Program Operations Director

The Program Operations Director (POD) plays a critical role in ensuring that enrolled children and families at Head Start of Rockland, Inc. receive comprehensive, integrated, and high-quality services. This leadership position is responsible for monitoring adherence to Head Start Program Performance Standards, Federal, State, and Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) regulations, local regulations, NAEYC/Quality Stars standards, contract requirements, and organizational policies and procedures. The POD ensures continuous quality improvement through robust data monitoring, analysis, and evaluation. This position actively contributes to strategic planning as part of the Executive Management Team and oversees elements of HR and Fiscal operations relating to employee benefit programs.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Ensure compliance with Head Start/Early Head Start Policies and Procedures, Performance Standards, OCFS requirements, NAEYC, and Quality Stars.
• Develop, monitor, and implement systems for ongoing monitoring of program operations across all service areas.
• Maintain current knowledge of regulatory standards, updates, and best practices.
• Oversee and support the development of annual content area plans aligned with program goals and results of annual self-assessment.
• Collect, track, and analyze program data to evaluate effectiveness, support decision-making, and drive continuous program improvement.
• Ensure that data from Federal Program Monitoring, Annual Self-Assessment, PIR, Child and Family Outcomes Reports, and other evaluations are compiled and used for program planning.
• Conduct regular monitoring of systems, procedures, policies, and operations to identify gaps, risks, and areas of improvement.
• Investigate best practices and recommend system enhancements.
• Serve as a member of the Executive Management Team, supporting organizational planning, compliance, and strategic initiatives.
• Assist the Executive Director with annual program planning, progress monitoring, and evaluation.
• Provide monthly reports to the Executive Director regarding program progress, goals, and data outcomes.
• Collaborate with HR and Fiscal departments to manage day-to-day operations of group benefit programs
• Conduct wage/salary surveys, employee satisfaction surveys, and benefit summaries in collaboration with HR.
• Establish and administer personnel policies and handbooks alongside HR.
• Maintain visibility across programs and sites through regular site visits and engagement with staff, community partners, and funders.
• Support Site Directors in implementing school readiness, family, and community engagement goals.
• Promote utilization of the Pyramid Model and Active Supervision strategies.
• Ensure systematic follow-up to program functions and operational outcomes.
• Know centers procedures for handling emergencies. (I. e. accidents, early dismissal, etc.)

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Comprehensive knowledge of:
• Head Start/Early Head Start Program Performance Standards
• Federal/State/Local regulations
• OCFS and Quality Stars requirements
• School readiness and family engagement goals
• Understanding of HR functions, benefit administration, and compensation analysis.
• Capacity to interpret and utilize data for planning, performance evaluation, and compliance.
• Strong knowledge of computer systems, including: ChildPlus, Microsoft Office Suite, and database tools.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and conflict resolution skills.
• Strong leadership and project management abilities.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Early Childhood Education, Human Services, Social Work, Psychology, or related field.
• 3–5 years of relevant management experience in early childhood, Head Start, or nonprofit administration.

Preferred:

• Master’s degree in Administration, Human Services, Early Childhood Education, Social Work, Psychology, or related field.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $80,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $80,000 - $100,000