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Head Start Program Director Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

SCMCAA

Head Start Teacher Aide

Poplar Bluff, MO ยท On-site

$15.80/hr

Be positive with parents and children as the program's first and last contact of the day ... The Executive Director may, at any time, for disciplinary purposes, the utilization of personnel ...

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All JobsHead Start Program JobsHead Start Program Director JobsHead Start Program Director Jobs in Missouri

Head Start Program Director information

See Missouri salary details

$27.7K

$73.3K

$128.5K

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

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for head start program director in Missouri is $73,348.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,700.00 and $86,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Head Start Program Director jobs in Missouri?

For Head Start Program Director jobs in Missouri, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Head Start Program Director jobs in Missouri look for?

The top searched job categories for Head Start Program Director jobs in Missouri are:

What cities in Missouri are hiring for Head Start Program Director jobs?

Cities in Missouri with the most Head Start Program Director job openings:

Head Start Program Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Head Start Program Director job openings in Missouri as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, and 32% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $73,348 per year, or $35.3 per hour.

Grants & Compliance Specialist Head Start

JBS International

Kansas City, MO โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

The Early Childhood Specialist I provides grant management support and delivers customer service for Head Start, Early Head Start, and Early Head Start-Child Care Partnership grant recipients. The Early Childhood Specialist I is a subject matter expert that leads a team supports regional and national initiatives, and ensures timely, accurate, and compliant execution of grant management activities. As lead expert for their assigned region, this position coordinates daily activities to ensure that grant recipients comply with grant agreement terms and federal regulations. This position oversees continuous improvement in grant recipients๏ฟฝ operations and processes in alignment with federal policy, practice, and programs.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
  • Oversee review of grant applications, budget modifications, supplemental applications (including change in scope and facilities requests), waiver requests, and post-award requirements.
  • Oversee that grant-related analysis and documentation are accurately recorded in federal data management systems.
  • Oversee the execution of grant awards and related administrative actions.
  • Aggregate, analyze, and present data gathered from multiple sources.
  • Monitor and identify performance or compliance concerns and support development of risk mitigation strategies that inform customer service.
  • Lead and guide a team that provides accurate guidance and customer service support that aligns to support grant recipients๏ฟฝ compliance with Head Start Program Performance Standards and grant requirements.
  • Develop, refine and implement standard operating procedures, guidance documents, training materials, and webinars.
  • Support grant recipients in developing and implementing targeted improvement strategies
  • Monitor grant recipients๏ฟฝ progress in improving performance, compliance, and accountability of their funded programs
  • Apply a continuous quality improvement (CQI) approach to ensure that oversight mechanisms evolve to support grant recipients and promote positive outcomes for children and families.
  • Produce high-quality written products such as memoranda, presentations, and correspondence.

MINIMUM JOB REQUIREMENTS:
Education:
  • Bachelor's degree in early childhood education, human services, public administration, or related field, from an accredited university or college.

Experience:
  • 5 years of progressive professional experience directly related to early childhood programs, with a preference for Head Start/Early Head Start programs, including experience with federal discretionary grants management, non-profit or for-profit program and/or financial management, and regulatory compliance monitoring and oversight
  • 2 years supervisory experience

Skills:
  • Experience using federal information systems including HSES, AMS, and GrantSolutions.
  • Demonstrate ability to work independently whilst coordinating a larger team.
  • Excellent organization and time management skills.
  • Ability to write clearly and concisely with attention to detail and target audience focus.
  • Strong analytical and critical thinking skills

Language:
English fluency (oral and written)
Software Proficiency:
Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Power BI ), Smartsheet
LOCATION:
This is an onsite position, you must be able to report to one of the following locations:
Philadelphia, PA
Washington, DC
Atlanta, GA
Denver, CO
Kansas City, MO
Dallas, TX
SECURITY CLEARANCE:
Ability to pass background investigations as required for access to federal facilities and systems.
TRAVEL: up to 25 percent.
Physical Requirements:
  • Extended Computer Use: Ability to sit for extended periods and operate a computer keyboard and mouse.
  • Vision: Must be able to see and read computer screens and printed materials.
  • Dexterity: Capable of using hands and fingers to operate equipment and perform tasks requiring precision.
  • Communication: Able to effectively communicate verbally and in writing with team members and stakeholders.
  • Mobility: Frequently required to stand, walk, reach, and bend to access office equipment and attend meetings.
  • Lifting: Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds for short distances.
  • Sensory Abilities: Must be able to perceive and interact with the environment using hearing and speaking skills.
  • Work Environment: Primarily works in a typical office environment, with exposure to computer screens and moderate noise levels.

PREFERRED JOB REQUIREMENTS:
  • Experience or training in federal interest, fiscal reporting, in-kind contributions, cost allocation, budgeting, and/or internal controls for Head Start programs.
  • Experience in designing, purchasing, constructing, renovating, and/or maintaining facilities that operate Head Start programs.
  • Experience in addressing sensitive subject matter such as child abuse and neglect.
  • Experience in budget analysis
  • Relevant experience in federal monitoring of early childhood programs, fiscal management of early childhood programs, facilities and/or early childhood learning environments, child health and safety, and Head Start program options, the Full Enrollment Initiative (FEI) and changes in scope (CiS).

OTHER DUTIES AS ASSIGNED: This position description should not be construed to imply that these requirements are the exclusive standards of the position, nor will it be the sole basis for any subsequent employee evaluations. Incumbents will follow any other instructions and perform any other related duties as may be required by their supervisor.
This position is subject to availability of funds and to any and all restrictions contained in the contract or contracts that provide funding for this position.
APPLICATION INFORMATION:
If you meet the minimum requirements for this position, please click on the "Apply" link posted below and complete the application. Please include cover letter, resume, and at least (3) professional references.
Our company is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. Applicants can learn more about the company's status as an equal opportunity employer by viewing the federal "EEO" poster at EEOPost.pdf. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status.
If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please contact us by email at jobs@jbsinternational.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.

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