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The Head Start Assistant Center Director supports the Center Director in the overall management, administration, and operation of the Head Start center. This position assists with ensuring high-quality comprehensive services are delivered to children and families in accordance with Head Start Program Performance Standards, federal and state regulations, licensing requirements, and agency policies.

The Assistant Director provides leadership to center staff, supports family engagement efforts, monitors program compliance, and helps maintain a safe, nurturing, and effective learning environment that promotes school readiness. The Assistant Director serves as the Center Director's designee in their absence.

Program Operations & Leadership

• Assist with the daily management and operation of the Head Start center.
• Support implementation of Head Start program goals, policies, and procedures.
• Monitor compliance with Head Start Performance Standards, state licensing regulations, and agency requirements.
• Assist with maintaining required records, reports, and documentation.
• Support continuous quality improvement initiatives and program monitoring activities.
• Serve as acting Center Director when designated.

Staff Support & Supervision

• Assist with supervision of teachers, teacher assistants, family service staff, and support personnel.
• Provide coaching, mentoring, and ongoing support and coverage to staff.
• Participate in staff evaluations and performance improvement efforts.
• Help coordinate professional development and training opportunities.
• Promote a positive, collaborative, and accountable work environment.

Education & Child Development

• Support implementation of developmentally appropriate curriculum and classroom practices.
• Conduct classroom observations and provide feedback to teaching staff.
• Monitor children's developmental screenings, assessments, and individualized service plans.
• Collaborate with education staff to ensure high-quality learning environments and school readiness outcomes.

Family & Community Engagement

• Support family engagement activities and parent involvement initiatives.
• Foster positive relationships with children, families, and community partners.
• Assist families in accessing community resources and support services.
• Participate in parent meetings, events, and center activities.

Health, Safety & Compliance

• Help ensure compliance with health, safety, nutrition, sanitation, and emergency preparedness requirements.
• Monitor attendance, enrollment, and eligibility documentation.
• Support incident reporting, corrective action plans, and compliance reviews.
• Assist with maintaining a safe and secure environment for children and staff.

Administrative & Fiscal Support

• Assist the Center Director with budget monitoring and resource management.
• Monitor inventory and procurement of classroom and center supplies.
• Support facility oversight and maintenance coordination.
• Participate in audits, monitoring visits, licensing inspections, and program reviews.

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or related field (Psychology, Child Life, Elementary Education, Nursing, Speech therapy, Occupational Therapy, Art Therapy, Counseling and Human Services)
• Master's degree preferred.

Experience

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in early childhood education or child development programs.
• At least 1-2 years of supervisory, lead teacher, coaching, or leadership experience preferred.
• Experience working in a Head Start or federally funded early childhood program strongly preferred.

Certifications & Requirements

• CPR and First Aid certification (or ability to obtain upon hire).
• Successful completion of required background checks and child abuse registry clearances.
• Knowledge of Head Start Program Performance Standards and state licensing regulations preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Knowledge of child development principles and best practices in early childhood education.
• Ability to coach and support staff in achieving program goals.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and electronic recordkeeping systems.
• Commitment to serving children and families from diverse backgrounds.