Assistant Director, The Piper Center

A humble college founded before Texas was a state, Baylor now stands as one of the premier institutions of higher education in the world. Baylor has continued to invest in research and doctoral education, both solidifying and elevating its unique status as a preeminent Christian research university. Baylor is among 187 R1 institutions, just 52 of which are private universities. 

Since 2011, Baylor has been named as one of the nation’s “Great Colleges to Work For”. Great Colleges to Work For® is one of the country’s largest and most respected workplace recognition programs. Each year, Great Colleges recognizes the colleges and universities that get top employee ratings regarding workplace practices and policies across 10 areas. This recognition is based on faculty and staff responses to a related annual survey. The survey, conducted by ModernThink, is a way for colleges and universities to gain a deeper understanding of how their employees experience and view various aspects of the institution. This continued recognition further affirms Baylor as a rewarding place to build a career.

What We're Looking For

Baylor University is seeking an Assistant Director for the Piper Center. The Piper Center Assistant Director is a full-time, 12-month exempt position within the Department of Human Sciences and Design (HSD) in Robbins College of Health and Human Sciences (RCHHS) and reports directly to the Piper Center Director. The position assists in the daily management of the child development center, ensuring that the program provides a model of excellence in the early education and care of young children, as well as support for their families. The position also supports the Center’s role as a laboratory for university faculty and students to study the growth and development of young children and their families, including coordinating Child and Family Study (CFS) student laboratory experiences.

A bachelor's degree, three years of experience, and an active Christian faith are required. A master's degree and five years of relevant work experience are preferred.  

The successful candidate will also have the following:

• Ability to compose effective written and verbal correspondence
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment
• Experience mediating conflict effectively
• Flexibility and skill in prioritization of tasks and time management
• Basic math skills
• Respect for unique needs of children, families, and college students
• Comprehension of developmentally appropriate practices and classroom management techniques
• Willingness to continue professional development both within and outside of scheduled work hours
• Knowledge of Texas Minimum Standards, NAEYC accreditation guidelines, Conscious Discipline and the Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education preferred
   

The successful candidate must pass a criminal background check and TB test prior to start date. First Aid and CPR are required but can be completed after the offer of employment if not already certified. 

Applicants must currently be authorized to work in the United States on a Full-Time basis. 

What You Will Do

• Assist in the direction of the day-to-day operations of the child development center; taking the lead when necessary
• Assist the Director in the development and implementation of policies and procedures, ensuring that state licensing standards and the requirements of accrediting bodies are maintained
• Monitor activities assigned to Piper staff members
• Select, train, make assignments, supervise, and evaluate work study students
• Assist the Director with projects and initiatives
• Provide a model of excellent teacher interactions with children and parents that reflects the philosophy and goals of the center
• Provide leadership for classroom environment design, guidance, and curriculum
• Recruit, train, and re-train Piper employees
• Oversee Program Coordinator’s purchase and organization of supplies
• Oversee facility maintenance to ensure the health and safety of children and the efficient functioning of equipment
• Arrange for the staffing schedule of each classroom, assigning substitute teachers as needed and working as a substitute teacher when necessary; support teachers and children as needed in the indoor and outdoor educational spaces
• Respond promptly and effectively to emergencies
• Act in a moral and ethical manner to reflect the purpose of Baylor University and the Piper Center
• Perform all other duties as assigned to support Baylor’s mission
• Comply with University policies, NAEYC regulations, and Texas Minimum Standards
• Complete a minimum of 36 hours of professional development annually
• Maintain regular and punctual attendance
• Work On-Site or Remotely as assigned by supervisor
• Provide support and guidance to practicum students, laboratory students, observers and interns, including orientation and record-keeping
• Coordinate CFS student laboratory, observation, practicum, and related learning experiences conducted through the Piper Center
• Manage student scheduling, including initial placements, schedule changes, same-day absences, and coordination with CFS faculty and Piper Center personnel
• Coordinate student communications, orientation, required paperwork, background checks, and other participation requirements
• Maintain student records, including background-check clearance, participation, and laboratory hours
• Serve as the primary point of coordination among CFS faculty, students, and Piper Center personnel, addressing issues and supporting effective laboratory operations
• Perform all other duties as assigned to support Baylor’s mission
• Ability to comply with University policies
• Maintain regular and punctual attendance

What You Can Expect

As part of the Baylor family, eligible employees receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, generous time off, tuition remission, and outstanding automatic retirement contributions. Baylor has a comprehensive benefits plan that supports you and your family’s wellbeing and allows you to be a part of the life of a vibrant and active college campus.  To learn more, go to Baylor Benefits & Advantages.

Explore & Engage

Learn more about Baylor and our strategic vision, Baylor in Deeds.  Also, explore our great hometown of Waco and the many opportunities to engage locally.  If you are new to Central Texas, This is Waco!