Program Manager, ECE Inclusion

Job Description:

Program Manager, ECE Inclusion

Description

Description

The Inclusion Program Manager leads the development and implementation of countywide strategies that support inclusive early learning environments for young children. This role works closely with internal teams and community partners across early care and education, health, and early intervention systems to strengthen early identification, referrals, and inclusive practices. The position oversees complex initiatives, manages staff and partnerships, and uses data to guide program improvement and advance equitable outcomes for children and families.

• Lead the planning and implementation of a countywide early childhood inclusion initiative in collaboration with internal teams and community partners.
• Develop and expand strategies that strengthen early identification, referral pathways, and inclusive practices across early learning settings.
• Manage complex projects by developing timelines, tracking progress, and ensuring milestones and deliverables are achieved.
• Coordinate work across internal teams and external partners to align efforts and improve support for young children and families.
• Supervise staff and manage contractor relationships to ensure high-quality program implementation and accountability.
• Use program data and evaluation findings to guide decision-making, improve programs, and report outcomes to leadership and stakeholders.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in program management, systems building, or administration within early childhood, education, public health, family support, or a related field.
• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Special Education, Public Health, Public Administration, or a related field.
• Additional relevant experience may substitute for the educational requirement.

Travel within Alameda County is required. Occasional travel outside the county may also be necessary.

Knowledge of:

• Early childhood systems, including early care and education, early identification and intervention, and family support services.
• Inclusive practices that support young children with diverse developmental and learning needs.
• Program and project management, including planning, implementation, and evaluation.
• Public sector practices such as budgeting, contract management, and grant administration.
• Federal, state, and local regulations and best practices related to early childhood services.

Ability to:

• Lead and manage complex initiatives involving multiple partners and stakeholders.
• Supervise staff, set clear goals, and support team development.
• Analyze program data and use findings to guide program improvements.
• Manage multiple projects, priorities, and timelines effectively.
• Communicate clearly and build strong relationships with partners, staff, and community members.
• Prepare clear reports, documentation, and presentations.

Please note:

• We are currently working a hybrid 2 day per week in-office schedule and employees also come to the office to attend meetings and as requested.
• All First 5 employees must live and work in California.
• The salary range for this position is $99,000-$142,000 and as an independent government agency, the posted salary is the set salary range for this position. We cannot offer salaries above this posted range.
• We conduct reference and background checks for all potential employees.

About First 5 Alameda County

First 5 Alameda County believes every child in Alameda County should have optimal health, development, and well-being to reach their greatest potential. Through innovative programs and policy advocacy, we help provide children and their families access to resources that support their first five years of development.

Join our mission-driven team that in partnership with the community, supports a county-wide continuous prevention and early intervention system that promotes optimal health and development, narrows disparities, and improves peak years of child development.

 

First 5 Alameda County Benefits

We offer a comprehensive benefits package with health care options to meet the diverse needs of our employees and their families. These benefits include but are not limited to Medical, Dental, & Vision Coverage, $1,500 credit per year to spend on benefits, Health and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), Employer Paid & Voluntary Life & AD&D Insurance, Long-Term Disability Insurance, Retirement Plans including the ACERA Pension Plan, Commuter Benefits, Employee Assistance Plan and more.

We also offer paid vacation, paid time off and sick time. We have 17 paid holidays including the week between Christmas Day and New Year's Day as paid time off.

Salary:

$99,000.00 - $142,000.00 Salary