Preschool Assistant Director

Mariners Church is a biblically-centered, non-denominational church located in Southern California focused on inspiring people to follow Jesus and fearlessly change the world. Mariners is listed as one of the top 20 largest churches in America by Outreach Magazine. We are a community of ordinary people from all walks of life courageously trusting God to do the extraordinary. Simply put, we trust God to do what we can’t—heal, transform, renew, forgive, provide and sustain. Through the redemption story of each believer, God is glorified, lives are changed and communities are impacted in a significant way. Come and be part of a new season of growth as Mariners Church responds to God’s call in launching new congregations.

The Preschool Assistant Director plays a key role in supporting the leadership, administration, and daily operations of our preschool program. Working in close partnership with the Preschool Director, this position ensures a safe, nurturing, and Christ-centered environment for children, families, and staff.

This full-time, exempt position reports directly to the Preschool Director and typically works Monday through Friday, 40 hours per week.

Responsibilities

Leadership & Program Support

• Collaborate with the Preschool Director to implement the vision, mission, and policies of the program.
• Serve as the acting director in the Director’s absence.
• Assist in the planning and execution of preschool events, as well as collaboration with other ministries for church-wide initiatives.

Operations & Administration

• Oversee registration, enrollment, and conduct tours for prospective families.
• Assist with hiring, onboarding, training, and performance reviews for staff.
• Provide support in financial oversight, including budget planning, expense tracking, and tuition collection.
• Manage student records, accounts payable, and staff communications.
• Supervise office staff and ensure smooth administrative operations.

Compliance & Safety

• Ensure adherence to California state and local licensing regulations and maintain required documentation.
• Oversee and maintain safety procedures for children and staff.
• Coordinate the preschool’s nutrition program, including menu planning and food purchasing.

Marketing & Community Engagement

• Assist in the development of marketing materials to promote enrollment and community visibility.

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or Human Development (emphasis in ECE preferred).

Minimum of:

• 3 college-level units in supervising adults/mentorship.
• 6 units in child care administration.
• 6 units in infant/toddler care.

• Site Supervisor Child Development Permit preferred.
• In-depth knowledge of best practices and research in early childhood education.
• Strong understanding of California licensing regulations and compliance requirements.
• Proven leadership, coaching, and staff development skills.
• Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication abilities.
• Highly organized, adaptable, and effective in a large, dynamic preschool environment.

All Mariners Church Staff:

• Love Jesus and call themselves Christians.
• Embrace a high biblical standard of personal conduct and lifestyle.
• Agree to and adhere to the church's statement of faith and leadership commitment. 
• Attend Mariners Church.

We believe the total combination of your pay, benefits, and opportunities aligned with your calling will ensure that you and your family are provided for. The following items are just a sample of the things we offer for full-time employment:

• Health insurance (medical, dental and vision)
• 403b Retirement Saving Plan
• Paid vacation
• Paid time off to serve
• Discounts at the Mariners Cafe and Bookstore
• Tuition discount for Mariners Church Preschool 
• Opportunity to attend ministry events and conferences
• Working alongside a community of supportive, like-minded believers