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Cdi Head Start Program Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Program-Specific Activities Ensure compliance with all Early/Head Start Program Performance Standards, including as interpreted by Start Early, as well as with relevant federal, state, city, and ...

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Cdi Head Start Program information

See Illinois salary details

$21.8K

$64.9K

$119.7K

How much do cdi head start program jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for cdi head start program in Illinois is $64,882.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,500.00 and $77,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Cdi Head Start Program job?

A CDI Head Start Program job involves working with children and families to provide early childhood education, nutrition, and family support services. CDI (Community Development Institute) operates Head Start programs across the U.S. when local grantees are transitioning. Roles vary from teachers and caregivers to administrative and support staff, all focused on preparing children for school success. Employees follow federal Head Start guidelines while fostering a nurturing and educational environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Cdi Head Start Program position, and why are they important?

To excel in the CDI Head Start Program role, you need a strong background in early childhood education, program management, and compliance with Head Start Performance Standards, typically with a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education or a related field. Familiarity with child progress tracking systems, curriculum planning tools, and regulatory reporting software is often required. Exceptional communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities help foster a positive environment for both staff and families. These skills are essential to promote child development, ensure program compliance, and build effective partnerships with families and the community.

What does a typical day look like for someone working in the CDI Head Start Program?

A typical day in the CDI Head Start Program involves overseeing classroom activities, supporting teachers and assistants, coordinating with families, and ensuring compliance with Head Start guidelines and safety standards. Employees often collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams such as family service workers, health coordinators, and community partners. Daily tasks may include managing program records, participating in meetings, organizing educational activities, and responding to individual children’s needs. The role requires flexibility, proactive communication, and a passion for early childhood development, which contribute to a dynamic and rewarding work environment.
What are popular job titles related to Cdi Head Start Program jobs in Illinois? For Cdi Head Start Program jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cdi Head Start Program jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Cdi Head Start Program jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Cdi Head Start Program jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Cdi Head Start Program job openings:
Head Start Director

$65.49K - $75.64K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

TITLE: Head Start Director
DIVISION: Head Start
REPORTS TO: Executive Director
SUPERVISES: Service Team, Site Supervisors, & Associate Site Supervisors
FLSA: Exempt, Non-Medical (E-NM)
I. POSITION SUMMARY:
The Head Start Director is responsible for assuring all Head Start program mandates, Performance
Standards, and all applicable laws and regulations are being met. This position is responsible for
the development, planning, implementation, and evaluation of the Head Start program. This position
is a member of the Leadership Team and works and consults with the team to develop the structure of
the program and to assure that the program is strategically positioned for the future.
II. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  1. Provides guidance and leadership to staff to ensure the program meets Head Start Performance
    Standards, school readiness goals, quality outcomes, and all other applicable laws and regulations.
  2. Provides supervision to direct reports and meets with them on a regular schedule to share
    information, provide feedback, and conduct performance evaluations while gaining input from others
    as needed.
  3. Plans and conducts monthly Site Supervisor meetings, Management meetings, and Service Team
    meetings.
  4. Meets more frequently with Associate Site Supervisors to keep them updated on information shared
    in Site Supervisor & Management Team Meetings. Takes the lead with performance evaluations,
    interviewing, and disciplining of staff located at centers with an Associate Site Supervisor.
  5. Reviews and approves all direct report time sheets, overtime, travel vouchers, and leave of
    absence requests and submits all forms to Payroll Department on a timely basis. Keeps Human Resources informed on potential Family Medical Leave or Extended Medical Leave requests or
    attendance issues.
  6. Assumes an active role in the annual program self-assessment and assures remediation for any
    non-compliance areas and incorporates recommendations into planning for the improvement of the
    program.
  7. Assumes an active role in the Community Assessment that is completed every five years and
    updated each year as required.
  8. Participates in quarterly Head Start Safety Chairperson meetings.
  9. Participates in weekly and monthly meetings with Maintenance Department to ensure all work
    orders are completed in a timely manner.
  10. Leads planning meetings in which long and short-term goals for improvement are established and gains input and approval from the Policy Council and Board of Health.
  11. Takes an active role with community partnerships and school districts in the community to foster
    collaboration with the Head Start program.
  12. Investigates and resolves parent and community complaints about the program, seeking input from
    staff, parents, or the Board, as needed.
  13. Develops the annual grant to HHS/Office of Head Start and applies for any special grants when
    available to acquire funds for identified needs. Provides information to the Regional
    Office/Program Specialist as requested in a timely manner.
  14. Maintains a close working relationship with the Executive Director to evaluate high level
    decisions for the Head Start program.
  15. Maintains a close working relationship with the Fiscal Officer to include but not limited to
    collaborating on the annual budget and monitoring expenditures and the non-federal share
    requirement.
  16. Maintains a close working relationship with Human Resources to ensure appropriate staffing and
    to ensure that all policies and procedures are followed regarding hiring, terminating, grievances,
    and disciplining of staff according to applicable laws and regulations as well as S7HD Personnel
    Policies.
  17. Assumes an active role in the Wage Comparability Study to ensure that all staff are compensated
    fairly and equitably in salary and benefits.
  18. Maintains effective, appropriate communication with the Policy Council and the Board of Health
    including: attending all regular and special meetings, providing a written report for each meeting,
    providing oral reports and being responsive to questions and suggestions, and providing training
    for new members and refresher for veteran members regarding their roles and responsibilities for
    the Head Start program.
  19. Facilitates the continuing professional development for all staff and provides and/or secures
    technical and training assistance for staff.
  20. Consults with the Education Team to assure that all classrooms and playgrounds are well-equipped
    and that a comprehensive curriculum of instruction is used to ensure that children are prepared to
    enter school when exiting the program.
  21. Consults with the ERSEA Specialist to assure full enrollment of the program and offers support
    and strategies to assist with this as needed.
  22. Remains current in the field of Head Start by participating and attending regional and state
    meetings and trainings including but not limited to the Illinois Head Start Association.
  23. Anticipates potential problems and implements preventive measures and solutions when
    appropriate.
  24. Responsible for developing a partnership with parents and caregivers in the Head Start program
    and encourages each parent/caregiver to take in active role in their child's Head Start experience.
  25. Responsible for carrying out best practices for safety procedures concerning children, staff, families, and community individuals and for assessing current practices and finding ways and areas needing improvement.
  26. Responsible for participating in activities and attitudes that promote positive public relations and positive image for the program and agency.
  27. Complies and is familiar with the requirements of the policies and procedures adopted by Southern Seven Health Department as required by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

