Early Childhood Specialist

Blue Ridge Community Action•Lenoir, NC

78d•$16 - $19

About The Position

The Early Childhood Specialist III provides leadership within the classroom and is responsible for planning, implementing, and maintaining a high-quality learning environment for children. Leads classroom operations, ensures compliance with program standards, and supports the development of classroom staff.

Requirements

Demonstrates strong knowledge of early childhood development and classroom practices
Demonstrates understanding of NC child care licensing requirements and Head Start Performance Standards
Leads classroom operations, curriculum implementation, and daily activities
Supervises and supports classroom staff
Maintains accurate documentation, assessments, and compliance requirements
Communicates effectively with children, families, and staff
Supports children’s development, learning, and school readiness goals
Maintains a safe, structured, and high-quality classroom environment
Manages classroom routines and multiple priorities effectively
Uses sound judgment and demonstrates professionalism
Demonstrates strong computer and data entry skills, including program systems
Must meet North Carolina child care and Head Start licensing requirements for assigned position, including required TB test, physical examination, NC qualifying letter, and applicable documentation
CPR and First Aid certification required or obtained within the required timeframe
One (1) year verifiable day care experience with children, birth to 5 years old.
Ability to work as part of a team
Ability to interact professionally with children, families, staff, and external partners
Must pass a criminal background check and substance abuse screening
Ability to maintain confidentiality of child and family information
Ability to lead classroom staff and support team development
Ability to stay organized and meet deadlines
Dependable and consistent
Ability to work flexible hours as needed

Responsibilities

Plan and implement age-appropriate curriculum and classroom activities
Lead daily classroom operations, including routines, transitions, and supervision of children
Ensure compliance with NC licensing, Head Start Performance Standards, NC Pre-K, CACFP, and agency policies
Maintain a safe, clean, and organized classroom environment
Supervise, support, and mentor classroom staff
Maintain accurate attendance and document absences
Observe, document, and assess children’s development, behavior, and health concerns
Complete required documentation and data entry in ChildPlus (or assigned system)
Conduct screenings and ongoing assessments as required
Develop and follow lesson plans aligned with program standards
Support children’s individual learning needs, including IEP/IFSP requirements
Conduct home visits and provide referrals based on family needs as assigned
Communicate regularly and professionally with families
Support family engagement activities and program requirements
Monitor attendance and follow up on attendance concerns
Maintain accurate records and submit required documentation on time
Meet or exceed CLASS performance standards
Support onboarding and training of new staff
Participate in required trainings and professional development
Maintain confidentiality of child and family information
May be assigned to assist or temporarily fill in within other classrooms, age groups, or centers as needed to maintain ratios, supervision, and program operations
Perform other related duties as assigned