Expected Annual Pay (Texas)
$45,000
Average salary range
Job Title
Assistant Director (Early Head Start/Head Start)
Discover a rewarding career path dedicated to inspiring and educating the next generation of learners.
Job Outlook (Texas)
+14%
Employment growth
Level of Education Required
Bachelor’s degree
Minimum requirement
Credentials or Licenses Required
None
Licenses / Certificates
Work Experience Typically Required
This role usually requires a few years of experience working in early childhood programs. Many people have been lead teachers or supported other staff before moving into this role. Often, experience managing budgets or program operations is also preferred.
Related experience needed
What is this role responsible for day to day?
Your day would focus on supporting the overall operation of an Early Head Start or Head Start program and assisting the director with leadership and compliance responsibilities. You might:
- Support the director with daily program operations and decision‑making
- Supervise and support teaching and support staff
- Help ensure compliance with Head Start Performance Standards and licensing requirements
- Assist with staff scheduling, purchasing, and documentation
- Step into leadership duties when the director is unavailable
- Provide classroom or operational support as needed
Career Snapshots
Explore different career paths within education and find the one that fits your passion
Elena
Elena started as a Head Start teaching assistant. She became a lead teacher after a few years. She liked helping other teachers and learning about program rules. She went back to school to get her bachelor’s in early education. Now, as an assistant director, she supports staff, helps with scheduling, and makes sure the program follows regulations.
Tiana
Tiana started as a child care assistant, then became a teacher, then an assistant director at a child care center. She transferred her skills in early education, budget management, and administration to now work as an Assistant Director at a large Head Start program.
Louis
Louis has a social work degree and worked with families as a family services worker in a Head Start program. He then worked as a program coordinator across classrooms and services. Now as an assistant director, he works closely with families and staff to make sure children and families get what they need.
What are some skills or personal traits that people in this role typically have?
People in this role are organized, adaptable, and collaborative. They are comfortable balancing administrative work with hands‑on classroom support, communicating with staff and families, and responding to changing program needs. Strong attention to detail and leadership skills are important.
What are some jobs that people had earlier in their careers?
People in this role often previously worked as:
People in this role often previously worked as:
- Lead Teacher
- Early Head Start or Head Start Teacher
- Education or Program Coordinator
What are some jobs that people in this role have later in their careers?
With experience, people in this role may move into:
With experience, people in this role may move into:
- Head Start Director
- Early Childhood Program Administrator
- Senior Program or Agency Leadership Roles
- Personas