Program Manager

PROGRAM MANAGER – JOB DESCRIPTION

Overview
The Program Manager supports the daily programming and educational quality of First Friends Child Care Center. This position works closely with the Executive Director to ensure highquality learning environments, strong classroom practices, and smooth program operations.

Primary Responsibilities
• Overseeing curriculum implementation and ensuring alignment with the center’s philosophy and state guidelines
• Conducting regular classroom walk throughs to monitor environment quality
• Maintaining curriculum materials, classroom supplies, and coordinating purchasing needs
• Ensuring lesson plans support all developmental domains and meet best practice standards
• Supporting the Executive Director in developing a standardized curriculum framework using the Brightwheel platform
• Helping create policies and procedures that ensure fidelity to the curriculum and program expectations
• Implementing and monitoring those policies and procedures across classrooms to maintain consistency and quality
• Managing classroom schedules, transitions, and daily flow to maintain ratios and smooth operations
• Supporting substitute planning and classroom coverage when staffing challenges arise
• Monitoring health, safety, and cleanliness practices in all classrooms
• Assisting teachers with behavior support and implementing center wide behavior guidance practices
• Coordinating referrals and communication for children needing developmental or behavioral support
• Serving as a daily point of contact for families regarding programming or classroom questions
• Planning and executing a monthly family engagement activity
• Supporting teachers with parent communication and preparation for conferences
• Providing modeling, hands on assistance, and daily operational guidance to teachers
• Identifying areas for program improvement and collaborating with the Executive Director on enhancements
• Researching and recommending new curriculum materials or enrichment opportunities
• Supporting the coordination of center wide events involving classroom participation

Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related field (required)
• Minimum of 2–3 years experience in early childhood programs
• Experience in leadership, mentoring, or coaching roles preferred
• Knowledge of NAEYC standards and early childhood best practices
• Familiarity with Brightwheel or willingness to learn
• CPR/First Aid certification or willingness to obtain

Professional Competencies
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to build positive relationships with staff, children, and families
• Strong organizational and timemanagement skills
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion
• Problemsolving skills and the ability to remain calm during challenging situations
• Commitment to maintaining professionalism and supporting positive team culture

Physical Requirements
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs
• Ability to sit on the floor, kneel, and bend as needed to interact with children
• Ability to move between classrooms and outdoor spaces

Work Schedule Expectations
• Fulltime position
• May be required to assist with opening or closing responsibilities
• Occasional evenings for family engagement events or staff meetings

Compensation
• Hourly position
• Pay range: $22-$24 per hour, depending on experience

Reporting Structure
• Reports directly to the Executive Director

First Friends is a well-reputed, non-profit early childhood program that primarily services federal employee families in Salt Lake City. Because we believe that investing in our staff is the same as investing in the children under our care, we offer competitive wages and full benefits to both full and part time employees and work one-on-one with staff to ensure they feel supported in the classroom.