Founding Montessori Director

Job Title Founding Montessori Director (Infant & Toddler, Ages 0–3)

Location: Jersey City

Position Type: Full-Time

Start Date: Spring 2026

About Us

Evviva is excited to launch a new Montessori Infant & Toddler program (ages 0–3), currently in the state licensing process, dedicated to nurturing young learners in a caring, child-centered environment. Our mission is to make authentic Montessori education accessible and affordable, while remaining deeply rooted in the principles Maria Montessori originally intended—respect for the child, independence, and education as a means for social good.

We are seeking a passionate and visionary Founding Montessori Director to lead this startup and play a meaningful role in shaping both a high-quality learning environment and a strong local community.

Job Overview

The Founding Montessori Director will oversee all aspects of program development and operations, ensure compliance with state licensing and regulatory requirements, lead and support staff, and cultivate an enriching learning environment grounded in Montessori philosophy. This is a key leadership role during the pre-opening and launch phase, with long-term responsibility for the program’s success and growth.

Employment is contingent upon state childcare licensing approval.

Key Responsibilities

Program & Operations

• Lead and manage day-to-day operations of the Infant & Toddler program
• Prepare the program for opening, including licensing readiness and operational setup
• Ensure ongoing compliance with state licensing, health, safety, and regulatory requirements

Educational Leadership

• Develop and implement developmentally appropriate Montessori curriculum and programming
• Uphold Montessori philosophy and best practices throughout the program

Staff Leadership

• Recruit, train, mentor, and support Infant & Toddler Guides and support staff
• Foster a collaborative, professional, and mission-aligned team culture

Family & Community Engagement

• Build strong, trusting relationships with families
• Serve as a visible leader within the local community
• Lead or support creative marketing, enrollment, and outreach initiatives

Qualifications & Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Educational Administration, or a related field (Master’s preferred)
• Montessori certification (AMI, AMS, or equivalent), with Infant & Toddler specialization preferred
• Minimum of 3 years of program leadership experience, ideally in Infant & Toddler settings
• Strong leadership, organizational, and administrative skills
• Knowledge of childcare licensing, health, safety, and legal requirements
• CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)
• Entrepreneurial mindset; startup or school launch experience a plus
• Marketing and community outreach experience desirable

Benefits

Benefits may include:

• Competitive salary based on qualifications and experience
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid Time Off (PTO) and holidays
• Professional development opportunities

Application Process

Interested candidates are encouraged to submit a resume, cover letter, and relevant certifications to evvivamontessori@gmail.com.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $50,022.43 - $60,242.07 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person