Program Assistant

Position Summary This position’s duties vary upon the needs of the center but could involve any and all of the following: providing a safe and nurturing environment for a designated child (or children) with special needs, providing extra support in a classroom under the guidance of the Teacher, providing assistance in the kitchen, custodial or office work, or riding a HeadStart bus while adhering to all safety rules and policies and procedures. Job Duties Encourages and assists children in all personal and hygiene activities. If assigned to a specific child assists with any special medical and or feeding issues as well. Maintains the responsibility for ensuring the safety of child assigned to him/her in the event of a safety evacuation and/or drill. Works cooperatively with the Teacher and other staff using the team approach to classroom management. Maintains a modified appropriate daily schedule for child assigned to him/her but is flexible based upon needs of the child or children. Incorporates goals written in the IEP or IFPS into the daily routine. Attends therapy session(s) with assigned child as appropriate to learn different techniques to assist the child with meeting their individual goals. Participates in IEP/IFSP meetings when appropriate. Rides HeadStart bus as assigned and follows all safety rules and policies and procedures. Observes each child daily to assess skills, interests, and needs and uses this information to facilitate learning and growth. Assures that all children are supervised at all times. Participates in family style meals and snacks at table with children. Responsible for developing a partnership with parents and caregivers in the HeadStart program and encourages each parent/caregiver to take an active role in their child’s HeadStart experience. Provides assistance in the kitchen as needed with items such as dishes and preparing and serving meals. Provides assistance in cleaning the center as needed with items such as vacuuming, sweeping, mopping, and cleaning bathrooms. Provides assistance in the office as needed with items such as copying newsletters, filing, and answering the phone and taking messages. Participates in staff meetings, center activities, and staff development. Maintains child, family, and employee confidentiality. Participates in the federal and annual program review. Responsible for recruitment of HeadStart eligible children, in coordination with other HeadStart staff, for enrollment into the HeadStart program. Responsible for carrying out best practices for safety procedures concerning children, staff, families, and community individuals and for assessing current practices and finding ways and areas needing improvement. Responsible for participating in activities and attitudes that promote positive public relations and positive image for the program and agency. Complies and is familiar with the requirements of the policies and procedures adopted by Southern Seven Health Department as required by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Reports potential problems and concerns to Site Supervisor. Qualifications Education, Training and Experience: Must be at least eighteen years of age. Possess a High school diploma or GED equivalent. Prefer some experience working with children. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Knowledge and use of modern office practices and procedures including basic computer skills. Knowledge and capable of dealing with persons of diverse socio-economic, educational, and cultural backgrounds. Knowledge and use of appropriate telephone etiquette. Ability to carry out detailed but basic oral and written instructions. Communicate effectively in written and verbal forms. Perform basic arithmetic calculations. Self‑motivated, acts independently, and initiates programmatic ideas. Certifications and Other Requirements: Required: DCFS Criminal background check; DCFS physical assessment; Mandated Reporter; DCFS licensing required courses; CPR/First Aid certification. Recommended: HepatitisB Vaccine and HeadStart Teacher Aide Qualified. Physical Requirements Strength: Lift/carry up to 40 pounds on occasion and 20 pounds frequently. Movement: Sit, walk, or stand for prolonged periods of time; lift horizontally and vertically, bend and stoop, push/pull, twist, carry, crouch, squat, kneel, reach above shoulder level; hear and understand speech at normal room levels and on the telephone. Salary Range $15.30 to $16.80 hourly EEO Statement Southern Seven Health Department is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Veteran/Disabled. #J-18808-Ljbffr