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

Lifesteps Inc

Medical Assistant

Beaver, PA · On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

... Head Start Program in Beaver Falls, PA as a health educator. Lifesteps is a non-profit human services organization which has been serving Western Pennsylvania for nearly 100 years by "helping ...

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All JobsHead Start Program JobsHead Start Program Jobs in Pittsburgh, PA

Head Start Program information

See Pittsburgh, PA salary details

$27.6K

$73.1K

$128K

How much do head start program jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for head start program in Pittsburgh, PA is $73,068.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,500.00 and $86,400.00 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 Pittsburgh, PA are hiring for Head Start Program jobs?

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

Head Start Program jobs near you
Infographic showing various Head Start Program job openings in Pittsburgh, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,068 per year, or $35.1 per hour.

Head Start Teacher Assistant North Gate Bellevue HS

Allegheny Intermediate Unit

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description


Job Title: Head Start Teacher Assistant
Job Summary
The Head Start Teacher Assistant works under the guidance of a Lead Teacher to support the academic, social, and emotional development of children aged 3 to 5. This role involves assisting in implementing educational activities, creating a safe and nurturing environment, and fostering relationships with children, families, and colleagues. The Teacher Assistant plays a critical role in providing the foundational skills necessary for children's success in kindergarten and beyond.
Key Responsibilities
  • Assist in Classroom Activities:
    • Support the Lead Teacher in planning and conducting classroom activities, lessons, and experiences that encourage exploration, learning, and development.
    • Help implement a curriculum that aligns with Head Start standards and meets children's individual developmental needs.
    • Use creative techniques to keep children engaged in educational activities.
  • Monitor and Support Child Development:
    • Observe and record children's progress, behaviors, and needs, providing input to teachers for assessments and individualized learning plans.
    • Address social, emotional, and cognitive needs of children through interaction, support, and encouragement.
  • Ensure a Safe and Healthy Environment:
    • Help maintain a clean, organized, and safe classroom environment.
    • Follow all health and safety protocols, including regular sanitization, health screenings, and promoting good hygiene among children.
  • Engage with Families:
    • Participate in parent-teacher conferences and meetings as needed to discuss children's progress and developmental milestones.
    • Maintain positive and open communication with families to strengthen the home-to-school connection.
  • Assist with Daily Routines:
    • Supervise children during meal times, bathroom breaks, nap times, and other daily routines.
    • Help children develop basic self-care skills, including toileting, handwashing, and dressing.
  • Collaborate with Team Members:
    • Work closely with other staff members, including the Lead Teacher, to ensure alignment and consistency in teaching practices.
    • Participate in professional development opportunities to improve skills and stay current with early childhood education standards.
Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED required; Associate degree in Early Childhood Education or related field preferred.
  • Minimum of a CDA credential or a state-awarded certificate that meets or exceeds the requirements for a CDA credential, are enrolled in a program that will lead to an associate or baccalaureate degree or, are enrolled in a CDA credential program to be completed within two years of the time of hire
  • Experience working with young children in an educational setting is highly preferred.
  • Familiarity with the Head Start program and its guidelines is a plus.
  • Strong communication, patience, and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with teachers, staff, and families.
  • Must meet state and federal guidelines for employment in a Head Start program, which may include background checks and health screenings.
Working Conditions
This position generally requires physical activity, including standing, bending, and interacting at children's eye level. The job may involve lifting young children or classroom supplies and managing an energetic group of children throughout the day.
Additional Requirements:
  1. Current Act 114, Act 34, Act 151 and NSOR Clearances required prior to an offer (Must be dated within 1 year of hire date).
  2. School Personnel Health Record (Form H511.340) must be completed and received by Human Resources prior to hire date.
  3. CPR and First Aid certification (or ability to obtain).

Working Conditions:
This position generally requires physical activity, including standing, bending, and interacting at children's eye level. The job may involve lifting young children or classroom supplies and managing an energetic group of children throughout the day.
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  1. Sitting for extended period of time
  2. Lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling 50 pounds
  3. Ability to kneel, crouch, bend and reach to retrieve and handle teaching materials and supplies
  4. Moving fingers and hands in a repetitive manner
  5. Ability to speak clearly and distinctly when communicating with limited English speaking customers
  6. Hearing clearly
  7. Adequate vision to perform duties

The information contained in this job description is for compliance with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and is not an exhaustive list of the duties performed for this position. Additional duties are performed by the individuals currently holding this position and additional duties may be assigned.
Disclaimer: The preceding description is not designed to be a complete list of all duties and responsibilities required of this position.
Reports To: Education Specialist
Department: Early Childhood Education
Position Schedule: 205 Day
Salary: $30,934.50 ($20.12/hour) Non-negotiable
Benefits: HSEA Contract
To Apply: Create an on-line application and upload a cover letter, resume, clearances, PDE Teaching Certificate (if applicable) and transcripts at the AIU Career Site.
Please send any questions to: recruitment@aiu3.net
The Allegheny Intermediate Unit is an equal opportunity education institution and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, handicap, or limited English proficiency in its educational programs, services, facilities, activities or employment practices as required by Title IX of the 1972 Educational Amendments, Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended, Section 504 Regulations of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1975, Section 204 Regulations of the 1984 Carl D. Perkins Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, or any other applicable federal or state statute.

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