Job Title

Enrollment Specialist (Head Start)

Expected Annual Pay (Texas)

$45,000

Average salary range

Job Outlook (Texas)

+14%

Employment growth

Level of Education Required

Most employers require a high school diploma or associate degree, while some prefer a bachelor's degree in social work, human services, business administration, education, or a related field.

Minimum requirement

Credentials or Licenses Required

There is no specific Texas license or credential required for this role. Training related to eligibility determination, family services, case management, data systems, or customer service may be preferred by some employers.

Licenses / Certificates

Work Experience Typically Required

Many Enrollment Specialists have experience in administrative support, customer service, family services, community outreach, case management, or early childhood programs. Experience working with documentation, recordkeeping, and families from diverse backgrounds is often preferred.

Related experience needed

What is this role responsible for day to day?

An enrollment specialist working in a Head Start program is responsible for recruiting and enrolling eligible children and supporting families through the enrollment process in accordance with Head Start Performance Standards. Day‑to‑day responsibilities may include:

  • Recruiting and enrolling eligible children and families into Head Start programs
  • Verifying eligibility documentation such as income, residency, and age
  • Maintaining accurate enrollment records and case files
  • Coordinating with families to complete required forms and screenings
  • Monitoring enrollment levels to ensure program compliance
  • Collaborating with program staff and community partners to support family engagement

Career Snapshots

Explore different career paths within education and find the one that fits your passion

Joselyn

Joselyn

Joselyn began her career as an administrative assistant for a community nonprofit and discovered that she enjoyed helping families access services. After gaining experience managing records and supporting enrollment efforts, she moved into a Head Start Enrollment Specialist role. She enjoys being one of the first people families meet when joining the program and hopes to become a Family Services Manager in the future.

Terrence

Terrence

Terrence started in community outreach, connecting families with local resources and support programs. His experience building relationships and navigating eligibility requirements led him to a role as an Enrollment Specialist. He plans to remain in this role long-term because he enjoys helping families access opportunities while balancing relationship-building with detailed administrative work.

Nadia

Nadia

Nadia entered the field through a family support position at an early childhood organization. As she learned more about enrollment processes, compliance requirements, and data systems, she became interested in program operations. She enjoys ensuring that eligible children and families can access services and would like to eventually move into a program coordinator or administrator role.

What are some skills or personal traits that people in this role typically have?

People in this role are detail‑oriented, organized, and relationship‑focused. They are comfortable working with families from diverse backgrounds and navigating eligibility rules and documentation requirements.

What are some jobs that people had earlier in their careers?

People in this role often previously worked as:

What are some jobs that people had earlier in their careers?

  • People in this role often previously worked as:
  • Family Support or Case Management Staff
  • Administrative Assistant
  • Early Childhood Program Support Staff

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:

  • Program Administrator or Coordinator
  • Family Engagement or Community Outreach Roles
  • Early Head Start or Head Start Management Positions