Eligibility, Recruitment, Selection, Enrollment & Attendance (ERSEA) Specialist

Key Responsibilities

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

Qualifications

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

Benefits

• 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

About
East Bay Community Action Program (EBCAP) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that provides high-quality, comprehensive, and accessible health and human services to people across eastern Rhode Island. Founded as part of President Johnson's War on Poverty in 1965, EBCAP now serves ten communities with over 20 distinct programs — including primary medical and dental care, behavioral health services, early childhood education, and community support programs for children, youth, families, adults, and seniors.Our 521 employees work across more than ten locations, addressing everything from immediate needs like food and housing to long-term health and wellness. If you are looking to make a meaningful impact on the lives of Rhode Islanders, we encourage you to apply.