LOCATION: To be determined based on the needs of the program.

PROGRAM: Birth-to-Five Head Start

EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Non-exempt

DEPARTMENT: EHS Education

JOB CLASSIFICATION: Regular, Part-time

REPORTS TO: Site Base Manager

WORKING HOURS: Monday – Friday

SUPERVISES: None

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

This position requires the individual to care for infants and toddlers while substituting in the classroom during lunch breaks and/or when staff is out. Responsible for assisting the Child Development Specialist (CDS) staff in the day-to-day care of children. Part-time hours vary between 8:00 and 2:00 p.m. Monday – Friday.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

Maintains open lines of communications with immediate supervisor, parents, and all Head Start Staff.

Assists CDS in implementing daily lesson plans inside/outside the classrooms and allows ample time for both spontaneous activities by children and blocks of time for adult-directed activities.

Assists CDS in documenting children's files daily on class attendance, nutrition monitoring, health monitoring, etc.

Reports to CDS his/her observations on individual children and reinforces classroom and environmental safety.

Assumes role of CDS when primary caregiver is on break or absent.

Involves parents in educational activities to enhance their role as the principal influence on the child's education and development.

Provides materials and activities appropriate to the child's age and level of development.

Assists children through regular periods of physical activity (both indoor and outdoor) using materials and experiences designed to develop muscles, eye-hand coordination, body awareness, and rhythm & movement.

Serves the cultural relevant background of the children using classroom materials, activities and related languages.

Participates in staff development in-service training.

Makes evaluations based on measurable or verifiable data.

Promotes a high self-esteem, is a good role model, and follows agency's behavior management system and code of ethics.

Performs other duties as assigned by immediate supervisor, Child Development Coordinator, or Director of Birth to Five Head Start.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience:

Requires GED or High School diploma.

Must obtain CDA and continue formal education when possible.

Must successfully complete and maintain the following permits, and certifications:

a) Food Handlers Permit; will need to be renewed every two (2) years by expiration date

b) First Aid certification; will need to be renewed every two (2) years by expiration date

c) CPR Infant/Toddler certification; will need to be renewed every two (2) years by expiration date

Bilingual ability in English and Spanish preferred but not required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Demonstrates ability to read and write, keeps routine records, follows written and oral instructions, and files alphabetically and numerically.

Makes judgments or decisions based on sensory or judgmental criteria – relies on one or more of the five physical senses.

Deals with people beyond giving and receiving instructions--is courteous, cooperative, conscientious, and tactful in dealing with employees and the general public.

Performs job duties in a precise, thorough, and meticulous manner.

Possesses sensitivity towards families living below the socioeconomic level.

Able to handle various projects at the same time in an effective manner.

Dresses in appropriate attire with a neat personal appearance.

Ability to maintain regular and punctual attendance.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Requires 24 clock hours of training annually to meet TDPRS requirements.

Must successfully pass a pre-employment drug test, physical and functional capacity evaluation prior to first day of employment

Must successfully pass a criminal background check.

Must successfully pass and submit a pre-employment TB test and periodically as indicated by the regional Texas Department of State Health Services or local health authority.

Must possess a valid Texas Driver's license (Operators-Class C) and driving record must be approved by insurance company on an annual basis.

Must have transportation and current liability coverage on vehicle to be used in the performance of job duties. Some out of town travel may be required.

Proof of work eligibility must be provided.