This is a remote position.
Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA)
is the only national organization that supports every part of the child care system. In partnership with an on-the-ground network of Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) organizations, we work in states and communities to advance high-quality, affordable child care—transforming a patchwork of resources into a system that works for everyone. Together, we make child care strong—and that makes everyone stronger. CCAoA is committed to recruiting and retaining a dynamic workforce to help build a child care system that serves all children and families. Join us in ensuring that every family has access to high-quality, affordable child care.
Why You'll Love Working with Us:
At Child Care Aware of America, we believe that a happy, healthy team is the foundation of our success. That's why we offer an exceptional benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and work-life balance:
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Comprehensive Health Coverage:
We provide top-tier medical, dental, and vision insurance to keep you and your family healthy and thriving. Flexible Spending Account options for Health and Dependent Care too!
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Generous Paid Time Off:
Enjoy ample vacation days, sick days, paid holidays, school events leave and personal leave to recharge and pursue your passions.
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Flexible Work Arrangements:
Whether the position is remote or hybrid, we accommodate your needs to help you achieve a harmonious work-life balance.
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Retirement Plans:
Plan for your future with our competitive 403b match program and retirement planning resources.
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Child Care Stipend:
A monthly subsidy to help cover the cost of child care - including camps and before/after school care.
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Community:
Our staff regularly plan engaging events to ensure that teams feel connected despite a virtual environment.
Summary of Position:
The
State Child Care Policy Director
leads the strategic research, analysis and development of child care and early learning policies with a focus on the child care workforce. This person will drive systemic improvements in child care access, affordability, and quality across the states. The Director will serve as the primary technical expert on state and federal funding streams, including the Child Care and Development Block Grant, state Pre-K, Head Start and related programs.
Core Responsibilities:
Policy Analysis & Development
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Evaluate Legislation: Monitor and analyze state and federal statutes, rules, and funding opportunities impacting early childhood systems.
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Draft Deliverables: Write comprehensive policy briefs, model legislation, testimony, regulatory comments, and evidence-based reports.
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Formulate Frameworks: Design scalable policy options based on data and research that address workforce challenges, financing and governance structures, potential state and local initiatives and licensing regulations.
Strategic Advocacy & Coalition Leadership
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Build Alliances:
Convene and facilitate statewide coalitions, ensuring representation from diverse communities and child care providers.
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Support Decision-Makers:
Act as the primary organizational liaison to state legislators, agency executives, and legislative committees.
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Public Representation:
Serve as the public spokesperson at state events, legislative hearings, media events, and policy forums.
Operational & Financial Management
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Fiscal Oversight:
Analyze federal and state child care budgets and develop policy briefs that guide states in developing sustainable public investments in child care.
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Team Leadership:
Supervise policy analysts, researchers, and program consultants, promoting a culture of cross-sector collaboration.
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Partnership Oversight:
Oversee specific partnerships such as the National Child Development Associate Project, the Early Care and Business Advisory Council and other cross sector initiatives.
Required Qualifications:
Education & Experience
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Advanced Degree:
Master’s degree in Public Policy, Public Administration, Early Childhood Education, or a related field preferred.
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Professional Longevity:
Minimum of 8-10 years of progressive experience in public policy, government relations, or systemic advocacy with preference given to candidates with state level government experience.
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Subject Expertise:
Deep, verifiable knowledge of state child care licensing, subsidy programs, and federal early childhood funding mechanisms.
Essential Skills
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Communication:
Ability to translate complex quantitative data and statutory language into accessible information for varied audiences.
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Public Speaking:
Ability to speak publicly to a variety of audiences, including state level policymakers, business leaders and the early childhood community.
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Political Acumen:
Proven track record navigating state legislative processes and building nonpartisan, strategic relationships.
Salary Information:
The salary range reflected in this job posting is the hiring range for this position within the Washington DC Metropolitan area. Please note that a geographic differential will be applied to the salary for candidates hired from regions with a lower cost of living. This adjustment ensures competitive and equitable compensation based on location.
Notice:
Child Care Aware of America works in partnership with Talentuition & Infiniti HR throughout the hiring process. Candidates may receive outreach from representatives at Talentuition on behalf of Child Care Aware of America concerning interview scheduling, resume inquiries, and any further information necessary to begin the interview process.
