Child Care Initiatives Coordinator

Job Description

Position Summary

The Child Care Initiatives Coordinator supports and advances countywide child care efforts by managing an existing child care assistance program and helping implement emerging community early childhood initiatives. This role blends direct program coordination (approximately 50%) with project management, stakeholder engagement, and systems-building work to strengthen access to high-quality, affordable childcare for families and providers. This position is ideal for an organized, mission-driven professional early in their career with an interest in childcare and early childhood systems.

Primary Responsibilities – Program Coordination (Approx. 50%)

• Manage eligibility, enrollment, and ongoing participation for families, child care providers, and employers participating in the Child Care Works program.

• Serve as a liaison between families, providers, employers, and program partners.

• Assist families in navigating child care subsidy and related programs.

• Maintain accurate records in compliance with grant and data privacy requirements.

• Provide high-quality customer service across all communication channels.

• Develop and maintain strong partnerships with child care providers and community agencies.

• Track data, assist with reporting, and support grant compliance.

Primary Responsibilities – Child Care Initiatives & Project Management (Approx. 50%)

• Support planning and implementation of a community Early Childhood Education (ECE) Hub.

• Coordinate timelines, tasks, and deliverables across multiple partners.

• Assist with development of resources for families and providers.

• Support the development and execution of a long-term child care advocacy strategy.

• Track policy developments and emerging funding opportunities.

• Help organize community meetings, convenings, and work groups related to child care initiatives.

• Provide project management support for emerging early childhood initiatives.

Other Responsibilities

• Work collaboratively with colleagues and stakeholders to advance the mission and strategic objectives of the organization.

• Assist with fundraising and/or community impact events, which may fall outside standard business hours.

• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications & Skills

• Associate or bachelor's degree in early childhood education, human services, nonprofit management, or related field (or equivalent experience).

• 0–3 years of experience in early childhood, social services, nonprofit programs, or project coordination.

• Strong organizational, time management, and project coordination skills.

• Knowledge of or interest in the child care system.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office.

• Cultural competence and commitment to equity.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Compensation & Structure

• Full-time, non-exempt position.

• Reports to President & CEO

• Grant-funded position with responsibilities that may evolve over time.

• Estimated salary range: $20 - $25 per hour, commensurate with experience, with growth potential as initiatives expand.

Location

Columbia, Missouri (on-site)

Job Type

Full Time

Reports To

CEO & President

About Us

Heart of Missouri United Way’s mission is to positively impact lives by empowering people and organizations through strategic resource investments. We envision a future where every person in our community thrives – where health, happiness, and opportunity are not privileges. In this future, our work is no longer needed, because equity, compassion, and well-being have become the foundation of daily life.

After 80 years of service, we are embracing a transformational moment—shifting from transactional giving to cultivating mission-driven community investment.…