Job Title: Head Start & Early Learning Programs Director
Location: Northampton, MA (with travel throughout service area)
Position Type: Full-time, Exempt
Compensation: $107,860-$114,430 plus outstanding benefits. See below.
Community Action Pioneer Valley is seeking an experienced, visionary leader to direct our Head Start and Early Learning Programs — serving children and families across Franklin and Hampshire Counties, the North Quabbin region, and western Hampden County. This is a rare opportunity to lead a comprehensive, federal and state-funded early childhood program with deep roots in community, a committed team, and a strong culture of quality and equity. As Director, you will provide strategic leadership across all program components — education, health, nutrition, mental health, disabilities services, and family services — while ensuring full compliance with Head Start Program Performance Standards, MA Department of Early Education and Care requirements, and all applicable federal and state regulations. You will serve as a key member of Community Action's leadership team and as staff liaison to the Head Start Policy Council.
What You'll Do:
- Lead and supervise senior managers and directors across education, child and family services, data and planning, and fiscal operations
- Manage a multi-million-dollar budget including federal Head Start/Early Head Start funds, state contracts, and grants
- Serve as primary liaison to OHS, EEC, and state and national coalitions
- Champion school readiness, program quality, and continuous improvement
- Partner with the Policy Council and Board of Directors to shape program direction and meet governance requirements
What You Bring:
- Bachelor's degree required (ECE, Human Services, Public Administration, or related field preferred)
- 8+ years of progressive leadership experience in early education or human services, including staff supervision, fiscal management, program development, and administration
- Deep knowledge of Head Start Performance Standards and/or early childhood regulations
- Commitment to equity, anti-racism, and culturally responsive practice
- Effective communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills
Note: This position carries specific regulatory qualification requirements under Head Start Program Performance Standards (§1302.91). We welcome candidates with diverse backgrounds and will consider relevant combinations of experience, education, and transferable skills — please be specific in your application about how your background meets the requirements of this role.
Why Community Action Pioneer Valley?
- Generous benefits: health, dental, vision, retirement match, FSA, long-term disability
- Generous time off: start with 4 weeks of vacation, plus 12.5 paid holidays, sick, and 4 float time days.
- Training and professional development support
- Qualifying employer for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
Please go to https://www.communityaction.us/employment for the full job description, information regarding benefits and to apply with cover letter and resume.
