Head Start Teacher

Maricopa County Human Services Department (HSD) is a committed organization dedicated to building resiliency and promoting the well-being of residents experiencing adversity through numerous supportive programs and services. These initiatives help individuals and families thrive by addressing needs such as early childhood education, housing, homeownership, services for seniors and adults with disabilities, career development for job seekers facing barriers to employment, crisis rental and utility assistance, and homelessness support. With a strong reputation for innovation and community collaboration, HSD received 23 Achievement Awards in 2025 from the National Association of Counties, underscoring its leadership in serving diverse and vulnerable populations.

HSD’s Early Education Division plays a crucial role in preparing young children for school success and lifelong learning by delivering comprehensive services in early learning, health, and family well-being. Head Start, a central program within the division, primarily serves 3- and 4-year-olds, while Early Head Start supports infants, toddlers, and pregnant women. These programs emphasize engaging parents as partners in the educational journey, ensuring children are well-equipped with essential developmental skills.

The Head Start Teacher position is a contractor role with benefits, offering an annual salary range of $40,000 to $59,800 dependent on experience and internal equity. The role involves promoting active learning within a preschool classroom by designing and executing developmentally appropriate, individualized experiences that foster cognitive growth. Teachers cultivate a nurturing, safe environment where children develop language, literacy, and social skills through evidence-based, cognitive-developmental approaches.

This position stands out due to its favorable teacher-to-student ratio of 1:10 and the provision of all necessary classroom supplies by the county, enabling educators to focus fully on instructional delivery and child engagement. The role also extends beyond direct teaching to encompass parent education, family support, and engagement activities that empower families to participate actively in their children’s education.

Head Start Teachers receive extensive professional development opportunities, including paid continuing education, tuition reimbursement, and child development certification support (such as the CDA - Child Development Association Certification). Candidates lacking credentials are encouraged to apply for Teaching Assistant roles, providing a pathway to grow into teaching positions while earning certification. Furthermore, Maricopa County covers fingerprint clearance costs, offers competitive health and wellness benefits including pet insurance, and supports staff through memberships and wellness incentives.

This is a unique opportunity for individuals passionate about early childhood education and community service to make a tangible impact. Teachers in this role contribute to inclusive, culturally responsive curriculum design that respects diverse backgrounds and languages, upholding Head Start’s commitment to equity and family partnership. They take responsibility for child safety, classroom management, and community collaboration, reinforcing a holistic approach to early childhood development.

Maricopa County Human Services fosters exceptional work-life balance, career growth within the county system, affordable healthcare, childcare benefits including access to the on-site Maricopa County Kids Club, and a generous retirement system with employer contributions starting from day one. This environment encourages dedicated professionals to excel as they help shape the future of children and families in one of Arizona’s most dynamic counties.