Compliance Specialist

Position Purpose The Compliance Specialist’s primary responsibility is to assist with the development and implementation of ongoing monitoring systems that support regulatory compliance. The Compliance Specialist will collaborate with the Quality Assurance Director and Content Managers to design policies, procedures, and Service‑Learning Plans that meet or exceed standards, regulations, and laws required by the National Association for the Education of Young Children, Head Start Program Performance Standards, Head Start Act, Texas Rising Star, and the Texas Minimum Licensing Standards. The Compliance Specialist will assist with the design and recommendations for tools to monitor programmatic operations, facilitate monitoring events, monitor the implementation of ongoing monitoring plans, and use data to inform monitoring reports and corrective action plans. Additionally, this role works with an interdisciplinary team to plan and implement the annual Self‑Assessment, providing data, helping to lead teams, and assisting with writing the final report. The Compliance Specialist partners with the Quality Assurance Director to work collaboratively with program leadership, directors, site managers, staff, and other agencies to foster a culture of accountability and excellence. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Supports the development and implementation of an ongoing monitoring plan. Monitors programs at least monthly for program compliance. Conducts quarterly site visits and reviews quarterly monitoring results to assist the Quality Assurance Director with writing a Quarterly Compliance Report. Monitors contracted facilities, including childcare centers (CCP), to ensure contract compliance. Assists with monitoring implementation of the five‑year grant goals and supports the development of a quarterly report to program leaders and governance. Monitors progress toward accomplishing Self‑Assessment Goals; in the absence of the Quality Assurance Director, provides a quarterly report on program staff and governance. Assists with internal investigations and prepares for external regulatory audits. Assists with the development and implementation of the annual Self‑Assessment Process. Collaborates with the Quality Assurance Director to plan and implement mock licensing inspections, federal monitoring reviews, etc. Participates in interdisciplinary teams to plan for federal reviews. Record Keeping and Reporting Prepares and distributes timely reports, updates, and findings to supervisors and management. Maintains complete and accurate compliance documentation in program databases and systems. Assists with maintaining compliance records for licensing, TRS, NAEYC, and OHS monitoring visits. Collaborates with program staff to develop and implement Corrective Action Plans and monitors that corrective actions are implemented. Supports the annual Program Information Report (PIR) process. Informs program management of non‑compliance issues and develops strategic plans to address areas of non‑compliance. Assists with gathering requested information and submitting it to licensing. Ensures monitoring data is accurate in Child Plus. Monitors Teaching Strategies Gold, CLI, Ready Rosie, and Hatch utilization. General Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Technically competent with various software programs, such as Word, Excel, Power Point, etc. Experienced at working both independently and in a team‑oriented, collaborative environment. Ability to analyze data, identify trends, and use findings to inform program improvements while keeping personnel apprised of status. Proficiency in database management and computer applications (Microsoft Office, Google), and using technology to track and report data including Child Plus, Teaching Strategies, CLI, CLASS, etc. Ability to build and maintain collaborative working relationships with a diverse staff. Responsive to project adjustments and alterations promptly and efficiently, ensuring that project goals are achieved. Strong organizational and time‑management skills to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and maintain accurate records. Excellent oral and written communication skills to explain complex regulations and policies to diverse stakeholders. Ability to work independently with minimal direction, demonstrate leadership, and work effectively with diverse populations and agencies. Ability to respond effectively to the most sensitive inquiries and/or complaints maintaining complete confidentiality of client, family, and agency information where required. Strong attention to detail and accuracy. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in early childhood development, education, human development, family development, social services, or a related field. Master’s degree preferred. Experience in Head Start, training in H.S. Performance Standards, experience with OHS On‑Site Review Teams. Knowledge of community social services agencies; federal, state and local regulations as they apply to grant‑funded program mandates. Knowledge of the principles and practices of organization, management, supervision and training. Ability to relate effectively with governing bodies, parents, community and agency representatives. Ability to coordinate functions and activities between the Head Start Program or Early Head Start Program and outside agencies. Must have the ability to maintain a professional demeanor under stressful and frustrating circumstances. Must have a positive attitude toward the children and families served. Must possess a valid driver’s license. Excellent interpersonal skills and experience working with diverse populations both in the community and within administrative staff. Must pass all criminal history background checks. #J-18808-Ljbffr Child Start Inc.