Head Start Development, Teaching and Learning (DTL) Specialist , Remote

ICF • Reston, VA

1d • $67,355 - $114,503 • Remote

About The Position

The Senior Project Analyst provides expert-level content knowledge regarding Development, Teaching and Learning (DTL) and strategic support to the Office of Head Start (OHS) in response to emerging programmatic needs, national directives, legislative changes, and policy priorities. This role requires deep contextual understanding of Head Start operations, strong relationships across the early childhood development community, and subject matter expertise across key Head Start content areas. The specialist supports time-sensitive, high-impact initiatives—and provides both short- and long-term expertise in functional, operational, and programmatic domains.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in early childhood education, public administration, social sciences, public policy, or related field
• 5+ years of experience supporting Head Start/Early Head Start programs or federal early childhood initiatives.
• 2+ years of experience supporting federal program initiatives or high priority national projects.
• 2+ years of experience providing training or technical assistance in early childhood, governance, performance management, or fiscal oversight.
• US government issued security clearance required (will be initiated upon hire)
• Valid driver’s license and ability to pass an MVR check.

Nice To Haves

• Deep knowledge of Head Start Program Performance Standards and program operations.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret programmatic, fiscal, and operational data.
• Exceptional written communication skills, particularly for federal style guidance, tools, and decision documentation.
• Experience developing technical assistance tools, templates, and guidance used at scale.
• Familiarity with HSES, Smartsheet, or similar tracking and workflow tools.
• Experience providing training or TA to diverse stakeholders.
• Proven ability to develop presentations, strategic content, and briefing materials for senior leaders.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert guidance across all major Head Start content areas, including: Education, Health and nutrition, Mental health, Dental, Social services, Family and community engagement, Early childhood and comprehensive services.
• Utilize OHS systems such as GrantSolutions and the Head Start Enterprise System (HSES) for tracking, documentation, and analysis.
• Support the development of custom solutions and specialized workplans tailored to OHS needs and timelines.
• Prepare clear summaries, data briefs, and presentations for OHS leadership.
• Participate in national and regional OHS meetings as directed.
• Provide training and briefings for senior management on issues involving state systems.
• Deliver on-site, group, and virtual trainings on governance, program management, fiscal operations, and oversight.
• Support strategic planning efforts for state initiatives and early childhood services.
• Assist with development of materials and documentation to support policy, strategy, and program implementation.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level