Head Start Operations Manager

Build the systems that help children and families thrive.

EBCAP is hiring a Head Start Operations Manager, a mission-critical leader who ensures our Head Start and Early Head Start sites are safe, compliant, well-run, and powered by a strong, data informed culture—so our staff can focus on what matters most: high-quality services for children and families.

This is a full-time, onsite role based primarily in Newport, with regular travel to program locations across EBCAP’s service area. The Operations Manager reports to the Head Start Compliance & Quality Director.

Why This Role Matters

When our operational foundations are strong, classrooms run smoothly, teams collaborate seamlessly, and facilities meet the highest standards of safety and care. You’ll be the connective tissue—coaching site leaders, standardizing processes, and turning data into decisions—so children and families experience consistent, excellent support in every location.

What You’ll Do

Lead & Coach (˜60%)

• Supervise and support Site Coordinators, building strong, interdisciplinary “communities of practice” among teachers, family advocates, and specialists.
• Foster trust, communication, and shared accountability so every staff member sees their impact on child and family outcomes.

Policies, Procedures & Compliance

• Own the review, maintenance, and rollout of program-wide policies and procedures aligned to Head Start Performance Standards and state regulations.
• Ensure manuals and emergency protocols are accessible at every site and audit-ready in agency systems.

Facilities & Operations

• Maintain state licensing documentation in RISES and coordinate timely fire, health, and safety inspections with internal partners to keep every site safe and compliant.

Training & Professional Development (˜20%)

• Track staff training in Child Plus and RISES.
• Coordinate professional development events and welcome new hires on Day 1 (policies, systems setup, equipment).

Data Systems & a Data-Informed Culture (˜15%)

• Partner with IT to manage platforms like Child Plus, Teaching Strategies, and RISES.
• Help teams use dashboards and reports to spot trends, allocate resources, and make evidence-based decisions.

Pitch In as Needed (˜5%)

• Provide occasional administrative coverage and site support to keep operations running smoothly.

What You’ll Bring

Required

• 5+ years in office administration, supervision, and data entry—ideally in early childhood or human services where policy compliance is central.
• Strength in complex data systems, organization, and deadline management; clear written and verbal communication.
• Ability to interpret and implement federal/state regulations.
• Valid RI driver’s license and reliable transportation for site travel.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and specialized data systems (e.g., Child Plus).

Preferred

• Experience with Head Start/Early Head Start, Head Start Performance Standards, and DCYF licensing.
• Familiarity with CQI (Continuous Quality Improvement).
• Bilingual (Spanish or Portuguese).

Physical/Work Conditions

• Mix of desk-based data work and site walkthroughs/inspections; occasional lifting up to 25 lbs; regular inter-site travel; ability to respond quickly during drills/emergencies.

Schedule & Work Setting

• Status: Full-time (benefit-eligible, 30–40 hours/week)
• Location: Primary site in Newport; travel across EBCAP’s service area
• Hybrid: Not eligible (on-site role)
• Reporting to: Head Start Compliance & Quality Director

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range: $50,000 – $69,999 annually (approx. $24.04 – $33.65/hour), commensurate with experience.
• Benefits for 30–40 hrs/week:
  • Subsidized medical (BCBSRI) and dental (Delta); optional vision (Delta)
  • 403(b) with up to 3% employer match (after one year)
  • Employer-paid life insurance
  • Generous PTO (vacation, holidays, personal, sick)
  • Mileage and tuition reimbursement
  • Agency-paid training/CEUs and EAP support

Ready to Lead with Purpose?

If you’re energized by building resilient systems, coaching leaders, and using data to elevate quality, we’d love to meet you. Apply through EBCAP’s careers process and help us strengthen the operational backbone that supports children and families across our communities.