Primary Purpose:

To comply with all federal guidelines (Head Start Performance Standards, Transmittal Notices, etc.), Day Care Minimum Standards, and local Head Start policies in providing children and families with Head Start services. To provide children with a learning environment and varied developmentally appropriate experiences which will help them develop socially, intellectually, physically, and emotionally in a manner appropriate to their age and stage of development toward the overall goal of social competence.

Qualifications:

Education/Certification

• High School diploma or GED required
• Child Development Associate (CDA) preferred

Skills

• Experience working with young children preferred
• Loving, nurturing disposition toward young children required
• Bilingual (Spanish/English) preferred
• Valid Texas Driver's License or other reliable mode of transportation during work hours required

• Proof of current automobile liability insurance required
• Clear background history checks at the local, state, and federal levels required (Background checks are conducted by the ESC at no cost to the applicant.)
• Demonstrated ability to follow instructions and uphold high standards of care
• Moderate technology skills required
• Must be service driven with the ability to assume personal responsibility and maintain a positive outlook
• Must demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, possess the ability to work as a team player, enjoy a variety of activities, and possess organizational abilities

Working Conditions:

• Tools/Equipment Used: Standard classroom and nursery equipment such as toys, playgrounds, multiple-rider strollers, etc.; personal computer and printer
• Posture: Must be physically able to tolerate frequent standing, kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting
• Motion: Must be physically able to participate in moderate to high levels of physical activity, such as, but not limited to, standing for moderate to lengthy periods of time, frequent squatting and sitting on the floor, frequent walking, and overhead reaching, occasional driving
• Lifting: Must be physically able to tolerate regular light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds); may require occasional heavy lifting and carrying (45 pounds or more)
• Environment: Must be physically able to tolerate cleaning products and sanitizers, work inside and outside (exposure to sun, heat, cold, and inclement weather); exposure to noise; frequent exposure to bodily fluids; tolerate occasional travel between work sites
• Mental Demands: Must be able to work with frequent interruptions, maintain emotional control under stress and self-control in the presence of children
• Regular Attendance is an essential function

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

1. Engages in respectful partnerships with families to promote child/student success and family well-being
2. Assists children with diapering and toileting using approved procedures
3. Supervises and interacts with children during all indoor and outdoor activities
4. Uses calm, non-threatening voice
5. Demonstrates respect for each child and accepts differences in children
6. Corrects through conversation
7. Follows safety and environment regulations
8. Maintains confidentiality of child and family information
9. Models correct speech patterns and vocabulary for children
10. Interacts in a positive manner with parents and treats them with respect
11. Maintains a safe environment for children
12. Acts as primary caregiver
13. Substitutes in classes as needed for teachers or assistants
14. Follows the teacher's instructions regarding individual lesson plans
15. Provides emergency medical care for children as needed
16. Assists at meals and snacks and with clean-up of tables and floors
17. Monitors the appropriate approved persons to pick up the children
18. Cleans and sanitizes manipulatives, toys, floors, laundry, and other materials throughout the day
19. Complies with ESC and center policies
20. Cooperates with supervisor concerning working hours and center policies
21. Reports for work ready to perform responsibilities
22. Performs duties that directly and/or indirectly impact student performance in Region 16
23. Maintains a professional level of confidentiality regarding all ESC matters
24. Supports the mission, goals, and objectives of the ESC strategic plan
25. Upholds and adheres to safety rules and policies of the ESC safety program
26. Performs professional responsibilities as required by ESC policies, processes, and procedures
27. Manages time, calendar, and job responsibilities to meet deadlines
28. Meets proficiency levels of required technology skills as outlined by supervisor
29. Incorporates appropriate technology in daily work and exhibits continual growth in technologies as outlined by supervisor
30. Performs other duties as assigned