Nurse

City of Chattanooga • Chattanooga, TN

4h • Onsite

About The Position

Chattanooga Head Start is a grant-funded program, subject to reapplication every 5 years. The Head Start Nurse supports the health and wellness of enrolled children and families by providing health assessments, ensuring compliance with Head Start Performance Standards, coordinating health services, and promoting a safe, healthy learning environment. This role works collaboratively with families, staff, community providers, and program administrators to ensure that every child receives comprehensive health services.

Requirements

• Graduation from an accredited LPN program minimum required.
• Currently licensed/registered in the State of TN or Compact State License in state of residence.
• Must maintain a minimum active Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse (LPN/LVN) license in good standing throughout employment.
• Any combination of equivalent experience and education to perform the essential functions of the position will be considered.
• Knowledge of child and family health, which includes prevention concepts, and an interest in learning skills such as hearing and vision testing.
• Intermediate knowledge of computer applications, word-processing software in a Windows environment and ability to learn and master other computer technology /software as needed.
• Knowledge of diseases and disease processes.
• Knowledge of Head Start Performance Standards.
• Knowledge of health, human development, community health, nursing principles, practices and procedures.
• Knowledge of HIPPA/FERPA laws as it relates to student records.
• Ability to recognize problems in the area of health and/or child safety.
• Ability to relate well and maintain effective working relationships with staff, children, parents and other agencies.
• Ability to exercise professional judgment in evaluating before making decisions and maintain all information in strict confidence.
• Able to work effectively in a team environment.
• Ability to work on databases, and spreadsheets.
• Ability to carry out oral and written directions; write correspondence independently; make routine decisions; communicate effectively; establish and maintain cooperative working relationships; be flexible and receptive to change.
• Ability to work creatively and skillfully with children.

Nice To Haves

• Graduation from an accredited RN program is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate with Family Support Professionals to ensure every child completes their physical and dental exams within 90 days of enrollment.
• Perform vision, hearing, and growth screenings within 45 days of enrollment, per Head Start Performance Standards (HSPS).
• Monitor and maintain Individual Health Plans (IHPs) for children with chronic medical conditions, collaborating with parents and healthcare providers and training staff on their implementation.
• Monitor all classroom first-aid kits for completeness and ensure medications are stored correctly, with proper documentation logged in the ChildPlus system.
• Obtain and review children's health histories and immunization records to ensure they are up-to-date.
• Maintain comprehensive and strictly confidential health records for all enrolled children.
• Utilize the ChildPlus system to monitor health requirements, track follow-ups, and generate required reports.
• Communicate effectively with parents regarding their child's health status, providing education and follow-up information after screenings.
• Provide referral assistance to families, helping them connect with community health resources.
• Assist families with the logistics of scheduling necessary medical and dental appointments.
• Occasionally provide health-related training and support during parent meetings.
• Provide technical support and assistance to the Health Manager for parent meetings, the Head Start Policy Council, and advisory committees.
• Train staff on health practices, including medication administration, first aid, CPR procedures, and management of health conditions (e.g., asthma, EpiPen use).
• Perform all duties within the professional scope of practice for a Licensed Practical Nurse to support the Head Start/Early Head Start Health component.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Competitive Compensation: Robust pay scales that reflect our commitment to our staff.
• Work-Life Balance: Generous paid time off and flexible scheduling where possible.
• Exceptional Wellness: Comprehensive health benefits and wellness programs designed for you and your family that deliver savings to you beyond your paycheck, featuring a centralized health clinic and pharmacy for all City employees.
• Growth: A focus on professional development and upward mobility within the organization.
• The Great Outdoors: Your Backyard Playground: Chattanooga isn't just near nature, it's immersed in it. As one of the most biodiverse cities in North America, the "Scenic City" offers an ecological richness that few places on earth can claim. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie or a weekend wanderer, world-class adventure is always less than an hour away.
• Vertical Adventures: Scale legendary sandstone cliffs in what is widely considered the premier rock climbing hub of the Southeast.
• Water & Rapids: From the high-octane whitewater kayaking of the Ocoee River to world-class bass fishing and peaceful paddling on the Tennessee River.
• Trails for Miles: Explore a massive network of mountain biking and hiking trails that wind through lush ridges, hidden waterfalls, and deep river gorges.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees