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Head Start Program Jobs in Atlanta, GA (NOW HIRING)

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Head Start Program information

See Atlanta, GA salary details

$28.5K

$75.7K

$132.6K

How much do head start program jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for head start program in Atlanta, GA is $75,668.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,300.00 and $89,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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?

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 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 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 qualifications do you need to be a Head Start Program teacher?

A Head Start Program teacher typically needs a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent, with many programs requiring an associate's or bachelor's degree in early childhood education or a related field. State licensing or certification requirements may also apply, and experience working with young children is often preferred.

Will Head Start Program employees get paid?

Yes, employees of the Head Start Program are typically paid for their work, which may include roles such as teachers, family service workers, and administrative staff. Compensation varies based on position, experience, and funding, and employees often need relevant certifications or qualifications. The program generally offers a regular schedule with pay periods consistent with other employment standards.

What cities near Atlanta, GA are hiring for Head Start Program jobs?

Cities near Atlanta, GA with the most Head Start Program job openings:

Infographic showing various Head Start Program job openings in Atlanta, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,668 per year, or $36.4 per hour.

Head Start Teacher Assistant (All Locations)

YMCA OF METRO ATLANTA

Atlanta, GA • On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


YMCA Of Metro Atlanta rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

648th of 777 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

As a thought-leader and best-in-class provider in education, wellness, youth development, and community-building, The YMCA of Metro Atlanta is one of the oldest and most essential non-profits serving in Atlanta. Today, we're looking for you to join us as we carry out our mission to positively impact lives and communities across the state.
At the Y, we're an association of like-minded people (staff, volunteers, and members), on the forefront of a movement to ensure that everyone -- especially children -- experience an equal opportunity to reach their full potential. In the course of a year, we provide more than 3,000 children, ages 6 weeks through Pre-K with high-quality literacy and STEAM-infused learning; give 58,000 youth and teens access to sports, aquatics, day and resident camps, teen leadership development programs, and employment opportunities; provide over 200,000 members with programs, services, and facilities to enjoy connection and maintain wellness regardless of age; and engage over 25,000 volunteers and donors from across Atlanta to share in the gift of supporting their communities.
NATURE AND SCOPE:
Under the supervision of the Center Manager/Director, the Head Start Teacher Assistant is responsible for working cooperatively with the Head Start Teacher in planning and conducting learning experiences and activities and assists in the day-to-day management of an assigned classroom.
RESPONSIBILITIES (including, but not limited to):
  • Organize classroom space into functional areas (interest centers) in collaboration with the teacher.
  • Maintain a clean and healthy classroom environment.
  • Maintain a safe environment - indoor and outdoor.
  • Keep classroom arranged in an orderly manner and materials readily accessible to the children.
  • Provide for constant supervision of children during all activities - indoors and outdoors.
  • Observe physical conditions of children and makes referrals to teacher when necessary.
  • Makes observation and assess children in each developmental area using the designated developmental screening and on-going assessment process.
  • Refer children with suspected problems to teacher.
  • Provide input into the evaluation of each child's progress on an on-going basis.
  • In collaboration with the teacher, prepare in advance lesson plans, materials and environment that are organized, interactive, appropriate, clean, safe and hands on.
  • Follow daily schedule in conducting activities that are appropriate for the individual developmental levels of all children.
  • In the absence of the teacher, assume primary responsibility for classroom management.
  • Provide a variety of art media and allows for creative expressions.
  • Display children's work at eye level in the classroom, hallway, etc.
  • Conduct individual, small, and large group activities.
  • Present activities or concepts in sequential order.
  • Plan and participate in the provision of a balanced program of open learning and structured activities.
  • Communicate to the teacher the need for additional supplies.
  • Use available community resources and field trips for classroom enrichment.
  • Make home visits and conducts parent teacher conferences during the school year.
  • Establish classroom rules with teachers that are appropriate for age level of the child.
  • Maintain order in the classroom using positive approaches to behavioral management.
  • Provide for smooth transition from one activity to another activity.
  • Record and total attendance accurately in the roll book daily.
  • Submit the accurate attendance and other applicable reports.
  • Submit a copy of the page form the roll book with tabulated attendance for the month prior to the third day of the following month.
  • Count, record, and submit accurate meal count reports daily after each meal for the number of children eating to the food service staff.
  • Attend and participate in team, site, and agency required meetings, trainings, professional development, and continuing education.
  • Participate in family style meal service, modeling good nutrition and proper social skills.
  • Ensure that site-appropriate health, safety, classroom organization, classroom aesthetic and sanitation guidelines are followed.
  • Follow all mandatory reporting of suspected abuse, unsafe conditions, repair needs, complaints, accidents, and injuries.

REQUIREMENTS:
  • Child Development Associate (CDA)
  • Excellent verbal/written communication skills
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee must be able to perform physical requirements, including, but not limited to, kneel, bend, squat, lift, push, pull, and carry objects or children up to 50 lbs.

PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS:
  • Child Development Associate Credential (CDA); Associate degree in early childhood education, or a combination of education and experience teaching preschool aged children

Employment and Benefits package for this job posting is offered through Early Childhood Development Co., LLC, whose sole managing member is the YMCA of Metropolitan Atlanta, Inc.
Employment Requirement:
  • Ability to pass a pre-employment background check including Criminal Record check, Drug Screening and motor vehicle record (MVR) according to company policy.
  • Must be legally eligible to work in the US without current or future sponsorship.

This job posting is subject to change at any time.
The YMCA of Metropolitan Atlanta offers excellent benefits and career opportunities as part of our culture of excellence. The opportunities to serve are vast, and we're looking for like minded people, who share our values of CARING, HONESTY, RESPECT, and RESPONSIBILITY to join us and do their best work.
The YMCA of Metropolitan Atlanta does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by law.
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