Center Operations Lead — Early Childhood Programs

Community Action Agencies; Battle Creek (MI); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Community Action Agency South Central Michigan is seeking a Program Operations & Compliance professional to support the Center Manager in daily operations across Head Start, Early Head Start, and GSRP programs. Responsibilities include ensuring regulatory compliance, maintaining program standards, and coordinating administrative tasks, data management, and family engagement.

This role emphasizes strong leadership, collaboration with staff, and maintaining accurate records, timesheets, and

Qualifications

• Associate's degree in early childhood education or related field required.
• 1–2 years of progressive experience in supporting Head Start or similar programs.
• Strong leadership, teamwork, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications; experience with data systems (ChildPlus) preferred.
• Commitment to serving diverse populations and maintaining confidentiality.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Center Manager with the day-to-day operation of the center.
• Assist the Center Manager in providing daily supervision, guidance, and support to center staff.
• Maintain regular communication with classroom and center staff.
• Assist in completing classroom observations and program monitoring activities.
• Assist with internal investigations as assigned.
• In the absence of the Center Manager, ensure accurate submission of timesheets.
• Support enrollment and recruitment for Head Start, Early Head Start, and GSRP.
• Monitor and support child transition activities and family engagement.

Skills

Leadership & team-building

Communication skills

Organization & time management

Discretion & confidentiality

Stakeholder collaboration

Problem solving

Education

Associate's degree in early childhood education or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

ChildPlus data systems

Job description

Community Action Agency South Central Michigan is seeking a Program Operations & Compliance professional to support the Center Manager in daily operations across Head Start, Early Head Start, and GSRP programs. Responsibilities include ensuring regulatory compliance, maintaining program standards, and coordinating administrative tasks, data management, and family engagement.

This role emphasizes strong leadership, collaboration with staff, and maintaining accurate records, timesheets, and