Education and Childcare Administrators, Preschool and Daycare
Education and childcare administrators plan and oversee the daily operations of preschools, daycare centers, and before- or after-school programs. They manage staff, budgets, curriculum decisions, and parent communications. Most work in dedicated childcare facilities, schools, or community centers.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against education and childcare administrators, preschool and daycare and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
Administrators spend time reviewing enrollment records, supervising teaching staff, and handling parent inquiries. They may observe classroom activities to ensure quality standards, attend staff meetings to discuss program updates, and manage scheduling and payroll. Budget planning and compliance with licensing regulations occupy regular portions of their week, alongside communication with families about their children's progress and program policies.
Who this work suits
Holland code SEC. Social work is helping, teaching and working closely with people. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
People drawn to this role typically enjoy managing teams and building organizations while staying connected to children's development and wellbeing. If you're energized by solving operational challenges, mentoring staff, and advancing a program's mission, this work aligns with your strengths.
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience).
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York | $73,190 | $96,810 | $103,570 | 3,950 |
| New Jersey | $59,800 | $78,770 | $104,570 | 2,900 |
| District of Columbia | $56,020 | $77,850 | $104,390 | 410 |
| Alaska | $66,610 | $75,540 | $93,350 | 60 |
| Washington | $54,530 | $70,470 | $87,560 | 1,560 |
| Massachusetts | $57,090 | $70,320 | $79,490 | 2,260 |
| California | $54,020 | $67,100 | $80,640 | 9,810 |
| Hawaii | $58,240 | $65,080 | $76,420 | 260 |
| Colorado | $56,030 | $64,620 | $77,210 | 1,150 |
| South Dakota | $52,520 | $63,240 | $66,000 | 150 |
| Vermont | $58,020 | $63,220 | $79,490 | 190 |
| Maryland | $52,030 | $62,520 | $75,750 | 1,270 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
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Four short assessments and your background, scored against education and childcare administrators, preschool and daycare and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 11-9031.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.