Child Development Manager

We're Hiring: Child Development Manager

Location: Providence, RI, Pawtucket, RI, Central Falls, RI (candidate will manage multiple sites in these areas) 
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
  • Take initiave with achievement oriented results

• 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.

• 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