool program for children ages 3 to 5, guiding daily activities and mentoring Program Assistants and Program Aides in a safe, engaging environment.

Your Role Will Include:

• Supervise and guide children, manage program spaces, lead activities, and provide direction to Program Assistants and Program Aides.
• Create developmentally appropriate and engaging activities for children.
• Provide a safe, caring, fun environment, including use of the site tracking system and accurate attendance records in Eleyo.
• Support children and ensure safety during programming, both at our sites and on community field trips.
• Establish positive, friendly relationships with parents.
• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism, and attend monthly staff meetings.

Qualifications:

Must meet one of the following:

• Bachelor's degree in a related field (or unrelated field with three months of related experience);
• AA or two years of related college, or equivalent certificate, with six months of related experience;
• An equivalent childcare experience: 1 year full time with Explorers, 2 years at a similar level elsewhere, or 3 years full time in a lesser role elsewhere.

Evidence of successful experience working with young children in a child care setting. Excellent communication, organizational, and customer service skills, with demonstrated ability to work independently and as a team member. Proven record of punctuality, responsibility, and confidentiality. Positive interpersonal skills with coworkers, supervisors, and the general public. Medium Work: Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.

Salary and Benefits:

$22.60 per hour. Medical and dental benefits eligible for full-time positions of 30 hours or more per week. Eligible for a quarterly stipend through the DHS Stabilization Grant (2026 fiscal year).

Location & Shift Times:

Minnetonka Community Education Center (MCEC). Monday through Friday, 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM, 35 hours per week. Start date: as soon as possible for the 2026 to 2027 school year. Open until filled.

If you're passionate about leading a team and making a positive impact in children's lives, we'd love to hear from you!