Executive Director, Parents of Preschoolers, Inc. (POPI/NIH Bethesda)

Parents of Preschoolers, Inc. (POPI), located on the campus of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), is seeking an experienced and dynamic Executive Director to lead our center. The ideal candidate will oversee all center operations, including staff and family management, and ensure the highest standards of care and education. This is a unique opportunity to shape the strategic direction of our organization while working in a supportive, mission-driven environment.

Job Description

As Executive Director, you will be responsible for:
  • Operational Leadership: Managing the day-to-day operations of the center and ensuring compliance with all licensing and accreditation requirements from the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE), the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), and the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).
  • Strategic Direction: Collaborating with and advising the Board of Directors on policies and long-term strategic planning.
  • Stakeholder Engagement: Building and maintaining strong relationships with NIH agencies and the wider community.
Qualifications
  • A bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field.
  • Five years of experience in early childhood education.
  • Three years of experience in an early childhood administrative role.
  • Proven experience with the NAEYC accreditation process.
We are looking for a candidate who is a positive leader, open to constructive criticism, and respectful of all members of our community.

Compensation & Benefits

The salary for this position ranges from $80,000 to $90,000, depending on experience.

Benefits include:
  • Health & Dental Insurance: Full-time employees (32+ hours/week) and their dependents are eligible for health and dental insurance. POPI covers 60% of health insurance costs. Employees are responsible for the full cost of dental coverage.
  • Retirement: A 401(K) plan is available. After one year of service, POPI will match up to 5% of your annual gross income. Employees must have three years of continuous service to be vested and receive matching contributions if they leave the company.
  • Paid Time Off (PTO): Employees working 20+ hours per week begin accruing PTO immediately. You can use your accrued PTO after a 90-day probationary period.
  • Holidays: Full-time employees receive paid time off for federal holidays.
  • Tuition Discount: A tuition discount is available for up to three children (ages three and up) of full-time employees.
How to Apply

This position is located on the NIH campus, so candidates must be able to pass a security clearance.

NIH has contracted with The Child Care Company to fill this role. All inquiries and applications must be submitted through their firm.

Please email your resume and cover letter to: Syretha.storey@childcarecompany.org.

Do not contact the Child Care Center directly.