Child Development and Prevention Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Position Title: Child Development and Prevention Specialist

Status: Non-Exempt

Schedule: Mon-Fri

Position Summary

The Child Development and Prevention Specialist is responsible for coordinating and delivering services for children receiving support within the prevention center. This role provides case management, therapeutic activities, and structured programming while maintaining a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate environment for children whose mothers are participating in treatment services.

Key Responsibilities

Clinical and Program Duties

• Facilitate weekly Parent Prevention and ACT Parenting groups
• Facilitate children’s group therapy and individual sessions
• Provide crisis intervention for children or parents as needed on site
• Identify and report suspected abuse or neglect in accordance with policy and regulations
• Participate in milieu therapy activities within the treatment environment
• Conduct family education groups on assigned weekends

Child Care and Environment Responsibilities

• Maintain a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment for all children during prevention center hours
• Maintain a consistent daily schedule and structured routine within the prevention center
• Ensure cleanliness and sanitation standards are consistently maintained
• Provide classroom support as needed
• Support coordination and transportation of children for social and experiential outings

Documentation Responsibilities

• Complete accurate and timely documentation of all services provided in accordance with licensing and accreditation standards

Additional Responsibilities

• Participate in clinical meetings, prevention team meetings, and weekly supervision sessions
• Attend monthly staff meetings
• Implement and follow The Ness Center guidelines and policies
• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in child development or a related field preferred

• 2 to 3 years of experience in child care, early childhood education, behavioral health, or youth programming
• Extensive child care experience may substitute for degree requirement
• Knowledge of mental health and substance use disorders
• Ability to engage children and families in the recovery process
• Valid driver’s license and current vehicle insurance required

The Ness Center is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for all employment; free from discrimination based on race, creed, color, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, religion, associational preferences, status as a qualified individual with a disability, or status as a protected veteran.