Early Childhood Program Specialist 3

Position Summary As a lead teacher, you will interact with parents, volunteers, and team members to guide the educational activities of children 1 month to 5 years enrolled in the College’s early childhood program and provide instructional support. You will respond to each child with respect, courtesy, and an understanding of their developmental stage, and work in accordance with Department of Early Learning requirements and internal policies. Salary range: $4,320 – $5,812. Essential Functions Guide individual and groups of children ages 1 month to 5 years in developmentally appropriate practices using best practices to foster creativity, fine and gross motor skills, cognitive, social, emotional, language development, and independence. Implement guidance techniques that respect each child’s individuality and respond with respect, courtesy, and developmental appropriateness. Use Teaching Strategies GOLD and related databases; maintain child educational files and related documentation. Assess each child’s developmental progress using a valid, reliable, and recognized assessment tool. Complete scoring rubrics such as ECERS or ITERS and conduct ongoing assessment of classroom and program strengths and needs. Develop and implement learning experiences for children based on observations of their interests and developmental needs. Provide on‑the‑job training and mentoring to staff at earlier development stages, including student staff, temporary employees, and volunteers. Use computer literacy to find teaching resources, manage attendance, design curriculum, prepare newsletters, and communicate via email. Communicate with the Program Manager regarding information that affects program efficiency and staff performance. Communicate routinely with parents regarding child development. Function as a member of a team‑oriented staff; may lead, instruct, assign, and review work of others; participate in staff meetings and in‑service training. Make use of opportunities to expand knowledge and expertise through professional development related to the Early Childhood Program Specialist position. Complete twenty hours of basic STARS training within six months of hire and maintain a minimum of ten hours annually thereafter. Courteously receive visitors and parents, articulating program philosophies and best practices. Understand and implement minimum licensing requirements as determined by the Department of Early Learning. Have knowledge of Early Achievers, Early Head Start, and the Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP). Be versatile in using multiple technological media such as tablets and smartphones for remote functions (portfolio, evaluations, correspondence, scheduling). Qualifications Minimum Qualifications Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education from an accredited college. OR an Associate’s degree with twenty (20) credit hours in early childhood development, special education, or equivalent. OR a current Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. Two years of experience working with preschool‑age children in a group setting, providing program planning, developing and presenting educational activities/lesson plans, or equivalent combination of education and experience. Proficient experience using computer programs such as Outlook, Word, and Excel. Note: Credit hours will be verified through MERIT; additional classes may be required to qualify. Preferred Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from an accredited college or university. Three years of experience working with preschool‑age children. Experience working under the guidelines of an accredited early learning program. Experience as an Early Head Start Lead Teacher. Experience with Teaching Strategies GOLD and Creative Curriculum programs. Conditions of Employment Subject to a criminal background check prior to employment; results will be reviewed on a case‑by‑case basis. Tacoma Community College does not sponsor H‑1B visas; proof of authorization required at hire. Must successfully pass a portable background check (PBC) prior to employment through MERIT. Education/Training Certification in infant and toddler care and development; may be obtained within one year of employment. Valid First Aid and CPR certification; may be obtained within 30 days of hire. Valid Food Handlers Permit; may be obtained within 30 days of hire. HIV training certificate; may be obtained within 30 days of hire. Current Tuberculin (TB) test record. Ability to lift and carry 20–45 pounds (live weight). Obtain State Training & Registry System (STAR) number for MERIT; may be obtained upon hiring. MMR vaccination verification required upon employment. Successful Candidate Must Demonstrate A passion for educating, caring, and nurturing children. Ability to remain calm and show patience and understanding with children. Confidentiality, ethics, integrity, and sound professional judgment. Excellent customer service skills, including establishing, building, and maintaining internal/external customer satisfaction. Excellent oral and written communication skills, including following instructions. Knowledge of healthy diet programs for children and adults. Value of safety procedures, awareness, and overall risk assessments. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to interact with a wide variety of personalities in a diverse work environment. An appreciation of diversity and the benefits of a commitment to cultural awareness and sensitivity in the workplace. Ability to interact courteously with customers and work effectively in a team environment. Application Process Complete Application Packages must include the following: Tacoma Community College application Resume and cover letter. In the cover letter indicate how your background and experience meet the qualifications for this position, specifically addressing your experience, training, and knowledge in providing empathy and respect in the care and nurturing of children 1 month to 5 years of age in an early childhood program and your supervisory experience. Copies of transcripts for all colleges and universities attended (official transcripts required for the successful candidate). Equal Opportunity Employer Statement Tacoma Community College provides equal opportunity in education and employment and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, creed, religion, or status as a veteran of war. Prohibited sex discrimination includes sexual harassment. Provides reasonable accommodations for qualified applicants with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Federal Rehabilitation Act. #J-18808-Ljbffr