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Head Start Program Director Jobs in Reno, NV (NOW HIRING)

Language Assistant

Reno, NV · On-site

$17.65 - $20/hr

... Education Director, collaborating closely with Language and Culture Coordinators. Your main ... Head Start Program, Child Care Program, Recreation facilities, Senior Center, Pow Wow Grounds ...

Infant Care Teacher

Kings Beach, CA · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

... program in conformance with the Head Start Performance Standards, Title 22 and Title 5 of the ... directed as a program requirement. * Attends all in-service trainings. * Responsible for ...

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Head Start Program Director information

See Reno, NV salary details

$29.4K

$78K

$136.6K

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

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for head start program director in Reno, NV is $77,966.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,800.00 and $92,200.00 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.
What are popular job titles related to Head Start Program Director jobs in Reno, NV? For Head Start Program Director jobs in Reno, NV, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Head Start Program Director jobs in Reno, NV look for? The top searched job categories for Head Start Program Director jobs in Reno, NV are:

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Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Description

POSITION TITLE: Cook (Full time 40 hrs/wk)

CLASSIFICATION:  Non-Exempt 

DEPARTMENT:  Head Start

SUPERVISOR: Head Start Administrator 

GRADE: NE5 $13.25 ($27,560.00) - $19.87 ($41,329.60)

Position Summary:

Under direct supervision the Cook is responsible for preparing, purchasing, storing and serving food in accordance with USDA/Nevada Department of Education guidelines. Maintains confidentiality of all privileged information.

Nothing

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

Provides training to parents and community about nutrition. 

Completes and maintains required food program reports. 

Takes meals census daily (records number of meals to staff, parents and children). 

Keeps accurate records for the Child Adult Care Food Program (CACFP). 

Ensures that food shopping is completed in a timely manner and within budget constraints.

Responsible for completing and submitting required nutrition forms to the Central Head Start Office by the required due date. 

Participates in all phases of the Head Start training program. 

Responsible for the Nutrition Component of the Center curriculum. 

Prepares snacks and meals in accordance with planned menus and USDA meal requirements. 

Purchases food within budgetary and meal requirements. 

Plans or adjusts menus to meet USDA meal requirements. 

Documents refrigerator/freezer temperatures daily. 

Completes nutritional assessments of each child and records the information in the child's file; makes referrals to the Programs Manager. 

Checks nutritional habits of the children. 

Keeps track of any allergies to specific foods. 

Tracks and interprets child growth charts. 

Communicates with parents about their children's nutritional needs. 

Assists with lesson planning in cooperation with the Center staff. 

Prepares and presents new food experiences to the children, emphasizing traditional Washoe foods as well as other cultural foods. 

Introduces new foods ant the Pyramid Food Chart concept. 

Guides the children to set and clean-up tables. Guides the children in sanitation and hand washing techniques. 

Guides the children with menu planning and meal preparation. 

Assists staff members in carrying out daily classroom activities under the direction of the Teacher. 

Responsible for the upkeep and cleanliness of the kitchen/dining area. 

Attends all center Parent Committee meetings and assists with the parent program. 

Obtains an annual physical and TB test. 

Provides appropriate substitute when absent from work.

Performs other duties as required.

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications:

High School Diploma or GED plus one year food service experience. 

Must possess and maintain a valid California or Nevada driver's license or capable of obtaining one within thirty-days (30) of employment. 

Must be able to be insurable by the Tribe's Driving Policy. 

Must be able to successfully pass a pre-employment drug/alcohol screen and background investigation.

Knowledge, Abilities, Skills, and Certifications:

Knowledge of traditional form of government and tribal customs and traditions. 

Knowledge of applicable federal, state, county, and local laws, regulations, and requirements.

Knowledge of how to prepare well-balanced and nutritious meals.

Knowledge of proper and safe food handling, storage, and disposal requirements.

Knowledge of business English, proper spelling, grammar, punctuation, and basic arithmetic.

Ability to interpret food service requirements of the USDA/Nevada State Department of Education.

Ability to communicate effectively in the English language both verbally and in writing.

Ability to establish and maintain professional relationships with individuals of varying social and cultural backgrounds and with co-workers at all levels.

Ability to safely operate various cooking equipment and kitchen appliances.

Ability to work extended hours and various work schedules.

Ability to work independently and meet strict time lines.

Ability to make solid decisions and exercise independent judgment.

Ability to demonstrate excellence in everything, and continually seek improvement in results.

Ability to prepare accurate, complete, and legible reports.

Ability to interpret applicable federal, state, county, and local laws, regulations, requirements, ordinances, and legislation.

Skill in preparing food for groups of people.

Skill in handling sharp knives, and other cutting utensils.

Skill in supervising, training, and evaluating assigned staff.

Certified Food Handler.

Certified in CPR and First Aid.

Physical Demands:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly is required to stand; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; talk or hear; and taste or smell. The employee frequently is required to walk; and sit. The employee occasionally is required to climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. 

Work Environment:

Work is generally performed in a kitchen environment with a moderate noise level. Evening, weekend, and/or holiday work may be required. 

The Washoe Tribe of Nevada & California requires a background check of each new hire for employment purposes. Therefore, all conditionally offered positions will be subject to the following:

  • Negative alcohol and drug screen
  • Meet requirements of Public Law 101-630
  • Obtain or possess a valid driver's license for either the state      of Nevada or California within 30 days
  • Must be insurable under the Washoe Tribe's driving policy 
  • Preference will be given to      qualified Native American IndiansÂ