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Head Start Program Director Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Hendall Inc

Lead Program Specialist

Rockville, MD · On-site

$85K - $115K/yr

OVERVIEW Hendall is seeking experienced Lead Program Specialists to support the Office of Head Start (OHS) in advancing its mission to promote school readiness and improve outcomes for children and ...

Hendall

Lead Program Specialist

Rockville, MD · On-site

$85K - $115K/yr

OVERVIEW Hendall is seeking experienced Lead Program Specialists to support the Office of Head Start (OHS) in advancing its mission to promote school readiness and improve outcomes for children and ...

Hendall Inc

Lead Program Specialist

Rockville, MD · Remote

$85K - $115K/yr

OVERVIEW Hendall is seeking experienced Lead Program Specialists to support the Office of Head Start (OHS) in advancing its mission to promote school readiness and improve outcomes for children and ...

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All JobsHead Start Program JobsHead Start Program Director JobsHead Start Program Director Jobs in Washington

Head Start Program Director information

See Washington salary details

$33.4K

$88.6K

$155.2K

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

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for head start program director in Washington is $88,564.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,000.00 and $104,800.00 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, and why are they important?

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.
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Head Start Program Director jobs near you

Early Learning Coach - Baltimore County Early Head Start

ymaryland

Halethorpe, MD

Other

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY: 

This position serves as Coach for the Baltimore County  Early Head Start program.  This position is chiefly responsible for supporting educational quality, Curriculum implementation and positive child outcomes throughout the program, and performs other tasks as needed.  The Early Learning Coach works under the supervision of the Education Manager and collaborates with Zone Managers, teachers, and other staff in the Early Head Start program to ensure that outcomes are achieved for children of all abilities according to goals of Head Start Performance Standards. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 

The Early Head Start Early Learning Coach will need to perform the following responsibilities to achieve the key outcomes listed above:

Support For Educational Quality & Positive Child Outcomes:

  • Conduct monthly classroom observations in each center and classroom, both informally and formally (utilizing our program systems and tools).

  • Provide feedback to Teachers and Zone Managers in all areas of educational quality, including but not limited to:

    • Classroom environment and materials

    • Daily structure and routines

    • Positive guidance, classroom management, dealing with challenging behavior

    • Planning curriculum that is engaging, meaningful, developmentally appropriate, individualized and outcome-focused

    • Interaction strategies to support children’s language, cognitive and social development

    • Support for English Language Learners

    • Early literacy and mathematics learning

  • Work with Zone Managers to create and maintain quality improvement plans; identify and procure resources to support Zone Managers in successfully executing quality improvement.

  • Coach and support Head Teachers to serve as the education lead for their buildings.

  • Monitor implementation and quality of curriculum and assessment, including:

    • Review of lesson plans

    • Child observations and accuracy of analysis in Creative Curriculum

    • Student assessment and quality of evidence

    • Gold & Gold Plus outcomes

  • Model best practices for Teachers

  • Assist Zone Managers and Teachers in understanding child outcomes data and using it to plan and individualize.

  • Along with Data and Outcomes Specialist, track child outcomes and program quality assessment results on a classroom- and center-wide basis, analyze data and make program development recommendations to the Education Manager and Sr. Director of Head Start Operations.

  • Work with the Education Manager to develop, conduct or arrange training as needed, including professional development days, ongoing training, center- or team-specific training, and additional related training for parents, volunteers, or others. 

  • Support implementation of pilots and special initiatives related to curriculum, assessment, teacher training or other.

  • Conducts self in a mature professional manner in compliance with YMCA Baltimore County Head Start policies and procedures through behavior, appearance and attitude.

  • Respects confidentiality of sensitive matters.

  • Attends and actively participates in Early Head Start and Curriculum training to continue professional growth.

 

Qualifications:

  • Must obtain CPR and First Aid certificate.

  • Must obtain a valid criminal background check and employment reference check.

  • Must have reliable transportation.

  • Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

      Education and/or Experience:

  • High School Diploma or GED.

  • Bachelor Degree Early Childhood Development is preferred, related degree areas may be accepted.

  • Must have a minimum of  2 years experience working with infants, toddlers and two year old children.

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