Aptive seeks an experienced Program Reviewer with a strong background in educational program review
to support the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) Office of Head Start. The Reviewer plays a
crucial role in assessing and ensuring the quality and compliance of Head Start and Early Head Start
programs.

Working either on-site, virtually, or through desk reviews, the Reviewer is responsible for
examining program operations, collecting and analyzing documentation, and drafting initial monitoring
reports in alignment with the Head Start Program Performance Standards (HSPPS), Federal regulations,
and the Office of Head Start monitoring protocols. This role involves close collaboration with other
reviewers, team leads, contractor staff, and Federal officials to provide an accurate depiction of each
program’s compliance status and areas of improvement.

The ideal candidate has Head Start program expertise and is familiar with the Classroom Assessment
Scoring System review process. They have previous experience conducting program assessments and
are highly organized and systematic in their project work. They exceed client expectations with high-
quality work in a fast-paced environment.

• 5+ years of direct experience in Head Start, Early Head Start, or comparable early childhood
programs—ideally in compliance, administration, or quality assurance.
• Bachelor’s degree in a field related to Early Childhood Education, Social Work, Public
Administration, or a related field strongly preferred.

• Understanding of (or ability to rapidly learn) Head Start/Early Head Start regulations, including
Head Start Program Performance Standards, Improper Payment Review processes, and
Monetizing Disallowance procedures.
• Basic to intermediate proficiency with data systems (e.g., MS Office, cloud-based platforms);
ability to learn specialized tools (e.g., IT-AMS).
• Knowledge of CLASS®, fiscal monitoring, or health/safety regulations is a plus.
• Ability to review, interpret, and synthesize large volumes of qualitative and quantitative data to
make evidence-based conclusions.
• Consistent accuracy in note-taking, record-keeping, and report drafting; strong organizational
skills in digital environments.

• Clear and professional interpersonal communication; adept in interviewing and active listening.
• Effective team player comfortable working with diverse stakeholders and content-area
specialists, both in-person and virtually.
• Flexible in response to evolving schedules, last-minute changes, and different review contexts
(on-site, virtual, desk).
• Ability to travel (up to 50% or as necessary) to conduct on-site reviews, which may involve
flights, car rentals, overnight stays, and occasional weekend travel.
• Must pass any required background checks or security clearances as mandated by the contract.

Aptive is a management consulting firm based in Alexandria, Virginia. With more than 500 employees across the U.S., we primarily support the federal government – more than a dozen agencies like Veterans Affairs, Transportation, Defense, Library of Commerce, Customs and Border Protection and the National Science Foundation. Our work focuses on applying creativity, technology and human-centered services to improve performance, bridge divides and elevate the lives of millions of people who count on government. services every day. 

Aptive is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, parental status, veteran status, age, disability, or any other protected class.

Veterans, members of the Reserve and National Guard, and transitioning active-duty service members are highly encouraged to apply.