THE ROLE AND PURPOSE OF THE JOB

Little Hands Childcare, Churchfield is currently under renovation and due to open on a phased basis in 2026. The Childcare Manager will lead the full set-up and operational launch of the new service. This includes completing Tusla registration, recruiting staff, admitting children, preparing the premises for inspection, and establishing all systems, policies, and quality practices.

Once the service opens, the Childcare Manager will oversee its ongoing daily operation, ensuring the highest standards of care, compliance, and early learning.

The role is managed and supported by the CEO, Financial Controller and Head of Childcare Services at Northside Community Enterprises.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

Pre-Opening / Start-Up Responsibilities

• Lead the set-up of the new childcare centre from construction phase to operational readiness.
• Manage the full Tusla Early Years registration process, including policies, documentation, and premises readiness.
• Prepare the environment, equipment, and safety systems in line with regulatory standards.
• Develop all operational policies, procedures, and handbooks.
• Support the creation of budgets, fee structures, and operational plans with the Financial Controller.
• Coordinate project timelines with senior NCE leadership.

Staffing & HR Management

• Plan and manage the recruitment of childcare staff in line with projected enrolment.
• Conduct interviews, carry out vetting, and coordinate onboarding and induction.
• Create rosters to ensure compliance with adult–child ratios and operational hours.
• Supervise and support staff through mentoring, performance management, and continuous professional development.

Child Enrolment & Parent Engagement

• Manage the intake of children, waiting lists, enrolment documentation, and orientation.
• Engage with families through clear communication, open days, and information sessions.
• Support marketing and community outreach to ensure sustainable occupancy.

Operational Management (Post-Opening)

• Oversee daily centre operations, ensuring a safe, nurturing, high-quality environment.
• Ensure full compliance with Tusla, ECCE, NCS, Pobal, DES and all statutory requirements.
• Maintain quality standards based on Aistear, Síolta and best-practice guidelines.
• Manage child protection and safeguarding procedures.
• Facilitating inspections from DES, Tusla, Pobal, and EHO.
• Collaborate with the Financial Controller on budgets, reporting, invoicing, and funding schemes.

Staff management

• Lead, mentor, and support a team of early years educators.
• Oversee staff recruitment, training, and professional development.
• Conduct relative performance management systems, including support, supervision & appraisals. 
• Manage effective staff schedules and lead team meetings.

General Duties

• Maintain accurate records and documentation.
• Attend management and governance meetings as required.
• Represent the service professionally within the community and childcare sector.
• Carry out other duties deemed necessary for the effective operation of the centre.

Person Specification

Essential Qualifications & Experience

• Minimum QQI Level 7 in Early Childhood Care and Education.
• Minimum 3 years’ experience in a supervisory or management role within an early years setting.
• Strong working knowledge of Tusla regulations, Aistear, and Síolta.
• Experience in staff recruitment, leadership, and team management.
• Proven ability to manage administrative and regulatory requirements.
• Excellent communication, organisational, and problem-solving skills.

Desirable Qualifications & Experience

• Experience or knowledge of setting up or opening a new childcare service.
• Experience with ECCE, NCS, PIP, Hive and funding scheme administration.
• Qualification in leadership, management, LINC, or AIM support.
• Experience collaborating with multi-disciplinary teams.

Personal Attributes

• Strong leadership capability with a calm, confident approach.
• Flexible, proactive, and able to work on own initiative.
• Warm and professional communication style with children, families, and staff.
• Commitment to high-quality early childhood education and continuous improvement.

Additional Information

• Appointment is subject to Garda Vetting.
• Candidates must supply suitable references.
• Training requirements may apply before or after commencement.

Terms of Employment: Full-time position - working 39 hours per week.

Benefits:

• Competitive Salary, based on qualification and experience
• Paid Continuous Professional Development (CPD) Opportunities
• Pension Scheme Options
• Employment Assistance Programme
• Employee discounts across our social enterprises
• Annual Christmas Bonus

Closing date and time: 12.00 noon Monday 8^th December, 2025

Email you CV to Karen: [email protected]

• Childcare Service Manager Little Hands Childcare, Churchfield