Eligibility, Recruitment, Selection, Enrollment & Attendance (ERSEA) Specialist

East Bay Community Action Program•Newport, RI

1d•Onsite

About The Position

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.

Requirements

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
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

Nice To Haves

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

Responsibilities

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
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
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
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