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Head Start Program Jobs in Baltimore, MD (NOW HIRING)

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Head Start Program information

See Baltimore, MD salary details

$29.3K

$77.7K

$136.1K

How much do head start program jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for head start program in Baltimore, MD is $77,698.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,700.00 and $91,900.00 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 Baltimore, MD are hiring for Head Start Program jobs?

Cities near Baltimore, MD with the most Head Start Program job openings:

Head Start Program jobs near you
Infographic showing various Head Start Program job openings in Baltimore, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,698 per year, or $37.4 per hour.

Early Learning Coach - Baltimore County Early Head Start

ymaryland

Halethorpe, MD

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY: 

This position serves as Coach for the Baltimore County  Early Head Start program.  This position is chiefly responsible for supporting educational quality, Curriculum implementation and positive child outcomes throughout the program, and performs other tasks as needed.  The Early Learning Coach works under the supervision of the Education Manager and collaborates with Zone Managers, teachers, and other staff in the Early Head Start program to ensure that outcomes are achieved for children of all abilities according to goals of Head Start Performance Standards. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 

The Early Head Start Early Learning Coach will need to perform the following responsibilities to achieve the key outcomes listed above:

Support For Educational Quality & Positive Child Outcomes:

  • Conduct monthly classroom observations in each center and classroom, both informally and formally (utilizing our program systems and tools).

  • Provide feedback to Teachers and Zone Managers in all areas of educational quality, including but not limited to:

    • Classroom environment and materials

    • Daily structure and routines

    • Positive guidance, classroom management, dealing with challenging behavior

    • Planning curriculum that is engaging, meaningful, developmentally appropriate, individualized and outcome-focused

    • Interaction strategies to support children’s language, cognitive and social development

    • Support for English Language Learners

    • Early literacy and mathematics learning

  • Work with Zone Managers to create and maintain quality improvement plans; identify and procure resources to support Zone Managers in successfully executing quality improvement.

  • Coach and support Head Teachers to serve as the education lead for their buildings.

  • Monitor implementation and quality of curriculum and assessment, including:

    • Review of lesson plans

    • Child observations and accuracy of analysis in Creative Curriculum

    • Student assessment and quality of evidence

    • Gold & Gold Plus outcomes

  • Model best practices for Teachers

  • Assist Zone Managers and Teachers in understanding child outcomes data and using it to plan and individualize.

  • Along with Data and Outcomes Specialist, track child outcomes and program quality assessment results on a classroom- and center-wide basis, analyze data and make program development recommendations to the Education Manager and Sr. Director of Head Start Operations.

  • Work with the Education Manager to develop, conduct or arrange training as needed, including professional development days, ongoing training, center- or team-specific training, and additional related training for parents, volunteers, or others. 

  • Support implementation of pilots and special initiatives related to curriculum, assessment, teacher training or other.

  • Conducts self in a mature professional manner in compliance with YMCA Baltimore County Head Start policies and procedures through behavior, appearance and attitude.

  • Respects confidentiality of sensitive matters.

  • Attends and actively participates in Early Head Start and Curriculum training to continue professional growth.

 

Qualifications:

  • Must obtain CPR and First Aid certificate.

  • Must obtain a valid criminal background check and employment reference check.

  • Must have reliable transportation.

  • Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

      Education and/or Experience:

  • High School Diploma or GED.

  • Bachelor Degree Early Childhood Development is preferred, related degree areas may be accepted.

  • Must have a minimum of  2 years experience working with infants, toddlers and two year old children.

Apply