Child Development Manager

🌟

We're Hiring:

Child Development Manager Location:

Providence, RI Reports To:

Deputy Director of Head Start Employment Type:

Full-Time (Monday - Friday, 8 hour shifts) Are you a passionate early childhood leader ready to make a lasting impact on children and families? Join Children s Friend and help shape high-quality, inclusive early learning environments that empower Rhode Island s most vulnerable communities. We re looking for a Child Development Manager who thrives in leadership, collaboration, and innovation-someone who can guide teams, elevate program quality, and ensure every child gets the strong start they deserve. 💡 Why This Role Matters In this role, you ll be at the heart of our Head Start and Early Head Start programs , leading child development operations and supporting a team dedicated to excellence in early education. Your work will directly influence school readiness, family engagement, and lifelong outcomes for children. 🧩 What You ll

Do:

Leadership & Strategy Lead and oversee child development operations across Head Start and Early Head Start programs Supervise and mentor Child Development Supervisors through reflective, growth-focused leadership Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement Program Excellence & Compliance Ensure full compliance with Head Start Performance Standards and childcare licensing requirements Maintain safe, developmentally appropriate classroom environments Oversee curriculum implementation and classroom materials Family & Community Impact Champion meaningful parent engagement and family-centered services Partner with internal teams and community organizations to support holistic family needs Address parent concerns with empathy and professionalism Team Development & Operations Support hiring, training, and evaluation of early childhood staff Participate in case management and cross-functional team meetings Contribute to grant writing, budgeting, and program development 🧠

What You Bring:

Bachelor s or Master s degree in Early Childhood Education, Education, or Special Education (or RIDE certification) Proven leadership experience in early childhood settings Experience working with at-risk children and families Strong knowledge of curriculum design and implementation Exceptional communication, organizational, and leadership skills Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment Bonus if you have: Experience with Head Start programs Background in supervision and staff development Grant writing or program funding experience 🌱 Why Join Children s Friend? At Children s Friend, we believe every child deserves a strong start. As part of our team, you ll have the chance to grow professionally, contribute meaningfully, and be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace where your efforts matter every day. 🔒 Equal Opportunity Employer We are committed to equity and diversity in the workplace. If you require accommodations during the application process, please contact us at talent@cfsri.org . Children s Friend offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes the following: Medical Dental and Vision coverage Employer contributions to the 403(b) plan Employer-paid Life and Disability insurance Flex Spending Accounts 12 Holidays Competitive Vacation Benefits Training and Professional Development Education Assistance Student Loan Repayment Assistance