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State of Rhode Island, Recovery Friendly Workplace , Helping employers respond to substance use and mental health conditions in the Rhode Island workforce

ERSEA Specialist – Head Start (Full-Time)

Company Name
East Bay Community Action Program
Remote Position
No
Job Type
Full Time
Location
Newport, RI

What You’ll Do

ERSEA Systems & Compliance

  • Own and maintain ERSEA systems to ensure compliance with Head Start Program Performance Standards (HSPPS 1302.12–1302.16)
  • Ensure accuracy, security, and completeness of ERSEA data in ChildPlus and related systems
  • Analyze enrollment, eligibility, recruitment, and attendance data to identify trends and drive improvement
  • Contribute to annual community assessment and program self-assessment processes

Eligibility, Recruitment & Enrollment

  • Oversee eligibility verification and documentation for applicants
  • Conduct eligibility appointments with families as needed
  • Lead development and implementation of the annual Recruitment Plan
  • Coordinate outreach efforts and community recruitment events
  • Apply selection criteria and manage enrollment to ensure vacancies are filled promptly
  • Communicate selection outcomes with families and connect them to community resources as needed

Attendance & Reporting

  • Implement and monitor attendance policies and procedures
  • Conduct weekly attendance reviews and lead monthly Attendance Team meetings
  • Collaborate with staff to address attendance barriers and support families
  • Prepare and share regular reports with leadership and Policy Council

Training & Collaboration

  • Provide training, coaching, and technical assistance to staff on ERSEA policies, procedures, and systems
  • Build strong partnerships with community organizations to support recruitment and engagement
  • Stay current on Head Start regulations and best practices

What We’re Looking For

  • Highly organized and detail-oriented with strong data management skills
  • Confident translating complex regulations into clear, usable processes
  • Strong communicator who builds trust with families, staff, and partners
  • Comfortable managing multiple priorities and deadlines
  • Commitment to confidentiality, equity, and family-centered practice

Minimum Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent (relevant experience may substitute for education)
  • Experience with eligibility determination, enrollment management, or data systems in a federally funded program preferred
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office; experience with ChildPlus strongly preferred
  • Valid driver’s license and ability to travel between Head Start locations
  • Availability for occasional evening or weekend recruitment events

Preferred Qualifications

  • Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Early Childhood Education, Public Administration, or related field
  • Experience with Head Start or Early Head Start ERSEA functions
  • Knowledge of Head Start Performance Standards and DCYF licensing requirements
  • Bilingual in Spanish, Portuguese, Cape Verdean Creole, or Haitian Creole

Position Details

  • Status: Full-Time (30–40 hours/week)
  • Pay Range: $19.00–$27.00/hour (based on experience)
  • Work Environment: In-person; travel required across Head Start sites
  • Funding: Grant-funded, multi-year position

Why Join EBCAP?

  • Make a real impact by expanding access to early childhood education for families who need it most
  • Join a collaborative, mission-driven organization rooted in the community
  • Competitive benefits including medical, dental, retirement match, generous paid time off, and mileage reimbursement
  • Tuition reimbursement, paid training, and professional development opportunities

Ready to Apply?

If you’re passionate about equity, data-driven systems, and supporting children and families, we’d love to hear from you. Apply today and help EBCAP build strong foundations for lifelong success.