REGULATORY SPECIALIST III; CHILDCARE LICENSING PROGRAM

State of Florida • Sarasota, FL

2d • $34,760 - $40,548 • Onsite

About The Position

This is a professional regulatory position in the Childcare Licensing Program, responsible for counseling, casework, and administrative activities. The specialist conducts licensing and regulatory work involving Family Day Care Homes, Large Family Childcare Homes, and Childcare Facilities within established time frames and in accordance with applicable Florida statutes, administrative rules, county ordinances, DCF handbooks and procedures, and the DOH Environmental Public Health Program Manual. The role requires daily in-office and/or field work and reports directly to the Environmental Supervisor I – SES.

The position is based at Environmental Health – North in Sarasota, Florida, and requires travel throughout Sarasota County. Incumbents may be required to perform emergency duty before, during, and/or beyond normal work hours or days.

Requirements

• Valid driver's license or ability to obtain one.
• Computer literacy and ability to use phones and office equipment.
• Knowledge of theories and practices in child protection and family support.
• Ability to plan, organize, and coordinate work assignments.
• Ability to actively listen and communicate effectively.
• Ability to maintain well-executed case files.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with children, family members, coworkers, and community partners.
• Ability to learn and communicate effectively in English, orally and in writing.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor's degree.
• Experience conducting inspections in childcare facilities.

Responsibilities

• Conduct inspections of childcare homes and facilities to determine compliance with applicable statutes, administrative rules, and licensing standards.
• Plan and track inspection activities to meet required time frames and annual inspection requirements.
• Enter, archive, and review inspection records for completeness and accuracy in CARES and the Environmental Health Database.
• Investigate complaints involving licensed childcare providers and suspected illegal childcare operations; document findings and prepare reports.
• Initiate and manage corrective or administrative enforcement actions, provide timely notifications, maintain accurate records, and close actions promptly.
• Process initial and renewal licensing applications, including reviewing background screening clearances, training documentation, and other statutory requirements.
• Determine whether licensing requirements have been met and make licensure recommendations to the supervisor or regional program manager.
• Provide technical assistance to childcare providers, communicate corrective action requirements, and monitor progress toward resolving deficiencies.
• Maintain proficient knowledge of applicable laws, rules, regulations, policies, procedures, and community resources.
• Maintain proficiency with program hardware, software, system applications, databases, and web-based resources.
• Respond professionally and promptly to inquiries from providers, parents, the public, and other agencies, and consult with stakeholders regarding childcare regulation.
• Respond to special assignments and perform other related duties as assigned by the Environmental Health Director or designee.

Benefits

• Annual and sick leave benefits.
• Nine paid holidays and one personal holiday each year.
• State Group Insurance coverage options, including health, life, dental, vision, and supplemental insurance.
• Retirement plan options, including employer contributions.
• Flexible Spending Accounts.
• Tuition waivers.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed