Child Development Specialist

Kent County • Chestertown, MD

12d • Onsite

About The Position

The position relates to people of diverse educational, cultural and economic backgrounds. Essential Functions Functions listed are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position. Meets with Center participants to familiarize them with the Center and the Child Development program and completes all required paperwork. Assists with aggressive outreach and recruitment activities. Ensures that every child’s file is complete and accurate and that immunizations are up to date. Ensures that confidentiality of all records and conversations with and about participants is maintained. Maintains contact with key individuals in community agencies to facilitate referrals, makes referrals, and follows up as necessary on referrals. Provides formal and informal parenting education to families addressing specific developmental needs of their children. Oversees the health, safety, and well-being of all the children. Plans and implements a developmentally appropriate program for infants and toddlers, including screenings, assessments, and development of children's individual classroom plans. Demonstrates a sound knowledge of good teaching practices and of child growth and development. Reports directly to Center Director concerning Child Development Program and other job responsibilities. Functions as member of the Center program management team. Provides parents with information and support in their parenting role. Complete all required paperwork. Oversees all aspects of program development for infants and toddlers. Facilitates the smooth flow of the program and ensures its adherence to stated philosophy. Attends staff meetings and trainings required by sponsoring agency and Maryland Family Network (MFN). Performs other duties as required. Supervision: The position reports to the Director. The position supervises three department staff.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Special Education, Child Development, or a related field.
• Experience working with young children from birth through three years of age.
• One year of supervisory experience.
• Or equivalent technical training, education or experience.
• First Aid and CPR certification or complete certification within 30 days of hire.
• Ability to build and maintain effective relationships with advisory board members, state and local officials, private-sector partners, local organizations and community groups.
• Ability to write clearly and informatively; ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from staff, supervisors and stakeholders individually and in group settings.
• Represents the department professionally and effectively in both internal and external interactions.
• Manages difficult, sensitive or challenging situations successfully.
• Treats others with respect and consideration regardless of cultural background, status, or position.
• Exhibits objectivity and openness to others’ views.
• Builds commitment and supports employee growth and success.
• Demonstrates ability to create and work in a team-oriented environment.
• Builds morale and group commitment to goals and objectives.
• Demonstrates effective problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Displays original thinking and creativity.
• Develops innovative approaches and ideas.
• Presents ideas and information in a manner that is easily understood.
• Understands and contributes to evolving processes in response to changing communities and advances in technology.
• Effectively utilizes standard and advanced database software to write queries, develop relational databases, and run reports.
• Ability to perform Internet searches and conduct online correspondence.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Development preferred.

Responsibilities

• Meets with Center participants to familiarize them with the Center and the Child Development program and completes all required paperwork.
• Assists with aggressive outreach and recruitment activities.
• Ensures that every child’s file is complete and accurate and that immunizations are up to date.
• Ensures that confidentiality of all records and conversations with and about participants is maintained.
• Maintains contact with key individuals in community agencies to facilitate referrals, makes referrals, and follows up as necessary on referrals.
• Provides formal and informal parenting education to families addressing specific developmental needs of their children.
• Oversees the health, safety, and well-being of all the children.
• Plans and implements a developmentally appropriate program for infants and toddlers, including screenings, assessments, and development of children's individual classroom plans.
• Demonstrates a sound knowledge of good teaching practices and of child growth and development.
• Reports directly to Center Director concerning Child Development Program and other job responsibilities.
• Functions as member of the Center program management team.
• Provides parents with information and support in their parenting role.
• Complete all required paperwork.
• Oversees all aspects of program development for infants and toddlers.
• Facilitates the smooth flow of the program and ensures its adherence to stated philosophy.
• Attends staff meetings and trainings required by sponsoring agency and Maryland Family Network (MFN).
• Performs other duties as required.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level