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Head Start Program Director Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Center Director

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$44K - $61K/yr

This position serves as a Center Director for the Head Start program. The Center Director serves as the operational lead for the center, ensuring compliance with all program policies/procedures and ...

Center Director

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$44K - $61K/yr

This position serves as a Center Director for the Head Start program. The Center Director serves as the operational lead for the center, ensuring compliance with all program policies/procedures and ...

Showing results 21-40

Head Start Program Director information

See Indiana salary details

$28.1K

$74.4K

$130.4K

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

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for head start program director in Indiana is $74,408.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,400.00 and $88,000.00 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 Indiana? For Head Start Program Director jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Head Start Program Director jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Head Start Program Director jobs in Indiana are:
Infographic showing various Head Start Program Director job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,408 per year, or $35.8 per hour.

Early Head Start Teacher Assistant

Carey Services Inc

Marion, IN • On-site

$14.06/hr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Carey Services rating

4.6

Company rating: 4.6 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description

Job Details:

Pay: $14.06/hour

Location: Marion, IN

Schedule: Monday - Friday | 8:30AM - 3:30PM



Job Summary: The EHS Teacher Assistant, under the direct supervision of the EHS Classroom Supervisor (and informally to the EHS Teacher) is responsible for assisting primary teachers, working with very young children, their parents, other staff, volunteers, and community partners to provide developmentally appropriate quality childcare in a center-based environment that is in compliance with all Head Start Program Performances Standards and any related State Licensing requirements.


What we're looking for: Teaching Assistants support the lead teacher by providing compassionate care, maintaining a safe classroom, and actively engaging with children. They demonstrate patience, professionalism, initiative, and a willingness to learn. Great Teaching Assistants understand that every moment matters. Through kindness, teamwork, reliability, and a genuine love for young children, they help create an environment where every child feels safe, valued, and ready to learn.




As an EHS Teacher Assistant in Marion, you'll spend your days: 

Assisting in implementing developmentally appropriate classroom instruction, based on each child's individual needs.

Providing responsive care to all children.

Ensuring the safety of all children by checking toys, equipment, building, and grounds daily.

Assisting in integrating all aspects of the Head Start Program Performance Standards and any related licensing requirements into the schedule and curriculum of each classroom child.

Communicate daily with primary teachers and children, and in a secondary capacity to the parents and families.

Providing assistance in indoor and outdoor settings as directed by supervisor or primary teacher.

Encouraging and respecting the particular ethnic background of all EHS and Carey Services families, children, clients and staff.

Completing all paperwork requirements in an accurate and timely manner.

Completing additional educational requirements to meet State and Federal Standards.

Participating in ongoing training activities as assigned.

Adhering to all plans, policies, and procedures of Carey Services and Early Head Start.

Promoting agency-wide safety and housekeeping as well as takes a proactive approach to preventive maintenance and delivery of quality service.

Adapting to flexible schedules based on EHS needs.

Performing other duties as assigned.


Ideal Experience, Background, and Skills:

Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education preferred. Associates Degree with experience in Early Childhood related field may be substituted. 

Leadership & Staff Coaching

Compliance & Attention to Detail

Communication & Relationship Building

Organization & Problem-Solving

Early Childhood Education Expertise

Adaptability, problem-solving, and self-motivation



 Carey Services, Inc is an EOE/AAP Employer. Veterans, women, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply! 

Requirements

Education and Experience: Must be 21 years or older; must possess a valid driver's license, adequate automobile insurance, and meet agency insurability requirements; must hold a high school diploma/GED; CDA infant/toddler is preferred; must be willing to obtain CDA for infant/toddler after employed; must be willing to pursue additional education as required by ongoing regulations, such as effective communication and safety practices for infants and toddlers, etc.; must be willing to pursue additional education, as required by State and Federal standards and regulations; must demonstrate competency to provide effective and nurturing teacher/child interactions, plan and implement learning experiences that ensure effective curriculum implementation and use of assessment, and promote children's progress across the standards described in the Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework: Ages Birth to Five and applicable state early learning and development standards, including for children with disabilities and dual language learners, as appropriate. 

Knowledge and Skills: Must have a thorough understanding of childcare program and possess effective communication with and safety practices for infants and toddlers; must be able to learn (instruction provided) basic principles of teaching; must have good basic mathematical computation and English Language writing knowledge; must possess nurturing skills, be able to implement positive and anticipatory guidance with children, and be able to move and play with small children both in and out of doors, including routine tasks such as diaper changing, feeding, moving toys, washing laundry and dishes; must possess the skills to communicate in a meaningful and appropriate manner with young children; must be highly organized, detail oriented, and able to communicate well both verbally and in writing.

Physical Requirements: Ability to walk, bend, stoop or stand for extended periods; must be able to pick-up, hold, and move 40+ lbs. Must have the sensory capacities to successfully execute essential job functions.; must be able to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) such as but not limited to: gloves, masks, gowns, face shields, shoes, ear plugs, etc. 

Safety and Compliance: Must be able to follow all required safe and universal precaution practices during a pandemic and as required otherwise; as required by specific job requirements must know first aid, health & safety measures or build an acceptable competence level by post-hire training.


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