UVSO Early Head Start Site Director

Job Description

Job Description

Site Director- Early Childhood ( View Hyperlink for full job description ) 

The Site Director at Palm Street Development Center provides leadership and oversight for the day-to-day operations of the Early Head Start program, ensuring that all educational, operational, and compliance standards are met in accordance with Head Start Performance Standards, New Jersey childcare licensing regulations, and Unified Vailsburg Services Organization policies.

The Site Director supervises teaching staff, administrative assistant, and support personnel while maintaining a safe, nurturing, and high-quality learning environment for children and families. This role works collaboratively with the Director of Education, administrative leadership, and other departments to ensure program excellence and strong family engagement.

Key Responsibilities:

Program Leadership & Operations

• Provide daily leadership and oversight of all Early Head Start classrooms and program operations at the Palm Street Development Center.

• Ensure all educational programming aligns with Head Start Performance Standards, Creative Curriculum, and school readiness goals.

• Monitor classroom environments to ensure high-quality teaching practices and positive child development outcomes.

• Ensure that the center maintains full compliance with federal, state, and local regulations governing Early Head Start and childcare operations.

Staff Supervision & Development

• Supervise and support teachers, assistant teachers, administrative assistance, and support staff assigned to the Palm Street site.

• Conduct regular staff meetings and provide coaching, mentoring, and technical assistance.

• Participate in staff hiring, onboarding, and performance evaluations in collaboration with Human Resources and the Director of Education.

• Facilitate professional development plans for staff based on performance evaluations and program needs

Key Skills and Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or a 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.

• Ability to collaborate effectively with staff, families, and community partners.

• Ability to move throughout the facility and classrooms as needed.

• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds when necessary for classroom or operational support.

• Ability to respond to emergency situations and ensure the safety of children and staff