Start Early (formerly known as the Ounce) is an energized, future-focused organization committed to providing quality early learning and care across the country.

Our desire to close the opportunity gap and build more equitable early learning experiences for our youngest learners guides everything we do. As a leader in early learning and care, we scale our deep expertise across programs, policy, and research through partnerships across the country.

We are recruiting individuals who want to join us in this mission and share a dedication to our core values of appreciation & respect, empowerment, diversity, excellence, learning, and communication.

As a federal Head Start grantee, Start Early partners with the 10 community-based agencies to deliver quality early learning and care to more than 1,400 children and families across Illinois. Start Early convenes its partner agencies in a network designed to continually improve our practice. Each community-based agency brings its own local relationships, unique perspectives, and strategies to strengthen the early childhood field.

Become part of our rewarding, mission-driven arts! We want our employees to feel empowered, motivated, energized, and passionate about the work they do!

The People and Culture Specialist – Head Start will assist in ensuring compliance of Start Early/EHSN and HS/EHS policies and procedures, service plans, and applicable federal, state, and city regulations. In addition, the People and Culture Specialist provides monitoring, content area support, oversight, and training in Head Start human resource requirements.

The People and Culture Compliance Specialist will work closely with Director, People & Culture – Head Start to develop and implement strategies to drive human resource best practices through the Head Start/Early Head Start Network (EHSN) Subrecipient early learning programs.

Responsibilities:

• Ensures EHSN Sub-recipient early learning programs submit proper background check clearance, education qualifications and current physical screen reports for all new hires upon employment.
• Schedule staff personnel files audits with EHSN Sub-recipient early learning programs to ensure all Early/Head Start funded staffs’ personnel files meet Office of Head Start requirements.
• Responsible for extensive, regular, and ongoing monitoring of program HR Data and center documentation to ensure program goals, objectives, and compliances are achieved.
• Work with center and program staff to review transcripts as needed, to ensure that center staff members are meeting their Head Start requirements.
• Responsible for conducting Head Start Human Resources orientation sessions, training, and technical assistance.
• Analyzes personnel data on a bi-monthly basis and work with center and program staff members to develop support plans that address continuous quality improvement and make recommendations for trainings and technical assistances.
• Prepare and update the monthly personnel updates reports to share with internal and external key staff.
• Complete and maintain assigned People and Culture tasks/processes in accordance with Federal, State, Local laws, and Head Start Performance Standards.
• Assist with special assignments including data collection, audits and preparation of various documents related to People and Culture matters.
• Maintains respectful, participative, and a supportive demeanor towards EHSN Sub-recipient early learning programs.
• Exercise independent judgment and discretion on significant People and Culture matters.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Early Childhood Administration, Education, Communications, or a related field with equivalent experience.
• Vehicle/Transportations Requirements:
  • Valid driver’s license
  • Auto insurance
  • Reliable vehicle
• 2 years of experience working in an Early/Head Start program.
• Supervisor or childcare administrator experience preferred.
• Must demonstrate knowledge of new Head Start Performance Standards and DCFS Licensing Standards.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail and thoroughness in completing tasks and projects are essential for success in this role.
• Proficient with technology platforms, (i.e. MS Office Suite, Smartsheet, ChildPlus, WordPress, Gateways, DCFS Portal, Cornerstone OnDemand, etc.) c
• Ability to learn and master other computer technology /software programs as needed.
• Able to process and protect confidential information in a professional manner.
• Fully competent in employment legislation and compliance with Head Start Performance Standards, Federal, State and Local laws pertaining to all human resource matters.
• Deep commitment in advancing diversity, racial equity, and inclusion into organizational routines and practice.
• Effectively establish and maintain effective relationships with customers and gain their trust and respect.
• Comfort and experience in handling risk and uncertainty to move work forward.

Salary: We believe that all employees should be paid fairly and equitably. As of the time of this posting, the expected base annual salary range for this position is $62,000 - $66,000. The base annual salary will be based on a wide range of factors, including skills, qualifications, experience, as well as business needs and limitations.

Our generous benefits plan includes:

Comprehensive Health Plans, Commitment to Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion, Holistic Wellness Program, Professional Development Program, 401k Contribution, Paid Volunteer Days, 6 months of paid parental leave, and much more.

Start Early is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to our core values by creating an inclusive environment for all staff.