Children’s Specialist - Part-Time (3rd Shift)

Children's Specialist - 3rd Shift (Overnight)

Children's Specialists provide a safe, trauma-informed overnight environment for children ages birth through six. On the overnight shift, specialists focus on meeting children's physical and emotional needs, supporting sleep routines, and maintaining a calm, nurturing atmosphere. Responsibilities include all aspects of direct care, teamwork on housekeeping tasks, and duties as assigned. Part-Time Schedule: Sunday & Monday (10:45pm - 7am). On-Call Requirement: One 4-hour on call shift is required per week. On-call requires that you are able to arrive within 30 minutes to help cover the shift and care for children. Pay is time and a half your hourly rate if called in to work.

Essential Duties

• Provide attentive, high-quality care, including feeding, diapering/toileting, hygiene, and sleep support.
• Prepare and serve light meals and snacks according to dietary guidelines.
• Support good hygiene practices such as handwashing and dental care before and after sleep.
• Monitor health throughout the night and administer basic first aid or medications as directed.
• Facilitate quiet, age-appropriate activities and calming routines to promote restful sleep.
• Use positive behavior management and de-escalation strategies for challenging behaviors.
• Provide trauma-informed care and support philosophy of care at all times.
• Offer a comforting, nurturing presence during nighttime care and transitions.
• Conduct intakes and discharges with the Crisis Support Specialist, ensuring complete documentation.

Safety & Compliance

• Maintain the safety and confidentiality of all children throughout the overnight shift.
• Report any knowledge or reasonable suspicion of child abuse or maltreatment according to policy and state regulations.
• Complete all required documentation within specified timeframes.
• Review daily shift reports and apply effective overnight care practices.
• Follow licensing requirements, DCFS regulations, and Crisis Nursery policies.
• Support a safe environment through cleaning, sorting, inventorying, and organizing tasks.

Training & Staff Development

• Attend pre-shift check-ins, monthly team meetings, bi-monthly all-staff meetings, and scheduled trainings.
• Complete and maintain all required certifications and training according to licensing and state regulations.
• Engage in ongoing professional development, including training on overnight care and trauma-informed practices.

Required Qualifications & Experience

• 21 years of age or older.
• 2 years of college credit in Child Development, Social Work, Early Childhood Education, or relevant field OR 2+ years of childcare or direct care experience preferred.
• CPR/First Aid certification or willingness to obtain.
• Successful background check and completion of Mandated Reporter training.

Knowledge & Skills

• Passion for the organization's mission and goals.
• Strong understanding of child development and overnight care needs.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and stay calm in emergency or nighttime situations.
• Patience, creativity, and a nurturing demeanor.

Physical Considerations

• Requires lifting and carrying children and equipment; standing, bending, and sitting on the floor.
• Ability to monitor and support children through overnight sleep cycles.