Head Start Compliance Specialist

Position Function:

The Compliance Specialist is responsible for ensuring program compliance with Head Start Program Performance Standards, federal and state regulations, licensing requirements, university policies, and grant requirements. The position supports program accountability by maintaining compliance systems, coordinating internal compliance reviews, tracking corrective actions, preparing for federal monitoring reviews and audits, and promoting adherence to established policies and procedures.

Please see Staff Compensation Structure or Skilled Crafts and Service Maintenance Compensation Schedule for salary ranges. For salary grade UC, these positions are "Unclassified" and salary ranges are determined by the hiring department.

October 2026.

The Compliance Specialist is responsible for coordinating and supporting program-wide regulatory compliance activities to ensure adherence to Head Start Program Performance Standards, federal and state regulations, university policies, grant requirements, and program procedures. This position works collaboratively with leadership and management staff to maintain compliance systems, coordinate internal compliance reviews, track corrective actions, support audit readiness, and ensure ongoing adherence to program requirements.

• Coordinate and support the implementation of the program's regulatory compliance and accountability systems.
• Monitor compliance with Head Start Program Performance Standards, Head Start Act requirements, federal regulations, state licensing requirements, and university policies.
• Conduct internal compliance reviews and site visits to assess compliance and program performance.
• Develop, maintain, and update compliance checklists, protocols, and compliance tracking systems.
• Collect, review, and analyze documentation to ensure accuracy, completeness, and regulatory compliance.
• Track findings, areas of noncompliance, corrective actions, and follow-up activities to ensure timely resolution.
• Prepare monitoring reports, summaries, corrective action plans, and compliance-related documentation for leadership review.
• Maintain organized and accessible compliance records and documentation to support audits, reviews, and federal monitoring visits.
• Assist program leadership with preparing for federal reviews, audits, licensing inspections, and other compliance assessments.
• Collaborate with managers and coordinators to identify compliance risks and develop strategies for improvement.
• Monitor deadlines and reporting requirements to ensure timely submission of required documentation.
• Support the development, review, and implementation of policies, procedures, and internal controls that promote compliance and accountability.
• Provide technical assistance and guidance to staff regarding compliance requirements and program procedures.
• Assist with staff training and professional development related to compliance requirements and regulatory expectations.
• Review documentation for compliance with applicable regulations and program requirements and communicate findings to program leadership.
• Maintain confidentiality of sensitive employee, child, family, and program information.
• Participate in required meetings, trainings, professional development activities, and compliance monitoring activities.
• Work collaboratively with program leadership and service area managers to support program effectiveness and operational excellence.

The above essential duties are representative of major duties in this position. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary based on departmental needs. Other duties may be assigned to the above, consistent with the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for…