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Head Start Program Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Grand Central Bakery

Head of People

Seattle, WA · On-site

$150K/yr

The Head of People is responsible for developing and leading human resources strategy in alignment ... programs, and initiatives that drive organizational performance and growth. Salary: $150,000 ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsHead Start Program JobsHead Start Program Jobs in Portland, OR

Head Start Program information

See Portland, OR salary details

$31.3K

$82.9K

$145.3K

How much do head start program jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for head start program in Portland, OR is $82,927.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,200.00 and $98,100.00 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 Portland, OR are hiring for Head Start Program jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Head Start Program job openings:
Head Start Program jobs near you
Infographic showing various Head Start Program job openings in Portland, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,927 per year, or $39.9 per hour.

Enrollment Assistant, Duration (Spanish Required) (Mar - Oct)

Community Action Organization

Hillsboro, OR • On-site

$18.02 - $19.82/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Closing Date:

7/31/26

*Note: This is a two-part application. Please check your email for follow-up messages to complete the second stage, especially if you are applying through Indeed. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Job Title:

Enrollment Assistant

Company Background:

Community Action is a non-profit organization that provides critical services to low-income families in the areas of housing, homeless services, economic empowerment, family development, and early childhood care and education. Community Action leads the way to eliminate conditions of poverty and create opportunities for people in the Washington County area. Be the change you want!

Special Note on Central Background Registry Requirement:

In order to be offered any position within our Head Start program, you must be currently enrolled in Oregon's Central Background Registry. If you are not currently enrolled, you may still be considered for this position, but no offer of employment may be extended to you until this requirement has been completed. For information on how to enroll in Oregon's Central Background Registry, please visit www.childcareinoregon.org or call the Office of Child Care at 1.800.556.6616.

Job Position Description:

Are you a compassionate and resourceful individual dedicated to helping families thrive? We're seeking an Enrollment Assistant to play a key role in supporting children and families by managing enrollment, eligibility, and data systems for Head Start and Early Head Start programs. This position combines strong administrative expertise, community collaboration, and compliance-focused work to ensure families are served efficiently, respectfully, and in accordance with federal and state standards. The hiring range for this position is from $18.02 to $19.82 per hour, depending on qualifications.

Abbreviated Duties List:

  • Provide daily administrative support to ERSEA Supervisor by providing prompt, accurate and effective administrative support including, but not limited to, composing, and sending written and electronic correspondence in an accurate and timely manner, routing telephone calls and performing word processing functions.
  • Conduct eligibility interviews with participants to ensure complete and correct information on the Head Start Application.
  • Perform data entry and information management in Child Plus, Service Point and Google Sheets.
  • Document all communication regarding application in the participant record.
  • Maintain waitlists for accurate selection of participants.
  • Attend recruitment events as assigned.

Abbreviated Requirements:

  • Minimum of a High School Diploma/equivalent with some college coursework or skill certifications in a related field in addition to at least three years of administrative support experience providing complex support to projects and/or upper management personnel in a non-profit or non-manufacturing environment. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
  • Advanced level of proficiency in technology tools such as Microsoft Office applications, databases, spreadsheets (including formulas and tables), charting, etc.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Bilingual English/Spanish written and verbal.
  • Must be able to successfully pass applicable background and Oregon Central Background Registry checks prior to new hire processing and beginning actual employment.
  • Requires a valid Oregon driver's license, proof of auto insurance for private vehicle, and access to reliable transportation.

What Will Make You Stand Out:

  • Associate degree or higher.
  • Experience with and/or knowledge of social service systems or non-profit organizations.

Top Benefits or Perks:

  • Comprehensive insurance benefits, including free dental and 90% of your medical premiums covered by the employer for single coverage plans
  • Bilingual Pay Program
  • 403(b) Retirement Plan with 3% employer match
  • Generous time off benefits with paid vacation, paid sick days, and 13 holidays!

How to Apply: Apply online directly at https://caowash.applicantpro.com/jobs/. The full job description and additional job details can be found there. Physical applications are also accepted at any of our Multi-Service Center locations.

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