Head Start Program Administrator

Under administrative direction, provides overall leadership in the planning, implementation, personnel, and evaluation of all aspects of the Head Start Program. This position requires a high degree of knowledge about Head Start Performance Standards, and all component aspects of the Program. Oversees the Head Start Policy Council and reports to the City's Community Action Advisory Board. Exercises direct supervision over assigned staff.

This position is a "grant funded" position, therefore unclassified and has no disciplinary appeal rights to the Municipal Civil Service Commission. This position is likewise subject to at-will employment status and can be terminated at any time for any reason.

Work Location

San Antonio Head Start - 1227 Brady Blvd., San Antonio, TX (78227)

Work Hours

7:45 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday. May require some weekends and evenings based on business needs.

• Assumes full management responsibility for all services and activities, including the administration of federal government funding for Early Head Start, Early Head Start-Child Care Partnership, and Head Start Prekindergarten.
• Selects, motivates, and evaluates staff; provides and/or coordinates training and work responsibilities with the Head Start team; and implements and administers disciplinary and termination procedures when needed.
• Manages the development of program planning, monitoring, and fiscal management of the division.
• Manages the preparation of grant applications to ensure adequacy and timeliness.
• Manages the preparation of all ordinances and supporting documents required to administer the program, including presentations to the City Council.
• Coordinates contracts with partner agencies to administer the Head Start Program.
• Leads the coordination of the Head Start Policy Council and reports to the City's Community Action Advisory Board.
• Acts as official representative to City departments, City Manager's Office, elected officials, and outside agencies; explains, justifies, and defends programs, policies, and activities, and negotiates and resolves significant, sensitive, and controversial issues.
• Establishes and maintains effective working relationships to ensure adequate flow of information in all directions so that both staff and management employees are kept informed.
• Monitors Head Start expenditures and documents unmet needs for supplemental requests and provides budget reports to the Head Start Policy Council.
• Responds to and resolves sensitive inquiries and complaints from both internal and external sources.
• Assumes significant responsibilities for the preparation and administration of assigned budget.
• Leads the development and implementation of goals and objectives for the Head Start Program, in partnership with school districts and childcare centers.
• Performs related duties and fulfills responsibilities as required.
• Master's Degree from an accredited college or university.
• Five (5) years' experience in program development and budget, including three (3) years of supervisory experience.
  
  

Applicant Information

• Unless otherwise stated, applicants are permitted to substitute two years of related full-time experience for one year of higher education or one year of related higher education for two years of experience in order to meet the minimum requirements of the job. One year of full-time experience is defined as 30 or more hours worked per week for 12 months. One year of higher education is defined as 30 credit hours completed at an accredited college or university.
• Applicants selected for employment with the City of San Antonio in this position must receive satisfactory results from pre-employment drug testing and background checks. If required for the position, a physical, motor vehicle record evaluation, and additional background checks may be conducted.
• Please be advised that if selected for this position, information regarding employment history as it relates to the qualifications of the position will be needed for employment verification. Applicants claiming military service to meet the experience requirement for this position may attach a DD214 to the application.
• If selected for this position, official transcripts, diplomas, certifications, and licenses must be submitted at the time of processing. Unofficial transcripts and copies of other relevant documents may be attached to the application for consideration in advance.
• Knowledge of Early Head Start and Head Start Prekindergarten, including Head Start Performance Standards.
• Knowledge of partnerships with school districts and childcare centers implementing the Early Head Start and Head Start Prekindergarten programs.
• Knowledge of organizational and management practices as applied to the analysis and evaluation of programs, policies, and operational needs.
• Knowledge of program planning and development techniques.
• Knowledge of Federal, State, and local regulations governing community service activities as well as regulations governing social services in general.
• Knowledge of advanced principles and practices of municipal budget preparation and administration.
• Knowledge of principles of supervision, training, and performance evaluation.
• Knowledge of organization, function, and authority of various City departments.
• Knowledge of City Council mandates and municipal needs.
• Skill in operating a personal computer and utilizing rudimentary software.
• Ability to operate a computer keyboard and other basic office equipment.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively.
• Ability to prepare and present clear and concise administrative and financial reports.
• Ability to provide administrative and professional leadership and direction to staff.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with City staff and officials, other government officials, community groups, the general public, and media representatives.
• Ability to perform all the physical requirements of the position with or without accommodations.
• Ability to work primarily in an office environment.