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Head Start Program Director Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Behavior Floater (SEL)

Memphis, TN · On-site

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

Provide direct support to classrooms by implementing behavior strategies for children with ... Head Start Program Performance Standards and developmentally appropriate practices. Trauma-informed ...

Behavior Floater (SEL)

Memphis, TN · On-site

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

Provide direct support to classrooms by implementing behavior strategies for children with ... Head Start Program Performance Standards and developmentally appropriate practices. Trauma-informed ...

Behavior Floater (SEL)

Memphis, TN · On-site

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

Provide direct support to classrooms by implementing behavior strategies for children with ... Head Start Program Performance Standards and developmentally appropriate practices. Trauma-informed ...

Teacher Early HS I

Dyersburg, TN

$15.85/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Center Director or Manager, Education & Inclusion Division: Head Start, U.S. Programs Save the Children For over 100 years, Save the Children has been fighting for the rights of children. The right ...

Teacher Early HS I

Dyersburg, TN

$15.85/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Center Director or Manager, Education & Inclusion Division: Head Start, U.S. Programs Save the Children For over 100 years, Save the Children has been fighting for the rights of children. The right ...

Teacher Early HS I

Dyersburg, TN · On-site

$15.85/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Center Director or Manager, Education & Inclusion Division: Head Start, U.S. Programs Save the Children For over 100 years, Save the Children has been fighting for the rights of children. The right ...

Showing results 41-60

Head Start Program Director information

See Tennessee salary details

$26.8K

$71K

$124.3K

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

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for head start program director in Tennessee is $70,972.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,100.00 and $84,000.00 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 Tennessee?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Head Start Program Director job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,972 per year, or $34.1 per hour.

Head Start Family Services Specialist (CDL Bus Driver)

Mid-Cumberland Community Agency

Springfield, TN • On-site

$16.54 - $17.54/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description


Mission Statement:

Mid-Cumberland Community Action Agency will act as a stepping stone to create stronger communities where families with low incomes have opportunities to connect, grow, and maintain dignity.

Summary

The Family Services & Health Specialist assists in the administration of health program requirements, daily operations of a Head Start site, and bus driving responsibilities as assigned.

Exceptional Benefits Package

✅ 100% Employer-Paid Health Insurance
✅ 100% Employer-Paid Dental Insurance
✅ 100% Employer-Paid Life Insurance

✅ Low-Cost Vision Insurance Available
✅ 5% Employer Contribution to Your 401(k) After One Year of Service — No Employee Contribution Required
✅ Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays
✅ Professional Development Opportunities
✅ Meaningful Work Serving Children and Families

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

  1. Complete health reports and track health services.
  2. Collect and prepare data reports for Head Start and Early Head Start staff, including the Health and Nutrition Coordinator and Site Manager.
  3. Review and monitor data for accuracy and completeness.
  4. Update health files and social service data as required.
  5. Schedule health, dental, or disability services appointments and provide transportation for children and parents when necessary.
  6. Maintain communication with parents through letters, newsletters, home visits, and phone calls.
  7. Prepare children for health services to ease apprehension.
  8. Assist the Family Service Advocate with Family Service activities as requested.
  9. Support food service tasks when needed.
  10. Drive the bus or act as a Bus Monitor as required.
  11. Safely operate a school bus over a designated route or for special trips.
  12. Perform daily vehicle inspections.
  13. Plan, schedule, and conduct routine bus maintenance and cleaning.
  14. Arrange and coordinate vehicle repairs.
  15. Maintain required vehicle records.
  16. Provide transportation for field trips, health appointments, and therapy sessions as needed.
  17. Educate children and parents on transportation safety.
  18. Participate in mealtimes with children when requested.
  19. Assist with center cleaning duties as needed.
  20. Support parent meetings or trainings.
  21. Recruit children for Head Start and Early Head Start programs.
  22. Attend meetings, committees, training, and conferences as required, including pre-service and in-service training.
  23. Work to obtain volunteer and in-kind contributions for the agency, submitting necessary documentation as requested.
  24. Assist in Head Start or Early Head Start classrooms when needed.
  25. Adhere to all Mid-Cumberland Community Action Agency Policies and Procedures, Head Start Performance Standards, and other applicable regulations.
  26. Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Education & Experience Qualifications

  • Education: High school diploma or GED required; medical background (CNA, MA) preferred.
  • Licensure: Current CDL license (minimum Class C) with PS endorsement required.
  • Experience: Intermediate computer skills and prior work experience with medical records, health screenings, or other medical-related fields preferred.