Eligibility, Recruitment, Selection, Enrollment & Attendance (ERSEA) Specialist – Head Start (Full-Time)

East Bay Community Action Program (EBCAP)
Location: Newport, RI (Chafee Blvd) | On-site with travel to Head Start locations

About the Role

East Bay Community Action Program (EBCAP) is seeking a detail-driven, mission-motivated ERSEA Specialist to ensure that every eligible child and family in our community has equitable access to Head Start, Early Head Start, Pre-K, and Child Care programs.

This role is perfect for someone who thrives at the intersection of data, systems, and family-centered service. As the operational backbone of Eligibility, Recruitment, Selection, Enrollment, and Attendance (ERSEA), you’ll turn federal requirements into efficient, compassionate processes that support families and keep programs fully enrolled and compliant.

You’ll be a key member of the Head Start management team, partnering closely with staff, leadership, and community organizations to drive continuous improvement and uphold program performance standards.

What You’ll Do

ERSEA Systems & Compliance

• Own and maintain ERSEA systems to ensure compliance with Head Start Program Performance Standards (HSPPS 1302.12–1302.16)
• Ensure accuracy, security, and completeness of ERSEA data in ChildPlus and related systems
• Analyze enrollment, eligibility, recruitment, and attendance data to identify trends and drive improvement
• Contribute to annual community assessment and program self-assessment processes

Eligibility, Recruitment & Enrollment

• Oversee eligibility verification and documentation for applicants
• Conduct eligibility appointments with families as needed
• Lead development and implementation of the annual Recruitment Plan
• Coordinate outreach efforts and community recruitment events
• Apply selection criteria and manage enrollment to ensure vacancies are filled promptly
• Communicate selection outcomes with families and connect them to community resources as needed

Attendance & Reporting

• Implement and monitor attendance policies and procedures
• Conduct weekly attendance reviews and lead monthly Attendance Team meetings
• Collaborate with staff to address attendance barriers and support families
• Prepare and share regular reports with leadership and Policy Council

Training & Collaboration

• Provide training, coaching, and technical assistance to staff on ERSEA policies, procedures, and systems
• Build strong partnerships with community organizations to support recruitment and engagement
• Stay current on Head Start regulations and best practices

What We’re Looking For

• Highly organized and detail-oriented with strong data management skills
• Confident translating complex regulations into clear, usable processes
• Strong communicator who builds trust with families, staff, and partners
• Comfortable managing multiple priorities and deadlines
• Commitment to confidentiality, equity, and family-centered practice

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent (relevant experience may substitute for education)
• Experience with eligibility determination, enrollment management, or data systems in a federally funded program preferred
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office; experience with ChildPlus strongly preferred
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel between Head Start locations
• Availability for occasional evening or weekend recruitment events

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Early Childhood Education, Public Administration, or related field
• Experience with Head Start or Early Head Start ERSEA functions
• Knowledge of Head Start Performance Standards and DCYF licensing requirements
• Bilingual in Spanish, Portuguese, Cape Verdean Creole, or Haitian Creole

Position Details

• Status: Full-Time (30–40 hours/week)
• Pay Range: $19.00–$27.00/hour (based on experience)
• Work Environment: In-person; travel required across Head Start sites
• Funding: Grant-funded, multi-year position

Why Join EBCAP?

• Make a real impact by expanding access to early childhood education for families who need it most
• Join a collaborative, mission-driven organization rooted in the community
• Competitive benefits including medical, dental, retirement match, generous paid time off, and mileage reimbursement
• Tuition reimbursement, paid training, and professional development opportunities

Ready to Apply?

If you’re passionate about equity, data-driven systems, and supporting children and families, we’d love to hear from you. Apply today and help EBCAP build strong foundations for lifelong success.