Early Childhood Education Support Specialist Richland County First Steps - 3.5 Columbia, SC Job Details Full-time $15.65 an hour 1 day ago Benefits Health savings account Health insurance Dental insurance 401(k) Tuition reimbursement Paid time off Employee assistance program Vision insurance 401(k) matching Life insurance Referral program Qualifications Early childhood education center experience Parent-teacher conferences (communication methods) Full Job Description About This Role Job description:

Early Childhood Education Support Specialist Schedule:

Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM (occasional nights and weekends)

Status:

Full-time, Non-Exempt Benefits Eligibility:

Employer-paid health, vision, dental insurance, retirement, life insurance and

EAP About Us:

Richland County First Steps is a mid-size nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering the development and education of young children. We are committed to creating a positive and collaborative environment that promotes growth and values hard work. Why Join Us? Employer-paid health, vision, and dental insurance Generous PTO Professional development opportunities Supportive and inclusive work environment A meaningful opportunity to make a lasting impact in your community About the

Role:

We are looking for a dedicated Support Specialist to join our Early Head Start program. This role focuses on providing high-quality care and education for young children aged 8 weeks to 3 years, supporting their social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development in a nurturing and engaging environment. What You'll Do Key Responsibilities Treat Head Start participants, community members, and fellow staff with positive regard in accordance with Head Start's mission statement. Maintain clean, safe, and developmentally appropriate classroom and outdoor environments for young children. Provide care for infants and toddlers, including feeding, diapering, dressing, and engaging in age-appropriate play activities. Responsibilities may include lifting and carrying children throughout the day. Completion of daily floater checklist tasks and responsibilities. Maintain confidentiality in all aspects of program operations and staff interactions. Complete assigned classroom duties effectively, accurately, and within required timeframes. Assist with classroom instruction, daily activities, and child supervision as needed. Support weekly lesson plans in collaboration with infant and toddler teachers. Encourage and promote parental involvement in children's learning experiences and programming activities. Assist with parent conferences and home visits as needed. Support the assessment of children's physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development. Adhere to DSS, DHEC, and CACFP regulations and requirements. Complete all required paperwork, reports, and documentation accurately and on time. Rotate kitchen duties between Early Childhood Support Specialists Perform other related duties as assigned.

Requirements Qualifications Education:

Minimum of a Child Development Associate (CDA) or State-awarded certificate with a focus on infant and toddler development is required. Associate or bachelor's degree in child development, Early Childhood Education, or a related field preferred.

Experience:

Proven experience in a licensed childcare facility with children ages 0-3. Familiarity with Creative Curriculum for Infants, Toddlers, and Twos is advantageous.

Certifications:

Valid Adult/Pediatric

CPR/FA/AED

Training is preferred

Nice To Haves Additional Requirements:

Must be able to lift up to 40 lbs, kneel, bend, and sit on the floor Ability to manage family crises and maintain professional boundaries Familiarity with ProCare, ChildPlus, Teaching Strategies, ASQ Online, HELP, and HSELOF databases (preferred) Benefits Ready to Make a Difference? Apply today and be part of a team that helps shape the future of young children in our community!

Benefits:

Health Insurance Dental Insurance Vision Insurance Life Insurance Paid Leave Retirement Plan Tuition Assistance Professional Development 401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Employee assistance program Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Referral program Retirement plan Vision insurance