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Head Start Program Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SCMCAA

Head Start Teacher

Ellsinore, MO · On-site

$18.65/hr

... directed by supervisor and as outlined in curriculum. * Responsible for home visits for each family and child to assist with understanding the goals of the Head Start program and the parent role in ...

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Head Start Program Director information

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$29.5K

$78.2K

$137K

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

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for head start program director in the United States is $78,196.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,000.00 and $92,500.00 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
Head Start Program Secretary

Head Start Program Secretary

Chester County Intermediate Unit

Coatesville, PA • On-site

$22.50 - $29.82/hr

Other

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Head Start Program Secretary

An anticipated full-time vacancy exists for a Head Start Program Secretary within the CCIU's Division of Student Services. This position will be located at Gordon Early Literacy Center in Coatesville. The Head Start Program Secretary is a service personnel position. The secretary person responds to the needs of the Head Start program and is knowledgeable of all facets of the program operation. This position reports directly to the Head Start Director who is responsible for supervision and evaluation.

Essential Job Responsibilities:

  • Maintain employee files ensuring all aspects of Head Start requirements are up-to-date, inclusive of all clearances and health forms
  • Assist with reception duties as required, including welcoming families, ensuring arrival and dismissal processes are followed when students arrive or depart from the main office, and maintaining the visitor sign-in logs
  • Maintain records of hourly staff timecard submission, including following up with employee when not submitted according to payroll deadlines
  • Responsible for developing and maintaining a system to ensure all program materials are ordered, received, and available to staff as needed
  • Obtain quotes, process purchase requisitions and ensures that they are completed in a timely manner
  • Assure that all supplies are ordered as needed when requested by content area specialists and supervisors
  • Track cost of supplies, monitoring usage to ensure cost effectiveness within the allocated budget
  • Responsible for timely maintenance of all office machinery as needed
  • Maintain petty cash funds and submit reconciliation to IU Business Office
  • Maintain accurate accounting of all program keys
  • Maintain files, including confidential information, as requested by Program Supervisor
  • Ensure thorough preparation and follow through of staff meetings
  • Book appropriate space
  • Print and copy agenda and associated materials
  • Prepare a sign-in sheet for each meeting and submit to human resources for training hours
  • Responsible for posting outgoing mail and replenishing funds for meter
  • Responsible for organizing fire, weather, and safety drills monthly at each non-district location
  • Maintain a binder of completed drills
  • Plan dates and times for buildings, provided by the 20th day of the preceding month
  • Responsible for election sheets for supplemental days and hours as requested by supervisor
  • Responsible for filling supply orders for all staff

Qualifications:

Education and Experience: High School Diploma required Prior experience in secretarial field required, 3+ years experience strongly preferred Familiarity with Microsoft Word, File Maker Pro, First Class & Microsoft Excel required Professional or Other Required Clearances: Current police, child abuse, and FBI fingerprint clearances within 1 year required Anticipated Salary Range (2026-2027 SY): Support Hay, Band 10, $22.50 - $29.82/hr. * Placement on band is based on years of direct experience in a comparable role. 260 day position, 7.5 hours per day, 5 days per week LB Equal Opportunity Employer Chester County Intermediate Unit is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Chester County Intermediate Unit ensures equal employment opportunities regardless of race, creed, gender, color, national origin, religion, age, sexual orientation or disability. Chester County Intermediate Unit has a policy of active recruitment of qualified minority teachers and non-certified employees. Any individual needing assistance in making an application for any opening should contact the Department of Human Resources at 484-237-5085.

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