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Head Start Program Director Jobs in Mobile, AL (NOW HIRING)

Mississippi State University

Office Associate

Lucedale, MS · On-site

$14.25 - $19.25/hr

MSU-Extension Head Start Programs - Hancock County Anticipated Appointment Date: October 2025 ... Questions about equal opportunity programs or compliance should be directed to the Office of Civil ...

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All JobsHead Start Program JobsHead Start Program Director JobsHead Start Program Director Jobs in Mobile, AL

Head Start Program Director information

See Mobile, AL salary details

$24.2K

$64.3K

$112.6K

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

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for head start program director in Mobile, AL is $64,270.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,600.00 and $76,000.00 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 Mobile, AL? For Head Start Program Director jobs in Mobile, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Head Start Program Director jobs in Mobile, AL look for? The top searched job categories for Head Start Program Director jobs in Mobile, AL are:
What cities near Mobile, AL are hiring for Head Start Program Director jobs? Cities near Mobile, AL 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 Mobile, AL 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 $64,270 per year, or $30.9 per hour.

Head Start Teacher

Community Action of South Mississippi

Lucedale, MS

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Description

Position Overview

To ensure the young children we serve have a solid foundation for life. To encourage the social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development of Head Start children and to attend to their safety and welfare. To promote family engagement in all aspects of the program. To meet requirements of Federal Head Start Performance Standards and any local, state and/or agency policies and procedures.


Physical Demands

Work involves frequent movements in the classroom and the facility. Work involves using repetitive motions of the wrists, hands and/or fingers while operating standard office equipment. Must be able to perceive the nature of sound at normal speaking levels with or without correction. Must be able to be active for extended periods of time without experiencing undue fatigue.


Must be able to lift children weighing 50 pounds or more as it may be required during emergencies or other unusual circumstances. Must be able to perform activities on the floor and outdoors with children, keeping pace with the energy level of the children. Must recognize hazards and dangerous situations and take appropriate action. Must be available to accompany children on field trips and assisting them on/off the bus and crossing the street.


Mental Demands

Must demonstrate good communication and speaking skills to receive and give information in person and by telephone. Must demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills. Must have the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.


Must have the ability to apply Early Childhood Development (focus on infant/toddler) theory in daily activities, and adapt to the individual needs of children.


Special Demands

Must possess superior customer service skills and professional etiquette. Must possess proficient knowledge and ability to use a computer (must be keyboard proficient) and other office technology (i.e. telephone, fax, etc.). 


Must have the ability to supervise and monitor children at all times to ensure a safe environment including the physical ability to monitor and move quickly in order to respond to children who are very active and may need restraint or redirection in order to ensure their safety or the safety of others.


Must have a valid drivers' license and a satisfactory driving record.

Requirements

Education

An associate, baccalaureate or advanced degree in early childhood education; an associate degree in a field related to early childhood education and coursework equivalent to a major relating to early childhood education, with experience teaching preschool-age children; OR 

A baccalaureate or advanced degree in any field and coursework equivalent to a major relating to early childhood education, with experience teaching preschool-age children; OR 

A baccalaureate degree in any field and has been admitted into the Teach For America program, passed a rigorous early childhood content exam, such as the Praxis II, participated in a Teach For America summer training institute that includes teaching preschool children and is receiving ongoing professional development and support from Teach For America's professional staff.

NOTE: Transcripts are required to validate educational requirements.


Experience

Must have a minimum of 6 months experience working with infants and toddlers in a daycare setting.


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