III. NON-ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  1. Responsible for cleanliness of facility, playgrounds, vehicles, and other areas applicable to the well-being and image of the program.
  2. Participates in Emergency Preparedness Planning/Training.
  3. Participates as a member of the after-hours response team.
  4. Coordinates with Transportation Specialist to schedule buses and drivers for all field trips and outings.
  5. Participates in agency committees to represent Administration as assigned by the Executive Director.
  6. Participates in classroom monitoring using tools such as CLASS, ECERS/ITERS, and/or locally designed checklists.

IV. ADDITONAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  1. All duties necessary to meet requirements of the Head Start program.

V. TRAINING COMPONENT
  • Participates in continuing education and staff development through coaching, seminars, conferences,
    or workshops at personal or departmental expenses.

VI. QUALIFICATIONS:
  1. Education, Training and Experience:
    1. Requires a Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education or approved related AND
    2. A minimum of two (2) years of supervisory experience and Head Start experience.
  2. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
    1. Effective oral and written communication skills
    2. Excellent organizational and leadership skills.
    3. Knowledge and use of modern office practices and procedures, including basic computer skills.
    4. Knowledge and use of English language and grammar.
    5. Knowledge and use of appropriate telephone etiquette.
    6. Ability to carry detailed oral and written instructions.
    7. Ability to plan, organize, and supervise work of others and encourage problem solving.
  3. Certification and Other Requirements:
    1. Requirements: DCFS background/criminal check, DCFS Physical, Mandated Reporter, valid driver's license & auto liability insurance, and DCFS Licensing required courses
    2. Recommendations: Hepatitis B Vaccine, CPR/First Aide, and CLASS Reliable.
  4. Physical Requirements:
    1. Strength: Lift/carry up to 25 pounds on occasion and 10 pounds frequently.
    2. Movement:
      1. Routine:
        1. Sit, walk, or stand for prolonged periods of time.
        2. Lift horizontally and vertically, bend and stoop, push/pull, twist, carry, crouch, squat, kneel,
          crawl, climb, reach above shoulder level.
        3. Hear and understand speech at normal room levels and on the telephone.
      2. Occasion: Use near visual acuity to review both written documents and text on computer monitor.
    3. Drive an automobile.
    4. Operate a telephone, keyboard and mouse.
    5. Bloodborne Pathogen Exposure: Minimal Occupational Exposure

"Southern Seven Health Department is an "Equal Opportunity Employer/Vet/Disabled"