Overview
Seeds of Wonder is a community-minded, nature-based Montessori preschool located in the Kittery Community Center. Our mission is to nurture each child’s sense of wonder, curiosity, and connection to the natural world through a collaborative, child-centered approach.
We are seeking a highly organized, warm, and dependable Operations Manager to oversee daily childcare operations, support teaching staff, and help maintain a safe, engaging, and enriching environment for children.
This role works closely with the Executive Director, who leads curriculum, enrollment, and community engagement.
Key Responsibilities
Operations & Program Management
Oversee daily childcare operations and ensure compliance with all Maine licensing regulations
Maintain student records and program documentation
Coordinate staff schedules and arrange substitute coverage as needed
Support hiring, onboarding, training, and supervision of teaching staff
Serve as primary contact for licensing inspections and regulatory visits
Staff Support & Leadership
Foster a positive, collaborative, and professional work environment
Provide ongoing support and guidance to teaching staff
Promote high standards of childcare and education
Health, Safety & Facilities
Ensure a clean, safe, and hazard-free environment for children and staff
Implement health and safety protocols, including emergency procedures, fire drills, and medication management
Maintain compliance with CDC and state guidelines
Coordinate with Kittery Community Center staff and external vendors to support facility needs
Qualifications
Associate or Bachelor’s degree (or at least 12 credits) in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field
Strong understanding of child development and best practices in early childhood education
Knowledge of (or willingness to learn) Maine childcare licensing regulations
Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
Ability to manage multiple priorities with strong attention to detail
Leadership skills including problem-solving, adaptability, and collaboration
Preferred:
Experience in Montessori and/or nature-based (forest school) education
Previous teaching or childcare leadership experience
What We’re Looking For
A candidate who demonstrates strong leadership and organizational skills
A genuine passion for early childhood education
The ability to build positive relationships with staff, families, and the community
A proactive, self-directed approach to work
Compensation & Benefits
Salary: $50,000–$56,000 annually (based on experience)
Monthly health insurance stipend
Paid time off (PTO) and paid school vacation weeks
Professional development support
401(k) with employer matching
Tuition discount for enrolled staff children
Eligibility for Maine Roads to Quality bonuses
To apply for this job email your details to alison@seedsofwonder.org
About Seeds of Wonder
Established in 2021 as a partnership between Brixham Montessori Friends School and White Pine Programs in York, ME, Seeds of Wonder’s mission is to nurture each child’s sense of wonder, curiosity, and kinship with the natural world through a collaborative approach to nature-based Montessori education. Children ages 18 months - 5 years spend equal time indoors and outside year-round. Located within the Kittery Community Center, our program uses the Rogers Park Conservation Area as the setting for our outdoor classrooms.
