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Head Start Program Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Head Start Program information

See California salary details

$29.1K

$77.2K

$135.2K

How much do head start program jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for head start program in California is $77,172.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,300.00 and $91,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by staff in a Head Start Program, and how are they typically addressed?

Staff in a Head Start Program often face challenges such as managing classrooms with diverse needs, engaging families from various backgrounds, and meeting federal and state compliance standards. These challenges are typically addressed through ongoing professional development, strong team collaboration, and access to resources like family liaisons and mental health consultants. Additionally, staff receive support from administrators and are encouraged to participate in regular training to stay current with best practices in early childhood education.

What is a Head Start Program?

A Head Start Program is a federally funded initiative in the United States that provides early childhood education, health, nutrition, and parent involvement services to low-income children and their families. The goal of the program is to help prepare young children, typically ages 3 to 5, for success in school and beyond by supporting their cognitive, social, and emotional development. Head Start programs are free for eligible families and often include comprehensive services such as health screenings, nutritional meals, and family support. The program also encourages strong family engagement and community partnerships. Services are delivered in a variety of settings, including centers, schools, and in some cases, homes.

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 management, and compliance with federal Head Start regulations, usually supported by a relevant degree and administrative experience. Familiarity with child assessment tools, data management systems, and state licensing requirements is crucial. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and interpersonal skills help foster a positive environment for staff, children, and families. These capabilities ensure effective program delivery, regulatory compliance, and improved outcomes for underserved children and communities.

What is the difference between Head Start Program vs Preschool Teacher?

AspectHead Start ProgramPreschool Teacher
Required CredentialsEarly childhood education certification or CDA, background checksEarly childhood education certification or CDA, background checks
Work EnvironmentHead Start centers, community settings, sometimes home visitsPreschools, childcare centers, private or public schools
Employer & Industry UsageFederal-funded program serving low-income familiesPrivate, public, or charter schools providing preschool education

While both roles focus on early childhood education, Head Start Program staff work within federally funded programs emphasizing comprehensive services for low-income children and families. Preschool Teachers typically work in various educational settings, focusing on classroom instruction. The main difference lies in program scope, funding, and target populations.

What cities in California are hiring for Head Start Program jobs? Cities in California with the most Head Start Program job openings:
Head Start Program jobs near you
Head Start - Program Assistant

Head Start - Program Assistant

Crystal Stairs

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$18 - $19.13/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Crystal Stairs, Inc.
Improving the Lives of Families through
Child Care Services, Research, and Advocacy
Crystal Stairs is committed to building and sustaining a diverse workforce and culture. As part of this commitment, Crystal Stairs does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of activities or operations.
Head Start - Program Assistant
100% Onsite - Location: Los Angeles, CA 90056
What We're Looking For:
We are seeking a Program Assistant who is responsible for the development and tracking of the information within the designated service area. This position will assist the assigned Supervisor in inputting data, generating accurate timely program reports and tracking of comprehensive services. He or she is responsible for supporting the designated manager in the overall implementation of program services.
EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES YOU SHOULD POSSESS:
  • High school diploma or equivalent GED. Three years office/clerical experience with increasing responsibility. Some college courses preferred.
  • Two years experience, demonstrated competency and working knowledge of computer office applications, such as MS Word, MS Excel or similar applications required, with database and/or graphics/page layout and design experience desired. Good typing and computer skills required.

Special Requirements
  • Must have reliable transportation and possess a valid California Driver License in good standing with DMV required; current liability insurance
  • Must meet State health requirements to include passing a physical examination as condition of employment, Live Scan, and TB clearance.

Total Package of Benefits
  • Medical/ Dental/ Vision - 95% paid by employer
  • Pet Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Voluntary Life and AD&D for Employee, Spouse and Children
  • 401k Matching Options
  • Flex Spending (Health Care and Dependent Care)
  • Mutual of Omaha (STD, Accident, & Critical Illness)
  • Generous Sick and Vacation Time
  • Paid Holidays + Paid Winter Break from 12/24 - 1/1 (for select positions)
  • Opportunity for Growth and Development
  • Robust Learning Management System offering the following continuing education units: PDC, HRCI, CEU, CPE, PDU, SHRM

Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for Employment in accordance with the Los Angeles Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act.
Crystal Stairs is committed to building and sustaining a fully vaccinated, diverse workforce and culture. As part of this commitment, Crystal Stairs provides equal opportunity in all of our employment practices, including selection, hiring, promotion, transfer, and compensation, to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to race, color, medical condition as defined by state law, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender, ethnic group identification, mental or physical disability, pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions, or any other legally protected status.
For more information about Crystal Stairs, please visit our website at:
All Head Start positions are implemented in accordance with the Head Start Performance Standards in each service area.

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