Fiscal Reviewer Consultant; Head Start Monitoring

Position: Fiscal Reviewer Consultant (Head Start Monitoring)

The Fiscal Reviewer Consultant supports the federal monitoring of Head Start and Early Head Start grant recipients by conducting fiscal, administrative, and management reviews in accordance with OHS monitoring protocols. Consultants are responsible for analyzing fiscal systems and practices, collecting and documenting evidence, and contributing to accurate, high-quality monitoring reports using OHS-designated tools and systems.

Fiscal Reviewer Consultants work as members of multidisciplinary review teams under the leadership of an onsite Manhattan Strategy Group Monitoring Support Lead.

MSG specializes in delivering innovative solutions in program management, training and technical assistance, research and evaluation, marketing and communications, and IT and digital services to a range of federal clients, including extensive experience with the Departments of Health and Human Services, Labor, and Education. Join MSG and be part of a collaborative, growth-oriented firm that values excellence and impact.

Engagement Type

Part‑Time Consultant (As Needed)
Travel:
Required (Nationwide)

Core Duties and Responsibilities Training and Readiness

• Complete all required virtual training prior to participation in monitoring reviews to gain proficiency in monitoring processes, protocols, reporting systems, and related resources.
• Participate in all required competency‑based professional development and refresher trainings, including:
  • Head Start Program Performance Standards (HSPPS)
  • Monitoring process updates
  • Reporting and database systems
  • Applicable federal fiscal requirements and guidance

Fiscal, Administrative, and Management Review

• Conduct fiscal reviews of Head Start and Early Head Start grant recipients to assess compliance with federal fiscal and administrative requirements.
• Analyze grantee organizational structures across entity types (e.g., nonprofit organizations, Local Educational Agencies, community action agencies, single‑purpose entities) to understand fiscal governance and management systems.
• Assess how fiscal and administrative systems support program operations and services, including school readiness, family engagement, health and safety, fiscal oversight, and services for children with disabilities.
• Review the role of governing bodies and policy groups in fiscal and administrative decision‑making and oversight.

Data Analysis and Evidence Collection

• Review and analyze a broad range of fiscal, administrative, and programmatic data sources and documentation using standardized monitoring tools.
• Obtain, synthesize, and critically evaluate complex information to understand program performance and identify root causes of fiscal or administrative challenges.
• Analyze how grantees use data to support continuous improvement and align fiscal resources with identified service needs and community assessments.

Interviews, Documentation, and Reporting

• Conduct interviews and document reviews as part of onsite and virtual monitoring activities.
• Collect, document, and enter all required data and evidence into OHS‑designated monitoring software systems.
• Develop clear, concise, and evidence‑based narrative summaries describing findings, concerns, and issues in accordance with current monitoring protocols.
• Ensure all documentation and narratives align with monitoring standards and accurately reflect evidence collected during the review.

Team Collaboration and Professional Standards

• Collaborate with multidisciplinary review teams to ensure consistent implementation of monitoring protocols.
• Maintain objectivity, confidentiality, and professionalism throughout all monitoring activities.
• Remain current on changes to federal rules, regulations, and guidance affecting Head Start and Early Head Start programs.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Accounting, Finance, or a related field, with a minimum of 12 college‑level accounting credits
  .
• At least three (3) years of experience in fiscal management, auditing, monitoring, or oversight of federally funded programs.
• Demonstrated knowledge of federal fiscal requirements and compliance standards.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to synthesize complex information.
• Strong written…