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

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Head Start Program information

See Montclair, NJ salary details

$30.1K

$79.7K

$139.6K

How much do head start program jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for head start program in Montclair, NJ is $79,683.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,000.00 and $94,300.00 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?

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 near Montclair, NJ are hiring for Head Start Program jobs? Cities near Montclair, NJ with the most Head Start Program job openings:
Infographic showing various Head Start Program job openings in Montclair, NJ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 93% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,683 per year, or $38.3 per hour.

Early Head Start - Head Start Assistant Teacher

Northside Center for Child Development

Manhattan, NY โ€ข On-site

$39K - $45K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

JOB SUMMARY
The EHS Assistant Teacher assists in the planning and implementation of classroom activities for Early Head Start children. This role involves working closely with the lead teacher to support the developmental needs of children and engaging with families to foster a collaborative learning environment.
PRINCIPAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Assist in the Supervision of children.
  • Supervise the Planning and execution of a program that considers the social, developmental and health needs of the group, as well as the individual child.
  • Observe and record children's behavior and development.
  • Collaborating with Group Teacher to create developmentally appropriate weekly lesson plans.
  • Assist the Group Teacher in developing and maintaining a positive working relationship with families.
  • Participate in scheduled meetings with families, colleagues, and schools' interdisciplinary team.
  • Other related duties, as assigned, consistent with the above and including the fulfillment of the program.
  • Maintain Professional and Ethical Standards.
  • Maintain confidentiality in accordance with Agency policy and legal requirements.
  • Be honest, reliable, and dependable.
  • Respect and maintain rights and privacy of all staff, parents, and children.
  • Attend mandated training courses and meetings and seek out staff development opportunities.
  • Work as a team member with all staff and maintain a positive work ethic.
  • Act conscientiously in performing routine duties.

QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's or Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education preferred
  • Experience working with families and children aged from birth to five.
  • Knowledge of Creative Curriculum and Teaching Strategies Gold preferred
  • Assisting in the Supervision of children
  • Supervising the planning and execution of a program that considers the social, developmental and health needs of the group, as well as the individual child
  • Observe and record children's behavior and development
  • Collaborating with Group Teacher to create developmentally appropriate weekly lesson plans
  • Assisting the Group Teacher in developing and maintaining a positive working relationship with families
  • Participating in scheduled meetings with families, colleagues and schools' interdisciplinary team
  • Other related duties, as assigned, consistent with the above and including the fulfillment of the program
  • Maintain Professional and Ethical Standards
  • Maintain confidentiality in accordance with Agency policy and legal requirements.
  • Be honest, reliable and dependable.
  • Respect and maintain rights and privacy of all staff, parents, and children.
  • Attend mandated training courses and meetings and seek out staff development opportunities.
  • Work as a team member with all staff and maintain a positive work ethic.
  • Act conscientiously in performing routine duties

Knowledge and Skills
  • Ability to write using correct grammar, spelling and punctuation; and to organize documents accurately
  • Ability to effectively communicate with community members and groups, managers, regulatory agencies, and families both individually and in group settings.

COMPENSATION: Salary commensurate with experience. Northside offers a competitive salary and benefits package. $39,000 - $45,000 Depending on experience.
ABOUT NORTHSIDE
Northside Center for Child Development serves over 4,000 children annually through high-quality, outcomes-driven behavioral health, early childhood, and enrichment services. With over $30 million in annual funding, the organization provides children and their families with the support they need to overcome adversity, thrive, and pursue their dreams.
Northside has been a staple of the Harlem community since its founding in 1946 and a pioneer at the intersection of education and behavioral health for Black and Latino children. Several of its programs were the first in Harlem and established the standard of care for many social service agencies. Northside's founders, Doctors Kenneth, and Mamie Clark were psychologists whose breakthrough Black/White Doll Study was used as evidence in Brown v. Board of Education, which declared public school segregation unconstitutional. The philosophy behind this landmark decision, now on its 70th anniversary, continues to inspire Northside to create and drive innovative programs that focus on the strengths of families and the importance of children's self-esteem.
To apply with us, scan the code below or contact hr@northsidecenter.org.