Manager of Center Operations

Ecs4Kids•Ocala, FL

About The Position

The Manager of Center Operations administers policies and programs for Head Start and Early Head Start and is responsible for the planning, daily operations, and evaluation of assigned centers. The role supports Center Managers and Child Care Partners (CCPs), monitors program quality and compliance, coordinates staff development and training, oversees budgets and reporting, and collaborates with agency leadership and community partners. The position works across center and classroom settings and requires travel to various sites, including some out-of-town travel involving nights and weekends.

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree.
  • At least 3 years of related center operations experience in Head Start or directly operated centers.
  • Director’s Credential.
  • Knowledge of and commitment to applicable Head Start/Early Head Start, DCF, NAEYC, CDA, VPK, School Readiness, and other agency standards.
  • Ability to work tactfully and diplomatically with employees and the public.
  • Good judgment and emotional maturity in routine and crisis situations.
  • Knowledge of and ability to articulate and demonstrate current best practices in early childhood education.
  • Ability to track, monitor, synthesize, and analyze data.
  • Skill in developing employees and holding them accountable.
  • Ability to work with little direct supervision.
  • Knowledge of applicable safety and abuse-reporting procedures.
  • Intermediate to advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office products.
  • Effective oral and written communication skills.
  • Ability to maintain confidential information.
  • Ability to multitask, prioritize, and work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Valid driver’s license and proof of automobile coverage.
  • Satisfactory driving record as outlined in the Vehicle Driving Policy.
  • Complete 15 hours of in-service/professional development training each fiscal year (July–June).
  • Renew Director’s Credential six months before its expiration date.
  • Complete a Level II background screening.

Responsibilities

  • Select, recruit, supervise, and train assigned Center Managers.
  • Assist with day-to-day center operations when a Center Manager is absent.
  • Monitor Child Care Partner contract compliance with Head Start Performance Standards and ECS Head Start/Early Head Start policies and procedures.
  • Coordinate with Center Managers on recruitment and selection of center-based staff.
  • Develop and maintain relationships with Child Care Partners.
  • Develop professional development plans for Center Managers and CCP Directors.
  • Coordinate training for new center and CCP staff with relevant managers and training personnel.
  • Interpret ECS Head Start/Early Head Start programs to CCPs, families, parents, and the community.
  • Monitor and adhere to Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten contracts.
  • Ensure timely and meaningful performance reviews and goal development for center staff.
  • Collaborate with leadership and the Policy Council to develop Head Start and Early Head Start program plans and goals that meet community needs.
  • Ensure CCPs provide educational services and guide curriculum, program planning, and training development.
  • Monitor program quality and compliance with governmental and educational standards and agency assessment tools.
  • Assist with reports and maintain accurate, current records for each CCP site.
  • Support center and CCP staff in maintaining quality programming that meets the needs of parents, children, and staff.
  • Monitor the approved Head Start/Early Head Start program budget and take appropriate action to correct variances.
  • Monitor Child Plus to ensure the accuracy of the Program Information Report.
  • Help plan and conduct program-wide staff trainings and meetings.
  • Prepare and submit accurate, timely reports required by funding sources.
  • Work with Center Managers, Human Resources, and/or the Director of Educational Operations to follow up on parent and community complaints.
  • Assist Human Resources with investigations of staff disciplinary issues.
  • Promote a positive, creative, mission-focused, and team-oriented work atmosphere.
  • Help staff develop relationships with community agencies to support program development and CCP partnerships.

Benefits

  • Medical insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • 403(b) plan with 5% employer match
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Long-term and short-term disability insurance
  • Employer-paid life insurance
  • Paid holidays
  • Generous paid time off
  • Career development
  • Qualifying employer for Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
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