Capacity Building Jobs in New Jersey (NOW HIRING)

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF HEALTH & NUTRITION
2026-2027 SCHOOL YEAR

SUMMARY: The Leaguers, Inc. is seeking an Associate Director of Health & Nutrition for its Head Start/ Early Head Start Program.

POSITION DESCRIPTION: The Associate Director of Health and Nutrition provides strategic leadership, oversight, and coordination of comprehensive health, oral health, mental health, and nutrition services for children and families enrolled in Head Start and Early Head Start programs. This role ensures full compliance with Head Start Performance Standards, New Jersey childcare licensing regulations, and local health requirements, while promoting high-quality, culturally responsive services that support school readiness and family well-being.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: 

Program Leadership & Oversight

Assist in directing and managing the agency's health and nutrition service area across multiple program sites.

Ensure implementation of comprehensive health services including medical, dental, mental health, and nutrition.

Provide leadership in aligning program services with Head Start Performance Standards (45 CFR 1302 Subpart D Health Program Services).

Participate in strategic planning, program development, and continuous quality improvement initiatives.

Health Services Coordination

Oversee systems to ensure children receive required:

Physical exams and immunizations

Dental examination and follow-up treatment

Growth assessment, developmental, vision, and hearing screenings

Monitor and track health compliance data using program data systems.

Establish and maintain partnerships with local hospitals, clinics, dental providers, and public health agencies in Union/Essex County.

Develop protocols for managing special health needs, chronic conditions, and disabilities.

Nutrition Services Management

Oversee nutrition services in compliance with CACFP (Child and Adult Care Food Program) guidelines.

Ensure menus meet USDA nutritional requirements and are culturally appropriate.

Supervise nutrition staff and consultants (e.g., registered dietitians).

Promote nutrition education for children, staff, and families.

Monitor food safety, sanitation, and meal service operations.

Mental Health & Wellness

Coordinate with mental health and disability services team for children, families, and staff.

Support trauma-informed practices and social-emotional development strategies.

Ensure timely referrals and follow-up for behavioral or developmental concerns.

Staff Supervision & Capacity Building

Supervise health and nutrition staff across program sites.

Provide coaching, professional development, and performance management.

Ensure staff training in:

Health and safety practices

Mandated reporting

First aid/CPR

Nutrition and wellness best practices

Compliance & Monitoring

Ensure compliance with:

Head Start Performance Standards

NJ Department of Children and Families (DCF) licensing requirements

OSHA and local public health regulations

Prepare for federal, state, and local monitoring reviews.

Conduct internal audits and site visits to ensure service quality.

Maintain accurate health and nutrition records and reports.

Family Engagement & Community Partnerships

Collaborate with Family Services staff to support families in accessing health care and insurance.

Promote family education on:

Preventive health

Oral hygiene

Nutrition and healthy lifestyles

Engage parents in program planning and policy councils.

Build strong community partnerships to enhance service delivery.

Data & Reporting

Analyze health and nutrition data to inform decision-making.

Prepare reports for leadership, governing bodies, and funders.

Use data systems (e.g., ChildPlus or equivalent) to ensure accurate documentation and tracking.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education

Master's degree required in one of the following: Public Health, Nutrition/Dietetics, Nursing, Health Administration or related field

Experience - Minimum of 57 years of experience in health/nutrition services, preferably in: Head Start/Early Head Start, Early childhood programs, Community/public health settings and at least 3 years of supervisory or management experience.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Strong knowledge of Head Start Performance Standards and CACFP requirements

Understanding of public health systems in New Jersey

Leadership, supervision, and team-building skills

Data analysis and program evaluation skills

Excellent communication and partnership-building abilities

Ability to manage multiple sites and priorities effectively

Cultural competence and commitment to equity

SALARY:
Negotiated based on credentials and experience
LOCATION:
Central Office
FRINGE BENEFITS:
Twelve (12) Month Position
Benefit Package (Health, Prescription, Dental and Life Insurance) *Free Options Available
403-B Retirement Plan
Sick and Personal days
Paid Holidays
Winter and Spring Recess
Application Procedure:  All interested candidates must apply online.  All certifications, resume, letters of reference, Praxis scores and transcripts must be uploaded prior to the closing date of the posting to be considered for any position with The Leaguers, Inc.  Do not mail or email these documents. Once you submit an application you will receive an email confirmation.  This is your confirmation; please do not call to inquire if it has been received.  All candidates of interest will be contacted by the hiring department.
Selection Procedure: Candidates being considered for the position will be contacted by the hiring department to schedule an interview.
Equal Opportunity Employer: The Leaguers, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  The Leaguers, Inc. does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor. The Leaguers has a policy of active recruitment of qualified teachers and non-certified employees. Any individual needing assistance in completing a job application for any opening should contact the Department of Human Resources.