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Head Start Program Director Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Kids Central Inc.

Early Head Start Assistant

Norton, VA · On-site

$13.25 - $18/hr

... programs. * Understands social and economic background and developmental need of children and families. * Demonstrates knowledge of overall Head Start goals and philosophy. * Demonstrates ...

York County, VA

Teacher I/II (Head Start)

Yorktown, VA · On-site

$44K - $47K/yr

... County's Head Start program. Plans and carries out a daily program that meets the physical and ... Works in collaboration with other program staff to ensure the educational, health, and social ...

STEP

Teachers Assistant - Head Start

Rocky Mount, VA

$14.44 - $18.69/hr

The Head Start Teacher Assistant will be responsible for assisting in the planning and carrying out of the educational program and the day-to-day operations of the Head Start classroom. The ...

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All JobsHead Start Program JobsHead Start Program Director JobsHead Start Program Director Jobs in Virginia

Head Start Program Director information

See Virginia salary details

$29.2K

$77.5K

$135.8K

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

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for head start program director in Virginia is $77,525.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,500.00 and $91,700.00 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 Virginia? For Head Start Program Director jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Head Start Program Director jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Head Start Program Director jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Head Start Program Director jobs? Cities in Virginia 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 Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 7% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $77,525 per year, or $37.3 per hour.

Head Start Program Manager

The Improvement Association

Waverly, VA

$54K - $58K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description


About This Role

The Program Manager is responsible for the implementation of the education/transition service area plan by serving as direct line supervisor for all Head Start Teachers and providing on-site consultation to Teaching staff. The Education Specialist will ensure that the Head Start curriculum and day-to-day activities meet the needs of the children in the program while adhering to the policies and procedures called for in performance standards, licensing standards and service delivery plans; and will develop and maintain procedures and agreements related to transitioning into, through and out of Head Start


What You'll Do

The Program Manager is responsible for ensuring full implementation of Head Start program goals, educational policies, and Performance Standards across all assigned centers. This position provides leadership in instructional quality, compliance monitoring, and staff development to support high‑quality early childhood education and successful transitions for children and families.


The Program Manager conducts ongoing supervision and annual evaluations of teaching staff, ensuring adherence to program expectations and individual child developmental plans. A minimum of two weekly classroom observations and one home visit per teacher are completed to monitor compliance with Performance Standards and licensing regulations. Following observations, the specialist provides on‑site coaching, recommending behavioral and instructional strategies that strengthen classroom practices and improve child outcomes.


The role includes participation in language and literacy training and delivery of literacy‑focused coaching and professional development to teaching teams. Monthly reports and data summaries are submitted to the Head Start Director, and all mentor‑coach competencies are maintained in accordance with federal requirements.


The Program Manager coordinates transition activities by identifying school‑based liaisons, supporting teachers in planning transition events, and collaborating with the Health/Disabilities Specialist to develop individualized transition plans for children with disabilities. The specialist also leads the annual review and update of the education service delivery plan to ensure alignment with the School Readiness Plan.

Additional responsibilities include coordinating staff training, assessing equipment and material needs, maintaining effective communication with education staff, participating in administrative meetings and program self‑assessments, assisting with staff interviews, and fulfilling mandated reporting requirements. At the Waverly site, the specialist oversees daily building operations, conducts monthly inspections and fire drills, supervises food services, and communicates with parents regarding children’s progress and behaviors while exercising sound professional judgment.


Requirements
  • Baccalaureate degree in Early Childhood Education with experience in teaching pre-school children.
  • Must possess good written and oral communication skills.
  • Satisfactory Virginia State Police Criminal Background Check and Child Protective Service Registry