Child Development Specialist
About The Position
At Father Joe’s Villages, Therapeutic Childcare supports children and families experiencing homelessness by providing safe, nurturing, and developmentally supportive care. Our team creates structured, trauma-informed classroom environments that promote growth, stability, and resilience for children of all ages. This role directly supports our mission to strengthen families and help children thrive while their caregivers work toward long-term stability. The Child Development Specialist provides classroom supervision, instruction, and developmental support in a State-licensed Therapeutic Childcare program. This role ensures the safety and well-being of children while partnering with a multidisciplinary team to support each child’s behavioral and developmental needs.
Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- At least 12 units of early childhood education or child development, including courses in: Child growth and development, Family, child, and community relationships, Infant/toddler development
- Curriculum planning
- One (1) year of experience working as a teacher in a licensed childcare center
- Pediatric First Aid and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification
- Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office or similar programs
- Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and current vehicle insurance
- Ability to pass fingerprinting and background checks
Responsibilities
- Provide safe, attentive care for children of all ages, including feeding, diapering, toilet training, transitions, play, and age-appropriate activities
- Develop and implement weekly lesson plans that support children’s growth, learning, and resilience
- Maintain a positive, structured classroom environment that supports healthy behavior and development
- Complete monthly developmental assessments and help identify therapeutic supports when needed
- Communicate regularly with parents or caregivers about children’s progress and needs
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to support behavioral and developmental planning
- Assist with supervision and daily direction of interns and volunteers
- Participate in staff meetings, program reviews, and Therapeutic Childcare events
- Meet regularly with supervisors to review program successes and challenges
- Maintain daily attendance records and support meal and snack routines
- Ensure accurate and timely documentation in required databases and case note systems
- Maintain a clean, organized, and age-appropriate classroom environment
- Follow all licensing regulations, program policies, and safety procedures
- Complete required trainings, health screenings, and compliance activities on time
- Perform other duties as assigned to support program needs
Benefits
- medical coverage
- dental coverage
- vision coverage
- retirement plan options
- generous paid time off
- professional development opportunities
- wellness programs
- Employee Assistance Program
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
