Early Head Start Site Director: Lead & Develop Teams

Unified Vailsburg Service Organization (UVSO); Newark (NJ); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

The Site Director at Palm Street Development Center oversees day-to-day operations for Early Head Start, ensuring educational quality, compliance with Head Start standards, and licensing rules. You will supervise teachers and support staff while partnering with the Director of Education to maintain family engagement.

Lead program operations, monitor classrooms, and drive professional development to ensure consistent high-quality outcomes for children and families.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or related field required (Master’s preferred).
• Child Development Associate (CDA) or Infant/Toddler credential preferred.
• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in early childhood education, including supervisory experience.
• Knowledge of New Jersey childcare licensing regulations.
• Experience supervising and mentoring early childhood staff.
• Strong organizational, leadership, and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and early childhood data systems.

Responsibilities

• Provide daily leadership and oversight of all Early Head Start classrooms and program operations.
• Ensure the educational programming aligns with Head Start standards and school readiness goals.
• Monitor classroom environments for high-quality teaching and child development outcomes.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Supervise and support teaching and administrative staff at the Palm Street site.
• Conduct staff meetings, coaching, and performance evaluations.
• Support hiring, onboarding, and professional development plans.

Skills

Leadership

Supervisory skills

Communication

Organizational skills

Problem-solving

Microsoft Office

Data systems

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or related field

Master’s degree preferred

Child Development Associate (CDA) or Infant/Toddler credential preferred

Tools

Microsoft Office

Early childhood data systems

Job description

The Site Director at Palm Street Development Center oversees day-to-day operations for Early Head Start, ensuring educational quality, compliance with Head Start standards, and licensing rules. You will supervise teachers and support staff while partnering with the Director of Education to maintain family engagement.

Lead program operations, monitor classrooms, and drive professional development to ensure consistent high-quality outcomes for children and families.