Early Care and Education Director

Job Title:             Early Care and Education Director
Program/Dept:        Early Care and Education
Reports To:             Chief Program Officer
FLSA Status:            Regular/Full-Time/Exempt
Probationary Period:    Ninety (90) days
Work Schedule:        40 hours/week
Salary Range:         Updated Annually
Work From Home Status:    Hybrid
 

GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The Early Care and Education Director provides strategic and operational leadership for early childhood programs, including Head Start, Early Head Start, and Childcare. This role ensures compliance with all applicable state and federal regulations and is responsible for developing and implementing systems and procedures to meet program mandates and quality standards.

The Director is responsible for ensuring the delivery of high-quality, comprehensive services that support the optimal development of children and the well-being of their families. This includes fostering a culture of continuous quality improvement and promoting innovative practices that enhance program effectiveness and outcomes.

The Director must demonstrate strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to foster positive, collaborative relationships with staff, children, families, and community partners.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree in Social or Human Services, Education, or a related field required.
• Minimum of five years of leadership, management, and supervisory experience.
• Strong knowledge of early childhood education principles, practices, and program standards.
• Experience managing state and federal contracts, including budget development and oversight.
• Proven ability in grant and proposal writing.
• Previous experience with Head Start or Early Head Start programs strongly preferred.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations, including Head Start/Early Head Start Program Performance Standards and Child Care Licensing requirements.
• Monitor program quality to ensure standards consistently exceed minimum requirements and support the delivery of high-quality, comprehensive services for children and families.
• Lead a culture of continuous quality improvement by implementing data-driven decision-making processes, evaluating program outcomes, and applying best practices to enhance service delivery.
• Encourage and support innovation in program design and service models to better meet the evolving needs of children, families, and communities.
• Review monthly financial and statistical reports to assess budget status and take proactive measures as needed.
• Prepare grant applications and annual budgets; research and pursue additional funding opportunities to support and expand services.
• Monitor and manage the program’s non-federal share (match) to ensure requirements are met; collaborate with staff, parents, and Policy Council to develop strategies for increasing contributions if needed.
• Submit required monthly reports in a timely and accurate manner.
• Supervise, coach, and evaluate direct staff; support their ongoing professional development and capacity to implement high-quality, family-centered services.
• Facilitate conflict resolution and promote open, consistent communication across all levels of the organization.
• Foster collaboration and coordination among early care and education programs and within the broader organization to ensure seamless service integration.
• Maintain strong communication with funding agencies and community partners to support program goals and strengthen partnerships.
• Represent the organization through participation in local, state, regional, and national meetings and conferences.
• Respond appropriately to emergency situations and address complaints in a timely and effective manner.
• Engage in collaborative planning, problem solving, and team-based decision-making to advance program excellence.
• Perform other duties as needed to support the overall success of the program.

OTHER QUALIFICATIONS

• Strong commitment to confidentiality and ethical standards.
• Effective communicator with strong collaboration and interpersonal skills.
• Exceptional organizational and time management abilities; capable of prioritizing and meeting deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Skilled in independent decision-making, problem-solving, and strategic planning.
• Flexible and adaptable, with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Familiarity with community resources and a strong understanding of the challenges faced by families experiencing poverty.
• Willingness to work flexible hours and travel as needed.
• Reliable transportation with required 100/300 liability insurance coverage.
• Physical ability to meet the demands of the position, including regular travel between sites and occasional lifting or other tasks.

COMMUNICATION SKILLS

• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with staff, families, volunteers, and community partners.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to follow and convey instructions accurately.
• Proficient in delivering training and presentations to both large and small groups.
• Capable of adapting communication style to diverse audiences and situations.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Head Start, Early Head Start, Childcare

EMPLOYMENT SCREENING

Valid Driver's License and insured vehicle (100/300 minimum coverage) for use on the job or acceptable alternative, driving record check, criminal record check, randomized drug screening.

Head Start, Early Head Start, Childcare, and Home Visiting Programs are also subject to the following: Head Start and child care licensing requires a criminal record check and finger printing to be completed prior to employment.  An initial physical examination record, including a TB screening must be obtained within 60 days of hire, updated every three years and kept on file with Human Resources.  If a TB screening indicates high risk, results of a TB test must be kept on file including any treatment received.  An initial driving record check will be conducted.  License information will also be submitted to the agency’s automobile insurance carrier. 

MISSION VISION & VALUES 

Our Mission: To reduce barriers to help clients improve their economic stability and well-being through education, advocacy and partnerships

Our Vision: To eliminate poverty

Our Values: Communication, Collaboration, Client-Focus, Accountability