Head Start Senior Project Analyst

ICF • Reston, VA

10h • Remote

About The Position

The Senior Project Analyst is an experienced Head Start subject matter expert and generalist who provides high-level analytical and advisory support to the Office of Head Start (OHS) Central Office. The Senior Project Analyst works as a trusted advisor and liaison across multiple OHS divisions and program areas. The Senior Project Analyst applies broad knowledge of Head Start/Early Head Start program operations, grants oversight, policy and regulatory requirements, monitoring processes, training and technical assistance (T/TA), data systems, and stakeholder engagement to support OHS in meeting its mission. This role requires exceptional responsiveness, attention to quality, and the ability to balance evolving priorities, ensuring timely, accurate support for a range of initiatives and “customer service” functions at OHS.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field such as education, public administration, public policy, social sciences, or management.
• 5+ years of professional experience in program analysis, project coordination, or related roles
• 3+ years supporting Head Start/Early Head Start programs
• 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 and generalist support across all major Head Start domains, including program management, grants management/oversight, policy interpretation, compliance monitoring, T/TA coordination, data analysis, and external communications.
• Serve as a central resource to OHS leadership and staff on Head Start Program Performance Standards, policies, and program operations, ensuring consistent understanding and application across the organization.
• Leverage OHS data systems (e.g., Head Start Enterprise System (HSES), Grant Solutions, and other databases) to track program metrics, analyze trends, and prepare reports that inform decision-making.
• Translate complex program and performance data into clear, actionable insights and high-quality briefing materials for OHS senior leadership and stakeholders.
• Support the development and refinement of standard operating procedures (SOPs), workflows, and knowledge-management tools to enhance customer service processes and ensure efficient, high-quality execution of contract tasks.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements or policy clarifications by analyzing incoming requests and feedback and recommend solutions to improve consistency and efficiency in OHS central office operations.
• Collaborate closely with OHS leadership, federal program specialists, regional office staff, and T/TA network partners to coordinate cross-functional initiatives and special projects.
• Support internal and external stakeholder engagement by ensuring consistent messaging and understanding of OHS priorities, and by helping prepare leadership briefings, webinars, and responses to information requests.

Benefits

• ICF is an equal opportunity employer.
• Reasonable Accommodations are available, including, but not limited to, for disabled veterans, individuals with disabilities, and individuals with sincerely held religious beliefs, in all phases of the application and employment process.

What This Job Offers

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