Description

ICF is seeking an experienced early childhood professional to serve as Research and Content Lead for the National Center on Head Start Early Learning, Health, and Family Engagement (ELHFE). This position will manage the work of researchers and other collaborators responsible for research and resource development. The Research and Content Lead will ensure that all content produced aligns with the Office of Head Start priorities, is evidence-based, and meets high standards of quality and cultural responsiveness. 

The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in early childhood education, child development, health, and family engagement, as well as experience managing complex projects involving multiple partners. This role requires strong leadership, editorial oversight, and the ability to coordinate across teams to ensure timely delivery of high-quality resources. The Research and Content Lead reports to the Project Director and works closely with internal staff, external partners, and federal stakeholders. 

This position is home-based with up to 20% travel for partner meetings, conferences, and related events. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee the work of partners and other collaborators responsible for research and content development. 
• Ensure all content aligns with Head Start Program Performance Standards, the Early Learning Outcomes Framework, and federal priorities. 
• Review and approve drafts, ensuring accuracy, clarity, and adherence to internal quality standards and client expectations. 
• Coordinate development of resources, tools, and training materials that support early learning, health, and family engagement. 
• Manage timelines and deliverables for content-related tasks, ensuring compliance with the approved project work plan. 
• Provide guidance and feedback to partners and internal staff to maintain consistency and quality across all materials. 
• Collaborate with the Project Director and other team leads to integrate content development with broader project activities. 
• Support the creation of dissemination plans for resources, including digital platforms and national training events. 
• Stay current on emerging research, best practices, and innovations in early childhood education and family engagement. 
• Build strong, positive relationships with partners and stakeholders to foster collaboration and shared problem-solving. 
• Participate in regular leadership meetings and contribute to strategic planning for content development. 
• Ensure culturally and linguistically responsive practices are embedded in all resources and materials. 
• Monitor progress and provide regular updates to the Project Director on content development activities. 
• Assist in preparing reports, presentations, and other documentation for the federal client. 
• Participate in national meetings and conferences as needed to represent the content development arm of the project. 

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, child development, education, public policy, or related field. 
• 8+ years of experience in early childhood education or related field, including:  experience developing research-based resources for early learning, health, and family engagement.  Prior experience managing projects with multiple partners or subcontractors.  Strong understanding of Head Start Program Performance Standards and related federal regulations. 
• Min of 1 year of experience with reviewing and editing complex content for clarity, accuracy, and compliance. 
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and project management tools such as Smartsheet. 

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in early childhood education, child development, or related field. 
• Experience managing partnerships or research collaborations. 
• Familiarity with instructional design and adult learning principles. 
• Experience developing culturally responsive resources for diverse populations. 
• Strong analytic, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. 

Professional Skills :

• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills. 
• Ability to multitask and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. 
• High level of professionalism, discretion, and sound judgment. 
• Strong relationship-building skills with internal teams and external partners. 
• Ability to work effectively in a virtual environment. 

Working at ICF

Pay Range - There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position, including, but not limited to, relevant work experience, skills, certifications and competencies that align to the specified role, geographic location, education and certifications as well as contract provisions regarding labor categories that are specific to the position.

The pay range for this position based on full-time employment is: