EHS Family Engagement Specialist

HumanKind•Lynchburg, VA

10d•$20 - $24•Hybrid

About The Position

Are you passionate about supporting families and advocating for the well-being of children? Do you believe in the power of strong family engagement in early childhood development? If so, we invite you to apply for the Family Engagement Specialist position at HumanKind’s Early Head Start (EHS) program! The Family Engagement Specialist (FES) plays a vital role in strengthening family engagement and supporting parents as their child’s first and most important teacher. This position involves case management, community advocacy, and collaboration with families and educators to promote learning, resilience, and family well-being. The FES helps families navigate enrollment, supports goal-setting, and ensures compliance with Head Start Program Performance Standards (HSPPS). The ideal candidate will be highly organized, culturally responsive, and able to build strong, trust-based relationships with families and community partners. This role requires teamwork, independent problem-solving, and a deep commitment to equity and inclusion.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in social work, family services, or related degree.
1 year of experience working with marginalized or vulnerable populations; Bachelor’s degree of Social Work or human services preferred.
Valid US driver’s license and acceptable driving record.

Nice To Haves

Strong relationship-building skills and a commitment to family-centered engagement.
Ability to work independently while also collaborating within multiple teams.
Experience in case management, family advocacy, or social services preferred.
Knowledge of early childhood education and Head Start Program Performance Standards is a plus.
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Proficiency in ChildPlus, Procare, or other case management software preferred.
Bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply!

Responsibilities

Manage program eligibility, recruitment, enrollment, attendance, and transitions (ERSEA-T) for families with children ages 0-3, ensuring compliance with Head Start Program Performance Standards.
Provide trauma-informed case management and goal-oriented partnerships with families to promote child development, resilience, and overall family well-being.
Develop and maintain relationships with community organizations to connect families with resources in education, health, mental health, crisis intervention, and social services.
Support family engagement through volunteering opportunities, parent committees, and an evidence-based parenting curriculum that fosters child learning and safety.
Utilize ChildPlus and other data management systems to track family outcomes, ensure program integrity, and support continuous quality improvement.
Assist with classroom coverage in emergency situations, participate in professional development, and maintain required training to support program needs.