Senior Child Development Specialist (Master Teacher)

Senior Child Development Specialist (Master Teacher) West Valley-Mission Community College District is seeking a talented individual to fill the position of Senior Child Development Specialist (Master Teacher) at our Child Development Center Lab School located at West Valley College campus. Under the direction of the Program Director, the Senior Child Development Specialist/Master Teacher will create, plan and implement developmentally appropriate curriculum in a play‑based learning environment for ages 2–5 years; establish and maintain working partnerships with parents, families, and students to perform duties requiring in‑depth knowledge of early childhood education and development; provide mentoring and oversight of student workers and practicum students; complete administrative duties necessary to implement a quality preschool program. Assignment 100% full time, 37.5 hours per week, 12 months per year, anticipated start date September 2026. Schedule may change to include some evening or weekend hours as needed. Salary and Benefits Anticipated Hiring Range: $6,502.58 – $7,070.08 monthly (WVMCEA Salary Schedule, Range 53, Steps A‑C). Employer‑contributed medical, dental and vision for employee, spouse, and/or dependents. Employer‑paid long‑term disability for employee. Employer‑provided life insurance. 14 paid holidays, plus 1 floating holiday annually; paid non‑workdays between Christmas and New Year. 12 days vacation leave accrued annually; rate increases step‑wise up to maximum 22 days vacation leave accrued annually. 12 days sick leave accrued annually. Personal necessity leave and personal business leave. Educational growth incentive program from $45 to $225 monthly. $1,000 longevity award annually after 10 years of service and $1,500 longevity award annually after 15 years of service. CalPERS retirement. Position is union affiliated. Minimum Qualifications Education and Experience Two years of responsible journey experience similar to Child Development Specialist with the West Valley-Mission Community College District. Equivalently a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in early childhood education or related field. License and Certificate Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate, valid California Child Development Master Teacher Permit. Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid First Aid and CPR certificate issued by the American Red Cross, Heart Association, or other authorized agency. Understanding of, and sensitivity to the diverse academic, socio‑economic, ethnic, religious and cultural backgrounds, disability, and sexual orientation of community college students, faculty and staff. Desired Qualifications Possession of, or ability to obtain, a Site Supervisor Permit. Five years experience in a program supporting a play‑based philosophy. Understanding and commitment to the Outdoor Classroom model. Strong skills in child observation and developmental assessment. Working knowledge of Title 22 and Title 5. Flexibility, dependability, and punctuality. Knowledge and Abilities Knowledge of Principles and practices of technical and functional oversight, training and mentoring. Principles, techniques, and methods used in early childhood education. Theories and practices of behavioral therapy, child development, and parent, family and caregiver child relationships. First aid, CPR, health and safety and other regulations applicable to childcare facilities. Curriculum planning and developmentally appropriate components for young children. Ability to Provide mentoring and technical and functional oversight over assigned staff and effectively train staff. Perform the most complex duties related to curriculum development and mentoring of practicum students. Continuously understand all aspects of the job; analyze reports and special projects; identify technical and numerical information; observe and problem solve operational and technical policy and procedures. Work while sitting at desk for long periods, standing, walking, bending, squatting, climbing, kneeling, twisting; handle children’s activities; lift or carry weights of 70 pounds or less. Supervise children in a wide variety of indoor and outdoor activities. Plan and participate in instructional programs for children. Perform assessments and provide input regarding the development of program participants and practicum students. Use sound judgment in recognizing scope of authority. Operate and use modern office equipment including computers and applicable software. Maintain regular attendance and adhere to prescribed work schedule. Utilize appropriate safety procedures and practices for assigned duties. Communicate effectively orally and in writing. Relate effectively with people of varied academic, cultural, and socio‑economic backgrounds using tact, diplomacy, and courtesy. Establish and maintain effective, cooperative, and collaborative working relationships with others. Examples of Duties and Responsibilities Develop developmentally appropriate curriculum and implement play and varied learning experiences for children in a multi‑age pre‑school classroom environment; mentor and model to, review and assess the work of practicum students. Develop schedules and methods to accomplish assignments ensuring work is completed in a timely and efficient manner. Interact with children assisting them with developing problem solving and other skills, creating opportunities for safe risks and the family or parent or caregiver separation process; contribute to the child’s social and emotional development; create a climate of respect for each child. Mentor, oversee, and participate in evaluating the activities of staff, teaching assistants and practicum students, recommending improvements and modifications. Provide and coordinate staff training; work with employees to correct deficiencies. Attend meetings; maintain a variety of accurate records. Perform the most difficult work related to curriculum development, and observation and assessment of children and of student teachers. Conduct assessments and maintain developmental profiles of each child; communicate regularly with parents and families regarding children’s development and program experiences. Maintain a safe, orderly classroom including adjacent indoor and outdoor areas; report any safety hazards or injuries in the center; follow health and safety standards and other regulations and requirements for food handling, toileting of young children, hand washing, and universal precautions with exposure to blood. Build and maintain positive working relationships with co‑workers, other district employees, and the public using principles of good customer service. Foster an environment that embraces diversity, integrity, trust, and respect. Be an integral team player, which involves flexibility, cooperation, and communication. Perform related duties as assigned.

EEO STATEMENT

West Valley-Mission Community College District is an Equal Opportunity Employer that seeks to employ a diverse workforce who will contribute to an inclusive and welcoming educational and employment environment. The District is committed to nondiscrimination on the basis of ethnic group identification, race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex, physical disability, mental disability, genetic information, ancestry, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, language, accent, citizenship status, transgender status, parental status, marital status, economic status, military or veteran status, and medical condition consistent with applicable federal and state laws. #J-18808-Ljbffr West Valley-Mission Community College District