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Head Start Program Jobs in Dover, NJ (NOW HIRING)

COMMUNITY OUTREACH WORKER

Newark, NJ ยท On-site

$19.75 - $25.75/hr

Early Childhood (Prenatal, Early Head Start, Head Start, and Pre-K); Healthy Homes (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, Weatherization, Lead Remediation/Abatement) ; and Community Empowerment ...

Family Partner

Newark, NJ ยท On-site

$20.50/hr

Early Childhood (Prenatal, Early Head Start, Head Start, and Pre-K); Healthy Homes (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, Weatherization, Lead Remediation/Abatement) ; and Community Empowerment ...

Showing results 21-40

Head Start Program information

See Dover, NJ salary details

$30.2K

$80.1K

$140.4K

How much do head start program jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for head start program in Dover, NJ is $80,116.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,300.00 and $94,800.00 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 Dover, NJ are hiring for Head Start Program jobs?

Cities near Dover, NJ with the most Head Start Program job openings:

Infographic showing various Head Start Program job openings in Dover, NJ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,116 per year, or $38.5 per hour.

Part Time Mental Health Consultant - Montclair Child Development Corporation

Mental Health Association

Montclair, NJ โ€ข On-site

$33/hr

Part-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

MHA promotes mental health and total wellness for individuals facing challenges associated with mental illness and addiction recovery. We increase community awareness while enhancing mental well-being through advocacy, education, prevention, treatment, and services.
MHA is seeking a Part-time Mental Health Consultant- Montclair Child Development Corporation to join ourteam! Be a part of the team that makes a difference in the lives of our consumers.
This is a Part-time position, 20 hours per week, flexible.
Qualifications: Master's degree in Social Work or counseling with a professional license (LSW, LAC, LCSW, LPC). Experience working with young children (birth to age 5) and families.Knowledge of early childhood development and trauma-informed practices.Strong communication, consultation, and training skills.Experience in a Head Start or early childhood education setting. Experience with behavioral assessment and intervention planning.Familiarity with community mental health systems and early intervention services.
Responsibilities:
  • Child & Classroom Support
    • Conduct classroom observations to assess social-emotional development and behavioral needs.
    • Collaborate with teachers to develop individualized behavior support strategies.
    • Promote inclusive practices and positive classroom management techniques.
    • Support early identification of developmental, behavioral, and mental health concerns.
    • Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings and child staffing discussions.
  • Family Engagement
  • Partner with families to address children's emotional and behavioral needs.
  • Provide parent education on child development, attachment, trauma, resilience, and positive discipline.
  • Assist families in accessing community mental health services and resources.
  • Maintain sensitive and respectful communication with families from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds.
  • Staff Consultation & Training
  • Provide reflective consultation and coaching to program staff.
  • Support staff in managing challenging behaviors and reducing burnout.
  • Deliver professional development trainings on topics such as:
    • Trauma-informed care
    • Social-emotional learning
    • De-escalation strategies
    • Stress management and staff wellness
    • Child behavior support
  • Program Compliance & Collaboration
  • Ensure services align with Head Start Performance Standards and state licensing requirements.
  • Maintain documentation of consultation activities, referrals, and follow-up services.
  • Collaborate with community agencies, therapists, school districts, and healthcare providers.
  • Participate in program planning, crisis response, and continuous quality improvement efforts.
  • Complies with mandated coursework for professional development through Relias Learning.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by the Senior Director of Clinical Services.
Base Hourly Rate: $33
Reports to:
Senior Director of Clinical Services
Fully paid medical coverage for eligible staff.
Generous 401(k) match.
Plentiful Paid Holidays, Vacation, Personal and Sick time.
MHAEM is a proud equal opportunity/affirmative action employer committed to attracting, retaining, and maximizing the performance of a diverse and inclusive workforce. It is MHAEM's policy to ensure equal employment opportunity without discrimination or harassment based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, national origin, marital or domestic/civil partnership status, genetic information, citizenship status, uniformed service member or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
EEO/AA M/F/M/V/D
Employee Rights under the FMLA