Early Childhood Development Specialist - Fort Smith, AR

Early Childhood Development Specialist (ECDS)We're looking for an Early Childhood Development Specialist (ECDS) to join our Kids First team in Fort Smith, AR. Kids First is dynamic and growing organization that is committed to providing the best possible care and developmental intervention for young children. Our ideal candidate is someone who is passionate about working with children and families, is knowledgeable about early childhood development, and is committed to providing high-quality, individualized care to young children with special healthcare needs.Closing Date: 11/10/2026Type of Position: Other Health Care - Clinical SupportJob Type: RegularInstitution Name: University of Arkansas for Medical SciencesThe University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) has a unique combination of education, research, and clinical programs that encourages and supports teamwork and diversity. We champion being a collaborative health care organization, focused on improving patient care and the lives of Arkansans.UAMS offers amazing benefits and perks (available for benefits eligible positions only):Health: Medical, Dental and Vision plans available for qualifying staff and familyHoliday, Vacation and Sick LeaveEducation discount for staff and dependents (undergraduate only)Retirement: Up to 10% matched contribution from UAMSBasic Life Insurance up to $50,000Career Training and Educational OpportunitiesMerchant DiscountsConcierge prescription delivery on the main campus when using UAMS pharmacyDepartment: COM | Peds Kids First Fort SmithSummary of Job Duties: This position is in Fort Smith, ARQualifications: Bachelor's degree with at least one of the following: 1) Early Childhood or Early Childhood Special Education Certificate, 2) A Child Development Associate Certificate, 3) Birth to Pre-K Credential WITH documentation of 12 hours of coursework in Early Childhood, Child Development, Special Education, Elementary Education, or Child and Family Studies has been completed plus six (6) months documented experience working with children.Knowledge, Skills & AbilitiesExcellent communication, organization, and interpersonal skills.Ability to work independently and as a team.Ability to administer standardized developmental testing instruments.Ability to build relationships with children, parents, and colleagues.Knowledge of developmental milestones in the birth-to-five population.Responsibilities:Ensures the quality of individualized developmental services provided at KIDS FIRST.Supports the academic mission of the Kids First program.Demonstrates professionalism, continued development of skills, and job-related interest and concern.Perform other duties assigned.Salary Information: Commensurate with education and experienceRequired Documents to Apply: ResumeOptional Documents: Proof of Veteran StatusSpecial Instructions to Applicants: Recruitment Contact Information: Please contact View email address on click.appcast.io for any recruiting related questions. All application materials must be uploaded to the University of Arkansas System Career Site Please do not send to listed recruitment contact.Pre-employment Screening Requirements: Adult Maltreatment, Child Maltreatment, Criminal Background Check, FBI Background Check. This position is subject to pre-employment screening (criminal background, drug testing, and/or education verification). A criminal conviction or arrest pending adjudication alone shall not disqualify an applicant except as provided by law. Any criminal history will be evaluated in relationship to job responsibilities and business necessity. The information obtained in these reports will be used in a confidential, non-discriminatory manner consistent with state and federal law.Constant Physical Activity: HearingFrequent Physical Activity: Crawling, Crouching, Feeling, Kneeling, Reaching, Standing, Stooping, Talking, WalkingOccasional Physical Activity: SittingBenefits Eligible: Yes