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Head Start Program Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SCMCAA

Head Start Teacher

Ellsinore, MO · On-site

$18.65/hr

This responsibility includes setting up classrooms and developing and implementing educational programs. The Head Start Teacher will work together with the Head Start Bus Driver to provide safe ...

SCMCAA

Head Start Teacher

Doniphan, MO · On-site

$18.65/hr

This responsibility includes setting up classrooms and developing and implementing educational programs. The Head Start Teacher will work together with the Head Start Bus Driver to provide safe ...

SCMCAA

Head Start Teacher

Salem, MO · On-site

$18.65/hr

This responsibility includes setting up classrooms and developing and implementing educational programs. The Head Start Teacher will work together with the Head Start Bus Driver to provide safe ...

SCMCAA

Head Start Teacher

Ellington, MO · On-site

$18.65/hr

This responsibility includes setting up classrooms and developing and implementing educational programs. The Head Start Teacher will work together with the Head Start Bus Driver to provide safe ...

SCMCAA

Head Start Teacher

Poplar Bluff, MO · On-site

$18.65/hr

This responsibility includes setting up classrooms and developing and implementing educational programs. The Head Start Teacher will work together with the Head Start Bus Driver to provide safe ...

SCMCAA

Head Start Teacher

Neelyville, MO · On-site

$18.65/hr

This responsibility includes setting up classrooms and developing and implementing educational programs. The Head Start Teacher will work together with the Head Start Bus Driver to provide safe ...

SCMCAA

Head Start Teacher

Winona, MO · On-site

$18.65/hr

This responsibility includes setting up classrooms and developing and implementing educational programs. The Head Start Teacher will work together with the Head Start Bus Driver to provide safe ...

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All JobsEducation JobsPreschool JobsPreschool Director JobsHead Start Program Jobs

Head Start Program information

See salary details

$29.5K

$78.2K

$137K

How much do head start program jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for head start program in the United States is $78,196.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,000.00 and $92,500.00 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.
More about Head Start Program jobs

What cities are hiring for Head Start Program jobs?

Cities with the most Head Start Program job openings:

What states have the most Head Start Program jobs?

States with the most job openings for Head Start Program jobs include:

Head Start Program jobs near you
Infographic showing various Head Start Program job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,196 per year, or $37.6 per hour.

Head Start Director

Coeur D Alene, ID

North Idaho College
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about North Idaho Collegeexternal

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Head Start Director

Apply Now Job no: 494028
Work type: Full-time Staff
Location: Coeur d'Alene
Categories: Administration, Management, Head Start, Early Childhood Education
Hiring range: $74,586 - $85,849

Lead a mission-driven program that makes a lasting difference for children and families across North Idaho. As NIC's Head Start Director, this position provides vision, leadership, and strategic direction for a comprehensive early childhood program while ensuring services meet the needs of children, families, and communities. The role oversees program planning, implementation, evaluation, and continuous improvement while maintaining compliance with Head Start Program Performance Standards, federal regulations, and college policies.

Key responsibilities include guiding program leaders through mentoring, professional development, and performance management; overseeing program operations, financial performance, facilities, and outcomes; and leading annual grant applications, five-year goals, community assessments, self-assessments, and corrective action efforts. The Director works closely with the Policy Council and Board of Trustees, providing information and seeking appropriate approvals while ensuring accountability at all levels of the program. Strong community engagement is also central to the role, with opportunities to build partnerships with families, staff, community leaders, service providers, funding sources, and other stakeholders to strengthen services and advocate for program participants.

The ideal candidate is a collaborative, strategic leader with strong organizational, communication, and relationship-building skills and the ability to bring diverse perspectives together around shared goals. Sound judgment, professional integrity, and the ability to navigate complex regulatory, financial, and operational requirements are essential. A commitment to early childhood development, family services, continuous improvement, and quality programming will be key to success in this role. If this sounds like you, apply today!

Enjoy excellent benefits, including retirement
7 personal days per year 
11 sick days per year
9 paid holidays
Tuition assistance

Job Description linked below: (some job boards may not include active links so please click Apply Now on the NIC website or go to www.nic.edu/jobs to see full details); 

 Director Job Description.docx

Minimum Qualifications
Education:
Level I: Bachelors degree in educational administration, business administration, early childhood education, early childhood special education, adult education, health services, social work, or organizational management.
Level II: Master's degree in educational administration, business administration, early childhood education, early childhood special education, adult education, health services, social work, or organizational management.
Experience:
Minimum three years of progressively responsible supervisory/management positions including experience working with boards and advisory committees.
Experience planning, developing, and conducting professional development.
Experience in strategic planning and project management.

Required License and/or Certifications:
Register with Idaho STARS and participate in the professional development system.
Meet all training and certification requirements for child care licensing and Head Start Program Performance Standards.
Pass an enhanced background check including fingerprinting, as required by Head Start Program Performance Standards and Child Care Licensing requirements, prior to first day of work.

Starting pay:
Level 1 - $74,586
Level 2 - $85,849

Work Site Location: Head Start - Coeur d'Alene
Work Schedule: full-time 94% FTE, July through June

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of background check and proof of degree if required for this position. 

Application materials include:  resume, cover letter, and unofficial transcripts 

Applications ONLY accepted through the North Idaho College Website!

Advertised: August 12, 2026 Pacific Daylight Time
Applications close: September 04, 2026 11:55 PM Pacific Daylight Time

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