CENTER DIRECTOR I:  ects the Head Start program at the center level.  Responsibilities encompasses all facets of the program, including: integration of components, center/cluster supervisory compliance with Performance Standards; safety and developmentally appropriate education of young children; involvement of parents/guardians; supervision and mentoring of staff and volunteers; and maintenance and security of the Head Start Center.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

*** Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education or related field of study and a minimum of two (2years of experience which directly reflects a background in the areas described under duties including one (1) year of demonstrated supervisory experience; or any combination of education and experience to equal six 6) years including one (1) year of demonstrated supervisory experience.

***The minimum education requirements must meet the NM Child Care licensing regulation 8.16.2.23(B) to license a childcare center:  Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development, or National Administrator Credential, or NM Child Development Certificate, or Child Development Associate credential, or Child Care Professional certificate, or the NM Early Childhood Program Administration certificate. 

Must demonstrate the ability to perform the essential job functions that reasonably ensure the health, safety, and welfare of children in care.

Must demonstrate experience working with culturally diverse families.

Must have working knowledge of NM Children’s Code, child abuse reporting procedures and protocol.

Must be dependable and flexible regarding working hours.

Ability to follow and carry out written and oral instructions, quickly and accurately.

Must be able to use discretion in all facets of work-related situations.

Ability to perform all work rapidly and accurately, meeting all deadlines when applicable.

JOB CHARACTERISTICS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

This position is exempt from overtime provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act.  This is a professional position, which requires excellent organizational and communication skills, as well as judgment, tact and diplomacy in contacts with Head Start employees, parents, community residents, and local government agencies.  Strict adherence is required to all regulations concerning confidentiality.

Good general health and the ability to lift and carry 55 lbs are essential. 

Background investigation to include fingerprint process will be required.

Physical and TB Skin may be required every five years.

Travel is required.  Current valid driver’s license and proof of satisfactory car insurance is required. 

Youth Development, Inc. is an at-will employer.  Employment is by mutual consent of the company and employee, and either may terminate the relationship at any time with or without cause or advance notice.  This job is contingent upon funding; however, availability of funding is not a guarantee of continued employment, nor does it imply any specific term of employment.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES (Not Inclusive):

• Responsible for enforcement of all State Licensing and Fire Marshall Regulations.
• Ensures that center licenses, inspections, and accreditations are current.
• Supervises all center support and center staff to ensure compliance with Performance Standards, including education, nutrition, social services, disabilities, parent involvement and health.
• Manages staff rations at the center level; ensures adequate classroom coverage with appropriate staff in accordance with NM State licensing regulations.
• Leads recruitment efforts for assigned center.Active participation in the organization and activities of the recruitment process which includes dissemination of information and assistance of prospective families with the application process.
• Provides case management services to assigned Head Start children and their families which includes the monitoring of Head Start service areas delivered to them according to the revised Performance Standards and program plan(s).
• Monitors child and facility files to ensure compliance of Family Partnership Agreements, and health and dental wellness, and to achieve and maintain enrollment for assigned center.
• Is responsible for maintaining all required documentation in the child’s Head Start file is a timely, complete, and orderly fashion as required by program administration requirements.
• Ensures and is primarily responsible for compliance with Performance Standards, work plan and agency Personnel Rules and Regulations.
• Conducts and/or participates in performance evaluations of all center staff.
• Organizes cluster support meetings weekly.
• Provides job orientation, to include: job responsibilities, assignments, personnel policies and general familiarization of the work site.
• Responds to parent concerns at the center level; mediates staff and parent conflicts at the center level.
• Assists in organizing and participates in parent meetings.
• Reports all problem areas to the Associate Director.
• Responsible for the inventory and care of all equipment and supplies.
• Attends all meetings as assigned by the Associate Director or Associate Director.
• Participates in management meetings and supervisory training.
• Holds regular staff meetings with center staff.
• Monitors kitchen for safety and health standards.
• Monitors classroom for teacher/child interactions; staff interactions; developmentally appropriate practices; parent volunteers, and compliance with performance standards, work plan and licensing regulations.
• Reviews all reports, daily attendance, meal counts, screening, time sheets, etc. and submits to the Associate Director.
• Submits monthly reports to Associate Director.
• Responsible for adherence to health, sanitation, and safety standards related to nutrition.
• Other duties as assigned.