Child Development Manager

🌟 We're Hiring: Child Development Manager

Location: Providence, RI, Pawtucket, RI, Central Falls, RI (candidate will manage multiple sites in these areas) 
Reports To: Deputy Director of Head Start
Employment Type: Full-Time (Monday - Friday, 8 hour shifts)

Are you a passionate early childhood leader ready to make a lasting impact on children and families? Join Children’s Friend and help shape high-quality, inclusive early learning environments that empower Rhode Island’s most vulnerable communities.

We’re looking for a Child Development Manager who thrives in leadership, collaboration, and innovation—someone who can guide teams, elevate program quality, and ensure every child gets the strong start they deserve.

💡 Why This Role Matters

In this role, you’ll be at the heart of our Head Start and Early Head Start programs, leading child development operations and supporting a team dedicated to excellence in early education. Your work will directly influence school readiness, family engagement, and lifelong outcomes for children.

🧩 What You’ll Do:

• Leadership & Strategy

  • Lead and oversee child development operations across Head Start and Early Head Start programs
  • Supervise and mentor Child Development Supervisors through reflective, growth-focused leadership
  • Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement
  • Take initiave with achievement oriented results

• Program Excellence & Compliance

  • Ensure full compliance with Head Start Performance Standards and childcare licensing requirements
  • Maintain safe, developmentally appropriate classroom environments
  • Oversee curriculum implementation and classroom materials

• Family & Community Impact

  • Champion meaningful parent engagement and family-centered services
  • Partner with internal teams and community organizations to support holistic family needs
  • Address parent concerns with empathy and professionalism

• Team Development & Operations

  • Support hiring, training, and evaluation of early childhood staff
  • Participate in case management and cross-functional team meetings
  • Contribute to grant writing, budgeting, and program development

🧠 What You Bring:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Education, or Special Education (or RIDE certification)
• Proven leadership experience in early childhood settings
• Experience working with at-risk children and families
• Strong knowledge of curriculum design and implementation
• Exceptional communication, organizational, and leadership skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment

Bonus if you have:

• Experience with Head Start programs
• Background in supervision and staff development
• Grant writing or program funding experience

🌱 Why Join Children’s Friend?

At Children’s Friend, we believe every child deserves a strong start. As part of our team, you’ll have the chance to grow professionally, contribute meaningfully, and be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace where your efforts matter every day.

🔒 Equal Opportunity Employer

We are committed to equity and diversity in the workplace. If you require accommodations during the application process, please contact us at talent@cfsri.org.

• Medical Dental and Vision coverage 
• Employer contributions to the 403(b) plan
• Employer-paid Life and Disability insurance 
• Flex Spending Accounts 
• 12 Holidays 
• Competitive Vacation Benefits 
• Training and Professional Development 
• Education Assistance 
• Student Loan Repayment Assistance