Support Services Specialist

Academic and Work Experience Requirements High School diploma or GED. Child Development Associate Credential (CDA) or a state‑awarded certificate that meets or exceeds CDA requirements, or enrollment in a CDA credential program to be completed within 18 months of hire. One year of related work experience. Responsibilities Critical Action Items & Measurable Deliverables Protect the physical and mental health and safety of children; no child is left unsupervised while under our care. Implement nutrition services that are culturally and developmentally appropriate and meet the nutritional needs of each child, including those with special dietary needs and disabilities. Maintain facilities, equipment, and materials in a clean and safe condition in accordance with federal policies and agency protocols. Implement hygiene practices that ensure appropriate toileting, hand washing, and diapering procedures; safe food preparation; and proper handling of blood and body fluids in accordance with OSHA standards. Follow appropriate practices to keep children safe during all activities, including reporting suspected or known child abuse and neglect, maintaining continuous supervision, and adhering to all standards of conduct. Support and participate in staff development, completing minimum training requirements as specified in state and federal standards, pursuing continuing professional development, and engaging in staff wellness initiatives. Respond to classroom requests for support in a timely manner, complying with Office of Head Start and agency regulations, policies, and protocols. Establish regular communication with teachers to ensure they are well‑informed about students’ behavior and progress. Monitor the classroom to ensure it is free from physical and environmental hazards. Report all incidents within the timeframes designated in program policy and protocol. Other Responsibilities Conduct daily cleaning of facilities, including classrooms, offices, bathrooms, common areas, and playgrounds. Maintain inventory control of cleaning supplies, including ordering and receiving supplies. Perform or arrange seasonal deep cleaning and maintenance of the building interior and exterior (e.g., floor waxing, carpet cleaning, pressure washing). Implement hyper‑sanitation protocols when directed. Ensure safety and health procedures are followed in accordance with federal and agency policies and protocols. Prepare and serve classroom meals and assist with family‑style meal activities as directed. Wash dishes, pots, pans, and utensils using approved sanitation methods. Conduct routine inspections and regular upkeep of interior and exterior areas to ensure safety and cleanliness. Conduct daily inspection and grounds keeping of outside areas, including lawns, landscaped beds, playgrounds, and parking areas, to keep centers clean and safe between regular contracted site services. Notify supervisor of any safety or health issues or concerns. Assist with moving and/or transporting office and classroom furniture, fixtures, supplies, and equipment as requested. Launder clothing and linens in support of classroom activities as requested. Assist with classroom supervision as needed. Assist with set up/tear down for classroom and center activities, training, meetings, recruitment fairs, and special events. Assist with repair and maintenance of buildings, storage facilities, machinery, and equipment. Perform other job duties as assigned. Requirements Demonstrate ability to respond sensitively and competently to the service population’s cultural and socioeconomic characteristics. Communicate in writing and verbally in English and Spanish (preferred). Maintain emotional control and professional composure at all times. Possess a working knowledge of all INK policies and procedures. Organize and prioritize duties and responsibilities in a fast‑paced environment. Possess a valid driver’s license. Complete and pass a health examination. Confirm work eligibility status. Pass a driving history check. Clear a criminal background check. Lift up to 60 pounds, stand, sit on the floor, bend, squat, kneel, lift children, and engage with children. Be exposed to communicable diseases, cigarette smoke, pets, and other hazards such as risk neighborhoods. Travel up to 50% by car, bus, airplane, or train, including potential overnight travel for conferences, meetings, or other duties at distant locations. Be available for some evenings and weekend work for events such as home visits, parent‑teacher conferences, parent committee meetings, community and social events, and field trips. Receive an annual Influenza vaccination or obtain an approved exemption in accordance with CDC immunization recommendations; proof must be provided to all new hires. Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or provide employment visas at this time. INK is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer. It has been and will continue to be a fundamental policy of INK to not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, pregnancy, sexual orientation, age, national origin, alienage or citizenship status, veteran or military status, disability, medical condition, or any characteristic prohibited by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including hiring, promotion, demotion, compensation, training, working conditions, transfer, job assignments, benefits, layoff, and termination. #J-18808-Ljbffr