"Executive Director, Head Start Agency (Extended Deadline)"

Job Details

Description

The School of Education is looking for someone to fill the Executive Director position within the Head Start Agency. This position includes the development and oversight of policies/procedures based on local, state, University and federal rules and regulations. The position requires discretion and independent judgment in decision making related to personnel and human resources matters, child health and safety, operation of transportation services, facility maintenance, safety, and financial management. The ability to make independent decisions is necessary in order to analyze and minimize risks for children, families, staff, and the University. Application review will begin after October 15, 2025, with applications accepted until the position is filled.

The anticipated salary for this position is $7,500.00 to 8,708.00 monthly ($90,000.00 to $104,496.00 annually). Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity.

Examples of Duties

1. Plans, coordinates, and implements the Head Start Program consistent with the overall program mission, goals, and strategic plan.
2. Directs the development of program annual grant proposal, financial plans, and budgets and works in concert with governing bodies, appropriate University departments and funding source for approvals and grant submission.
3. Develops and monitors necessary management systems and procedures to assure fiscal accountability, record keeping and reporting, and compliance with all applicable local, state and federal rules/regulations.
4. Develops and oversees an ongoing monitoring system to ensure quality control of all service areas and ensure the safety of Head Start children.
5. Promotes innovation and continuous quality improvement at all program levels by establishing systems of professional development, succession, and staff support.
6. Serves as an advocate for the program and promotes excellent public relations by serving on boards, committees, and participating in community activities.

Qualifications

Minimum:

1. Master's Degree required with at least five years of experience as an administrator/supervisor in a social services organization, child care/development setting, educational environment or related field working with children and families.
2. Experience should include the ability to manage a substantial budget and complex working environment while setting goals for the organization and providing leadership to fulfill the mission of Head Start. The ability to communicate effectively is required.

Preferred:

1. Knowledge of DCFS rules and regulations affecting children and families.
2. Commit to and abide by the program’s Standards of Conduct to ensure that all children are always physically and emotionally safe while in the care of Head Start.
3. Experience working with Federal or State grants and
4. Previous work experience with a Head Start provider.

Required Documents: Submit a letter of application, current CV, and three references.

Contact: William Carr, william.carr@siu.edu

Supplemental Information

Southern Illinois University Carbondale is an R1 Opportunity University with a statewide economic impact of $2.7 billion dollars. We offer 200+ undergraduate degrees, minors and specializations, 79 master’s degrees, and 40 doctoral degrees. Our main campus is 1,136 acres, with additional acreage in University Farms, Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center, and other facilities. The university is an essential part of the city of Carbondale and an important contributor to the culture of the entire region. While Carbondale includes many of the amenities of urban life, it retains its small-town flavor. Cost of living is considerably lower in the region than similar areas elsewhere, and many employees commute from nearby counties.

The Southern Illinois region is distinct from the rest of the state, boasting considerable natural beauty including the Shawnee National Forest, many state parks, national wildlife areas, and several lakes beloved for recreation. Local foods are readily available in the area, with a variety of eateries and a growing specialized food truck presence. The area is home to the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, an official wine appellation designation. The wineries extend the cultural reach of the community, hosting live music and continual art exhibits. The campus itself is a microcosm of the area, with a lake and forest on campus, as well as traditional collegiate architecture, quad, and residential halls. Students enjoy outdoor study areas as well as specialized computer labs scattered across campus, including in the three million volume Morris Library. To learn about employee benefits and find resources about Carbondale and the Southern Illinois region, visit: https://jobs.siu.edu/.

SIU Carbondale is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status.