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Head Start Program Jobs in Erie, PA (NOW HIRING)

Looking to get a head start on your work day and still have daylight left to enjoy your hobbies ... Highschool diploma program * ESL classes * Health insurance (must meet eligibility requirements)

Looking to get a head start on your work day and still have daylight left to enjoy your hobbies ... Highschool diploma program * ESL classes * Health insurance (must meet eligibility requirements)

Looking to get a head start on your work day and still have daylight left to enjoy your hobbies ... Highschool diploma program * ESL classes * Health insurance (must meet eligibility requirements)

Looking to get a head start on your work day and still have daylight left to enjoy your hobbies ... Highschool diploma program * ESL classes * Health insurance (must meet eligibility requirements)

Looking to get a head start on your work day and still have daylight left to enjoy your hobbies ... Highschool diploma program * ESL classes * Health insurance (must meet eligibility requirements)

Looking to get a head start on your work day and still have daylight left to enjoy your hobbies ... Highschool diploma program * ESL classes * Health insurance (must meet eligibility requirements)

Head Start Program information

See Erie, PA salary details

$28.6K

$75.8K

$132.7K

How much do head start program jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for head start program in Erie, PA is $75,759.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,300.00 and $89,600.00 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 Erie, PA are hiring for Head Start Program jobs?

Cities near Erie, PA with the most Head Start Program job openings:

Infographic showing various Head Start Program job openings in Erie, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,759 per year, or $36.4 per hour.

Opening Crew Member

Girard, PA • On-site


McDonald's
Food Services and Drinking Places • 10K+ employees

5.1

Company rating: 5.1 out of 10

Based on 11,105 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

60th of 107 rated fast food restaurants

Free food

Recommended by students

Respectful managers


$12/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Description:
Are you an early bird? Looking to get a head start on your work day and still have daylight left to enjoy your hobbies? Your search is over. We're hiring NOW for opening crew members! Our opening shift begins between 4 and 5 a.m.
But what, you may ask, does an opening McDonald's employee do? Some tasks that all of our employees do on the daily include, but are not limited to:
  • Set up the restaurant for success by firing up equipment and making sure everything is in it's place and ready to go!
  • Prepping products like fresh produce to ensure the restaurant team has everything they need to take care of customers
  • Forming connections with your guests by helping them start their day right with fresh brewed coffee, tea, or McCafe beverages
  • Help customers order their favorite McDonald's meals
  • Prepare all of McDonald's World Famous food
  • Partner with other Crew and Managers to meet daily goals and have fun
  • Keep the restaurant looking fantastic

Benefits include:
  • Starting wage of $12.00
  • Accrued PTO
  • Discounted employee meals
  • Free uniforms
  • Archways to Opportunity-college tuition reimbursement up to $2,500/ year
  • Highschool diploma program
  • ESL classes
  • Health insurance (must meet eligibility requirements)
  • Aflac (must meet eligibility requirements)
  • 401k (must meet eligibility requirements)

See a day in the life of a Crew Team Member at McDonald's
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DiaN61vWY3A&feature=youtu.be
Requirements:
All you'll need is an outstanding attitude, willingness to learn and grow and the capability to excel in a fast-paced, team environment. We'll teach you the rest. For job openings on your schedule - part time or full time - give us a try. You must be 16 years of age or older to work as a Crew Member at McDonald's.
Additional Info:
This job posting contains some information about what it is like to work in a McDonald's restaurant, but it is not a complete job description. People who work in a McDonald's restaurant perform a number of different tasks every day, and this posting does not list all of the essential functions of this job.
By applying to this position, I understand that I am applying to work at a restaurant that is owned and operated by an independent franchisee, not McDonald's USA. I understand that this franchisee is a separate company and a separate employer from McDonald's USA. Any information I provide in this application will be submitted only to the independent franchisee, who is the only company responsible for employment matters at this restaurant. I recognize that the independent franchisee alone will make all decisions concerning employment matters, including hiring, firing, discipline, supervision, staffing and scheduling. By applying for a job at a franchisee operated restaurant, I understand that the information I provide will be forwarded to the franchisee organization in order for that organization to reach out to me and process and evaluate my application. I acknowledge that McDonald's USA will not receive a copy of my employment application and will have no involvement in any employment decisions regarding me, including whether I receive an interview or whether I am hired to work for the franchisee. I understand that I need to contact the franchise organization for information about its privacy practices.

McDonald's logo

About McDonald's

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

What began as a small drive-in restaurant in San Bernardino, California and has grown into an American icon that proudly serves 63 million customers every day around the globe. While much has changed over the last six decades, Ray Kroc's original commitment to Quality, Service, Cleanliness and Value has endured and made McDonald's a trusted favorite for over 65 years.

Industry

Food services and drinking places and restaurants

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US


What McDonald's employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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