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Head Start Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Associate Teacher - Head Start

Galion, OH · On-site

$18.23 - $19.14/hr

At OHCAC Head Start, we recognize that 90% of the brain is formed before a child even steps into a kindergarten classroom. As part of the Early Learning team, your work with infants to preschoolers ...

Early Head Start Teacher

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$26.75 - $32.52/hr

All Kids Academy Head Start is currently accepting applicants for Early Head Start teacher Positions for the 2026-27 school year. Join our team in the mission to close the achievement gap by ...

Early Head Start Teacher

San Diego, CA · On-site

$26.75 - $32.52/hr

All Kids Academy Head Start is currently accepting applicants for Early Head Start teacher Positions for the 2026-27 school year. Join our team in the mission to close the achievement gap by ...

Early Head Start Teacher

Spring Valley, CA · On-site

$26.75 - $32.52/hr

All Kids Academy Head Start is currently accepting applicants for Early Head Start teacher Positions for the 2026-27 school year. Join our team in the mission to close the achievement gap by ...

Early Head Start Teacher

La Mesa, CA · On-site

$26.75 - $32.52/hr

All Kids Academy Head Start is currently accepting applicants for Early Head Start teacher Positions for the 2026-27 school year. Join our team in the mission to close the achievement gap by ...

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Head Start information

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$22K

$96.6K

$221K

How much do head start jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for head start in the United States is $96,611.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $125,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Head Start teacher?

A Head Start teacher is an early childhood educator who works in the federally funded Head Start program, which serves preschool-aged children from low-income families. Their primary responsibilities include planning and implementing educational activities, promoting social and emotional development, and ensuring a safe and nurturing classroom environment. Head Start teachers also work closely with families to support children's learning and connect them with community resources. They play a vital role in preparing children for kindergarten and future academic success.

What are some common challenges faced by Head Start teachers, and how can they effectively address them?

Head Start teachers often work with children from diverse backgrounds who may face economic or developmental challenges. Common challenges include managing varying levels of readiness among students, engaging families who may have limited resources, and meeting program requirements for documentation and assessments. To address these, teachers can utilize differentiated instruction, collaborate closely with family service workers, and participate in ongoing professional development. Building strong relationships with both students and families is key to creating a supportive learning environment and ensuring children's success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Head Start teacher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Head Start teacher, you need a background in early childhood education, child development knowledge, and often an associate or bachelor’s degree in a related field. Familiarity with curriculum planning tools, assessment systems, and compliance with Head Start Program Performance Standards is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and cultural sensitivity are vital soft skills for engaging young children and their families. These skills are crucial for fostering positive learning environments and supporting the holistic development of children in under-resourced communities.

What is the difference between Head Start vs Preschool Teacher?

AspectHead StartPreschool Teacher
Required CredentialsAssociate's degree or higher in early childhood education or related fieldHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions require early childhood certification
Work EnvironmentHead Start programs in community centers, schools, or dedicated facilities, serving low-income childrenPreschools, daycare centers, or private early childhood education settings
Employer & Industry UsageFederal-funded program focusing on comprehensive early childhood developmentPrivate and public preschools, daycare centers, and early childhood education providers

Head Start and Preschool Teachers both work with young children in early education settings. Head Start programs are federally funded, emphasizing comprehensive services for low-income families, often requiring specific credentials. Preschool Teachers may work in various settings, with credentials varying by employer. While both roles focus on early childhood development, Head Start offers a broader scope of services and funding sources compared to typical preschool teaching positions.

More about Head Start jobs
What cities are hiring for Head Start jobs? Cities with the most Head Start job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Start jobs? The most popular types of Start jobs are:
What states have the most Head Start jobs? States with the most job openings for Head Start jobs include:
Infographic showing various Head Start job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Locum Tenens, 4% As Needed, 35% Full Time, 55% Part Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,611 per year, or $46.4 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Position Type:
Head Start School Teaching/Head Start Teacher
Date Posted:
1/31/2025
Location:
Elkhart & St. Joseph Counties Head Start
Date Available:
IMMEDIATEMultiple Positions Available
ONE OF THE FOLLOWING REQUIRED FOR A HEAD START TEACHING POSITION:
Bachelor's Degree + Preschool CDA
Bachelor's Degree w/Preschool CDA within 2 years
Bachelor's Degree in Education/Early Childhood Education
Click link to the right for full job description
Attachment(s):
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