Quality childcare is one of the most powerful drivers of a strong workforce, thriving families, and a vibrant local economy. In the City of La Crosse, access to childcare directly influences whether parents can work, businesses can grow, and communities can remain stable and resilient. The Child Care Development Coordinator plays a pivotal role in shaping that future.

Position Overview

The Child Care Development Coordinator is a mission-driven, community-focused professional who strengthens the quality, capacity, and visibility of childcare within the City of La Crosse. This individual serves as a connector, educator, and advocates building awareness of the economic importance of childcare, supporting providers, and aligning community efforts to improve access for families. The role blends relationship-building, systems thinking, project coordination, and community engagement.

Background & Experience

The strongest candidates will bring a blend of economic development, community engagement, and early childhood systems knowledge, including:

· Bachelor’s degree in business, Community Development, Early Childhood, or a related field

· Experience in economic development, community systems work, or early care and education

· Familiarity with Wisconsin childcare regulations, funding streams, and support systems

· Understanding of the childcare landscape in Western Wisconsin, including workforce and capacity challenges

· Experience with data collection, analysis, and communicating insights to diverse audiences

· Proficiency with Microsoft Office, email, databases, and digital communication tools

Preferred qualifications include:

· Three or more years of economic development experience

· Experience navigating childcare regulations

· Knowledge of challenges and barriers facing early care and education providers

Core Strengths & Competencies

Community Connector & Relationship Builder

· Build trust with business leaders, childcare providers, community partners, and public agencies

· Represent The Parenting Place and the City of La Crosse on committees and collaborative initiatives

· Facilitate one-on-one conversations, group meetings, and community presentations

Systems Thinker & Strategic Coordinator

· Recognize overlapping efforts and identifies opportunities for alignment and efficiency

· Understand how childcare availability influences workforce participation and economic growth

· Connects stakeholders to grants, funding opportunities, and technical assistance

Data-Informed Communicator

· Interprets and presents childcare data to meet community needs

· Designs tools and processes to fill data gaps

· Communicates clearly in writing and in public speaking settings

Project Manager & Problem Solver

· Coordinates multiple initiatives simultaneously

· Supports retention, expansion, and recruitment efforts within the childcare sector

· Maintains organization, follow-through, and momentum across long-term projects

Professional and Personal Attributes That Drive Success

Professional Attributes

· Strategic Relationship Builder — naturally cultivates trust and navigates diverse stakeholder interests

· Systems-Oriented Thinker — sees connections across economic development, workforce needs, and childcare

· Clear and Confident Communicator — comfortable presenting, facilitating, and translating data into actionable insights

· Data-Informed and Analytical — uses data to guide decisions and community education

· Organized Project Manager — prioritizes effectively and manages multiple initiatives

· Collaborative Partner — thrives in cross-functional, community-based work

· Adaptable and Resourceful — pivots as community needs evolve

Personal Attributes

· Mission-Driven and Community-Focused — committed to strengthening families and supporting childcare providers

· Culturally Responsive and Inclusive — approaches all interactions with empathy and respect

· Relationship-Centered — enjoys connecting with people and building long-term partnerships

· Curious and Continuous Learner — stays informed about policy, funding, and best practices

· Self-Motivated and Independent — takes initiative and moves work forward with minimal direction

· Resilient and Steady — maintains professionalism when navigating complex systems or competing priorities

· Positive, Engaging Presence — brings energy, optimism, and a collaborative spirit to community work

If you’re ready to contribute to meaningful, lasting change in the La Crosse community, we encourage you to apply. As the Child Care Development Coordinator, you’ll help expand childcare access, strengthen the workforce, support regional economic growth, and build key partnerships across sectors. This is a full-time, limited-term position through the end of 2026, with the possibility of transitioning to a permanent role. The position reports to the Director of Early Care and Education and is benefit-eligible, including health, dental, vision, and paid time off and holidays.

Please send your resume and cover letter to jsteffes@steffeshradvantage.com. Applications will be accepted until June 15 or until the position is filled.

In late 2026, The Parenting Place will be adding staff to our Birth to 3 Early Intervention Services Team. Staff will primarily serve with our Birth to 3 team in Monroe County and will be based in our Sparta office. Staff may also serve a limited number of children ages 3-10 in our Grow Strong Pediatric Therapies from either the La Crosse or Sparta office. We are seeking part-time or full-time staff who are enthusiastic about providing services in the family’s natural environment: typically the child’s home or childcare setting. Therapists use coaching techniques with parents or caregivers to help them engage in strategies that will facilitate the child’s development within the family’s everyday routines. Applicants must hold a current WI licensure in their discipline. Reach out to learn more: marilynhuckenpoehler@theparentingplace.net