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Head Start Program Director Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

$25/hr

Director, Head Start Program Job Summary: This position is responsible for overseeing the physical sites of BBCF's Head Start centers, storage units and administrative offices including all building ...

The Head Start Lead Program Specialist provides senior-level programmatic and grants management support to the Office of Head Start (OHS) Regional Offices under the National Customer Service ...

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Head Start Program Director information

See Alabama salary details

$26.7K

$70.9K

$124.2K

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

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for head start program director in Alabama is $70,876.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,000.00 and $83,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Head Start Program Director vs Head Start Center Supervisor?

AspectHead Start Program DirectorHead Start Center Supervisor
CredentialsBachelor's degree in early childhood education or related field; experience in program managementHigh school diploma or associate's degree; experience in early childhood education or supervision
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple centers or programs, administrative settingManages daily operations of a single center, direct supervision of staff
ResponsibilitiesProgram planning, compliance, staff management, community relationsStaff supervision, classroom quality, parent engagement, daily operations

The Head Start Program Director typically oversees multiple centers and handles administrative and strategic responsibilities, requiring higher credentials. In contrast, the Head Start Center Supervisor manages daily operations at a single center, focusing on staff and classroom quality. Both roles are vital but differ in scope and level of responsibility.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Head Start Program Director?

To thrive as a Head Start Program Director, you need expertise in early childhood education, program administration, and regulatory compliance, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in education or a related field. Familiarity with Head Start Performance Standards, ChildPlus software, and grant management systems is essential. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help in managing staff, building community partnerships, and ensuring program quality. These competencies are crucial for delivering high-quality educational services to children and families while maintaining compliance with federal and state requirements.

What is a Head Start Program Director?

A Head Start Program Director is responsible for overseeing the operations of a Head Start program, which provides early childhood education, health, nutrition, and parent involvement services to low-income children and their families. The director manages staff, ensures compliance with federal and state regulations, develops program policies, and oversees budgets and grants. Their goal is to ensure that children are prepared for school and that families receive the support they need. This role also involves collaborating with community organizations and engaging with parents to strengthen program outcomes.

What are some common challenges faced by Head Start Program Directors, and how can candidates prepare for them?

Head Start Program Directors often navigate challenges such as balancing compliance with federal regulations, managing diverse teams, and ensuring high-quality early childhood education for all children served. Candidates should be prepared to implement effective systems for staff supervision, budget management, and community engagement. Developing strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills is essential for addressing these challenges and fostering a positive, supportive environment for both staff and families.
What are popular job titles related to Head Start Program Director jobs in Alabama? For Head Start Program Director jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Head Start Program Director jobs in Alabama look for? The top searched job categories for Head Start Program Director jobs in Alabama are:
What cities in Alabama are hiring for Head Start Program Director jobs? Cities in Alabama with the most Head Start Program Director job openings:
Infographic showing various Head Start Program Director job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,876 per year, or $34.1 per hour.

Operations Manager, Head Start Program

Lyons HR, LLC

On-site

$25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Operations Manager, Head Start Program
Location: Black Belt Community Foundation (BBCF), covering Choctaw, Dallas, Marengo, and Wilcox counties
Reports To: Director, Head Start Program Job Summary: This position is responsible for overseeing the physical sites of BBCF's Head Start centers, storage units and administrative offices including all building operations, such as cleaning, maintenance and security.  It includes overseeing the Head Start transportation program and the fleet.  The role includes supervising a team.
Key Responsibilities:
• Facility Operations
o Ensure that BBCF’s Head Start centers, storage units, and administrative offices comply with state, federal, and internal policies, including but not exclusively to  Head Start Performance Standards 2024, Alabama Minimum Standards for Childcare Centers, Federal and State Laws, and BBCF’s Fiscal Policies and Procedures. o Oversee property and liability insurance, ensuring it remains up to date, and work with the Fiscal Department and Chief of Staff on any issues that may impact coverage.
o Perform annual or bi-annual audits of all furniture, supplies, equipment and other assets to maintain accurate records and protect company property.
o Manage the transportation fleet, including buses and cars, ensuring all vehicles meet State of Alabama Board of Education regulations, as well as federal and state transportation laws.
o Oversee vehicle maintenance, driver compliance, route planning, and ensure all transportation staff are properly trained and licensed.
o Ensure all buildings pass annual fire inspections to maintain occupancy permits.
o Oversee the functionality of essential building systems, such as HVAC, security, and alarm systems, ensuring they are regularly maintained and operational.
o Coordinate disaster preparedness programs, including disaster response drills, to ensure staff and facilities are prepared for emergencies.
o Supervise the cleaning of all BBCF buildings to maintain hygiene and safety standards.
o Manage security systems across all facilities to ensure the safety of staff, children, and assets.
• Administrative & Management
o Supervise bus drivers, custodians, and maintenance staff, providing guidance, performance feedback, approving timecards and requests for time off, and overseeing daily operations related to facilities and fleet.
o Collaborate with the BBCF President and Controller to ensure proper oversight and protection of BBCF assets with federal interest, including buildings, vehicles, and equipment.
o Collaborate with the Fiscal Department to ensure compliance with budgeting, purchasing regulations, and safety guidelines in accordance with Head Start and BBCF fiscal practices.
o Maintain vendor relationships to oversee the purchasing of building supplies, such as paper towels and cleaning products, ensuring the timely acquisition and distribution of materials.
o Ensure all licenses and permits for facilities, transportation, and safety compliance are up to date, coordinating with vendors and regulatory bodies as needed.
o Manage administrative duties related to facility operations, including recordkeeping, report preparation, and working with the Head Start Director and other departments to align activities with organizational goals. 
Qualifications:
• A college degree is preferred in a related field of study.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in operations management, preferably within an educational or nonprofit setting.
• Experience in fleet management or coordinating transportation services is a plus.
• Strong leadership and supervisory skills with experience managing diverse teams.
• Knowledge of safety regulations and compliance standards for educational facilities.
• Excellent organizational and problem-solving abilities.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Must be able to obtain Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with an "S" endorsement
• Must pass physical examination and all Head Start/licensing required background checks. Maintain current Physical/TB screen requirements including but not limited to:
o possess a clean driving record o passes a criminal background check
o passes a screening for alcohol and drugs o passes a physical examination and is able to lift 50 pounds o passes a tuberculosis (TB) test
o has good hearing and at least 20/40 vision with or without glasses
Physical Demands:
• Ability to travel between sites as needed.
• Occasionally required to lift and carry supplies and equipment.
Working Conditions:
• The Operations Manager will primarily work on-site across multiple locations within the BBCF service area.
• May require evening or weekend work to address urgent operational issues.
Application Process: Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter to HR@blackbeltfound.org, highlighting their relevant experience and qualifications. 

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About Lyons HR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Human resources consulting services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Florence, AL, US

Year founded

1995