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Head Start Program Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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

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

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

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

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 ...

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 ...

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Showing results 21-40

All 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 Aug 6, 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 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.

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, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,196 per year, or $37.6 per hour.

Head Start Teacher

Douglas-Cherokee Economic Authority Head Start/Early Head Start

Newport, TN • On-site

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description


About This Role

We are seeking a dedicated and caring professional to join our Head Start team. The ideal candidate will create a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment while supporting the growth and development of young children and fostering strong partnerships with families and the community.


What You'll Do
  • Create and maintain a safe, healthy, and organized classroom environment.
  • Plan and implement developmentally appropriate learning activities that support each child's individual needs and promote physical, intellectual, social, and emotional growth.
  • Observe, assess, document, and monitor children's progress and development.
  • Use positive guidance techniques to encourage appropriate behavior and classroom engagement.
  • Supervise and actively interact with children during all daily activities, both indoors and outdoors.
  • Build positive relationships with families through home visits, parent-teacher conferences, meetings, and ongoing communication.
  • Maintain required Head Start documentation, records, and reports in a timely manner.
  • Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development opportunities.
  • Lead and support classroom staff, substitutes, volunteers, and team members by fostering a collaborative and positive work environment.
  • Perform daily cleaning and maintenance duties to ensure a clean, safe, and welcoming indoor and outdoor learning environment.
  • Welcome and encourage family participation in classroom, home, and community learning activities.
  • Support family and community involvement through volunteer opportunities and contributions that help meet program requirements and strengthen services for children.
  • Demonstrate professionalism and compliance with agency policies, procedures, and assigned responsibilities.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned by program leadership.

What We're Looking For

  • Passion for working with young children and families.
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills.
  • Commitment to providing high-quality early childhood education.
  • Ability to maintain accurate records and meet program requirements.
  • Dedication to creating a positive, inclusive, and supportive learning environment.

Join our team and help children build a strong foundation for lifelong learning and success!


Requirements

Education Requirements

  • Degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE); or related degree.


Experience Requirements

  • Minimum of one year’s experience teaching preschool children.
  • Must obtain a pre-employment physical and screen for communicable diseases.
  • Must obtain First Aid and CPR and keep updated.
  • Must agree to a pre-employment background check.
  • Must have a valid Tennessee driver’s license and available transportation for work-related duties with mileage reimbursed.
  • Must show proof (as necessary) of auto liability insurance.
  • Demonstrate a willingness to continue professional development.

Benefits
  • Health Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Paid Leave
  • Sick Leave

About Us

Douglas-Cherokee Economic Authority, Inc. Head Start / Early Head Start Program serves more than 700 children ages 0-5 years in eight counties in East TN: Blount, Cocke, Grainger, Hamblen, Jefferson, Monroe, Sevier and Union. Children who attend Head Start participate in a variety of educational activities. They also receive support to access free medical and dental care, have healthy meals and snacks, and enjoy playing outdoors in a safe setting. Services are offered to meet the special needs of children with disabilities.

Our employees have access to:

· Up to 14 paid holidays per year

· Sick leave and Personal time

· Option to participate in State of Tennessee 401(k) savings plan

· Tennessee Consolidated Retirement System

· Group Health Insurance partially paid by the agency with other insurance products available.