Area Manager - Head Start
NewBe an early applicantAbout NEMCSA
At NEMCSA, we help children, families, and communities thrive. As a nonprofit Community Action Agency serving Northeast Michigan, we're committed to creating opportunities, supporting self-sufficiency, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of those facing economic hardship. We're also proud to be recognized as a Detroit Free Press Top Workplace, reflecting our commitment to a positive culture, supportive teams, and meaningful work.
What You’ll Love About Us:
- To keep you healthy: Medical/Rx, Vision, and Dental insurance with employee coverage at no cost.
- To help prepare you for the future: Generous employer 401(k) contributions, plus Life and Disability Insurance.
- Flexibility: We value work-life balance and offer flexibility whenever possible.
- Time for what matters: 10+ paid holidays each year, generous vacation time, and sick leave benefits.
- Student Loan Forgiveness Opportunities: Employment with NEMCSA may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program.
What You'll Do
As a Head Start Area Manager, you'll provide leadership and support for Head Start and other early childhood programs across a designated service area. You'll oversee daily operations, guide and develop staff, build strong partnerships with families and community organizations, and help ensure children receive high-quality early learning experiences that prepare them for future success.
In this role, you will:
- Lead and support the successful operation of Head Start and early childhood programs.
- Recruit, supervise, coach, and develop teachers, home visitors, family service staff, and other program team members.
- Ensure compliance with Head Start Performance Standards and state and federal requirements.
- Monitor program quality, child outcomes, and progress toward school readiness goals.
- Partner with families to encourage engagement and support positive outcomes for children.
- Build relationships with schools, community organizations, and local service providers.
- Oversee program resources, budgets, data systems, and reporting requirements.
- Support inclusive services for children of all abilities and coordinate disability services as needed.
- Promote continuous improvement through staff training, coaching, and professional development.
Most importantly, you'll help ensure children, families, and communities have access to high-quality services that make a lasting impact.
What We Will Love About You:
- Bachelor's degree in Child Development, Education, Family Studies, Social Work, or a related field with coursework equivalent to a major in Early Childhood Education/Child Development.
- Three years of supervisory or management experience.
- Experience supporting staff development, working with families, and coordinating individualized services preferred.
- Graduate-level coursework and experience in observation, evaluation, or personal management preferred.
- Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
- Family Service Worker credential and CLASS reliability certification preferred (or willingness to obtain after hire).
Most importantly, you're passionate about supporting children, families, and staff while creating high-quality early childhood programs that make a lasting difference in the community.