Program Manager-Center Base

Why Join Us?

• Impact: Play a pivotal role in closing the achievement gap for children in our community.

• Culture: Work within a supportive, mission-driven environment that values professional growth.

• Compensation/Benefits: 

  • Salary Scale: $52,000-$58,000 (annual); 12 months
  • Hiring Bonus
  • 401K
  • Paid Time Off-Start Earning immediately
  • Health, Dental, Vision, STD, LTD & Life Insurance
  • Student Loan Forgiveness Qualifying Employer
  • Professional Development
  • Employee Assistance Program

Role Overview

Are you a passionate leader dedicated to early childhood excellence? 

We are seeking a Program Manager (On-site: Waterloo, IA) to oversee the daily operations, management, and implementation of agency goals in a center-based site. In this role, you will be the bridge between high-level policy and classroom reality, ensuring that every child and family in our Head Start and Early Head Start programs receives the highest quality of service.

As a Program Manager, you will lead a dedicated team of educators, navigate complex regulatory landscapes, and foster an environment where children thrive and staff feel supported.

Minimum Requirements:

• A minimum of a Baccalaureate degree from an accredited four-year college or university.
  • Preferably related to one or more of the disciplines they oversee. 
• Two years of experience or more
  • Prefer Early Childhood, Head Start/Early Head Start, and/or Child care.
• Knowledge and experience in data collection, information processes, and systems.
  • Prefer knowledge of childcare regulations and policy and procedure compliance.
• Advanced computer skills (database management, spreadsheet, document, internet, and e-mail.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills. 
• Demonstrated leadership ability, team management, and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent analytical, diagnostic, and problem-solving skills, plus excellent organization skills. 
• Must obtain a valid Iowa Driver’s License, proof of insurance, and maintain it throughout the duration of employment. 
• Must be cleared and allowed to work in a childcare setting by the Iowa Department of Human Services, by completing a State of Iowa Criminal History Record Check and FBI National Fingerprint Record Check.