Early Childhood Navigator (50%) The Matthews House Fort Collins, CO Job Details Part-time $22 - $23 an hour 22 hours ago Benefits 401(k) 3% Match 401(k) Employee assistance program 401(k) matching Employee discount Professional development assistance Flexible schedule Paid sick time Qualifications School experience Sociology Criminal Justice Social Work Associate's degree Full Job Description This posting will close on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at 5pm MST. Early Childhood Navigator (50%)

Status:

Part-time, 20 hours per week (0.5 FTE);

Non-Exempt Location:

The Matthews House, Fort Collins, CO; hybrid option up to 20% of total work hours

Pay Range:

$22-$23/hour

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Early Childhood Navigator is a hands-on, part-time position supporting young children and their families by helping them access early learning, developmental, and family support services that promote healthy development and school readiness. The Navigator guides families through complex early childhood systems, connects them to high-quality childcare, preschool, and developmental resources, and coordinates services with community partners. Through relationship-based, culturally responsive support and consistent follow-up, the Navigator helps reduce barriers to access, strengthen family stability, and improve outcomes for children from birth through the early elementary years.

QUALIFICATIONS

An associate degree in Criminal Justice or Social Work is required; a bachelor's degree in Psychology, Social Work, Child Development, Criminal Justice, Sociology, or Counseling is preferred. 1+ year of experience in early childhood education, family services, case management, or a related human services role is required. 2+ years of experience working within early childhood systems, school districts, or developmental services is preferred. Certification such as CPR, First Aid, and Safe Sleep is required. Intermediate knowledge of early learning, childcare assistance programs, Head Start/Early Head Start, preschool systems, and early intervention services. Strong ability to guide families through complex eligibility and enrollment processes and advocate for timely access to services. Ability to support developmental screening tools and coordinate referrals to specialized services. Strong verbal and written communication skills and commitment to culturally responsive, inclusive practices that honor family strengths, values, and lived experiences. Reliable transportation is required; up to 50% travel may be expected.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

Family Navigation & Intake Support - 30% Conduct intakes, screenings, and needs assessments with families. Support enrollment in early childhood programs, including childcare assistance, Head Start/Early Head Start, preschool, and developmental services. Provide guidance on eligibility, applications, and documentation. Care Coordination & Community Partnerships - 30% Coordinate with early childhood providers, school districts, healthcare, developmental specialists, and community agencies. Make warm handoffs and participate in multidisciplinary meetings to ensure continuity of care. Support outreach to referral partners and the community to promote early childhood services. Assist with program development, resource materials, and special projects as assigned. Developmental Screening & Referral Support - 15% Support age-appropriate developmental screenings (e.g., ASQ) and connect families to early intervention, speech, behavioral health, and specialized services as needed. Follow up to ensure referrals result in timely access to care. Family Engagement & Education - 15% Build trusting relationships with families and provide education on child development, school readiness, positive parenting, and available community resources. Facilitate workshops, family events, and group-based learning opportunities. Documentation, Data & Compliance - 10% Maintain accurate and timely records in Community Care Link (CCL) and other required systems. Track outcomes, service utilization, and compliance with grant, licensing, and reporting requirements. Assist with other duties as assigned.

SCHEDULE

Part-time, 20 hours per week (0.5 FTE), generally between Monday through Friday; specific hours may vary based on family and program needs. Some evenings and weekends may be required to meet the needs of families and the position. This role is based at The Matthews House in Fort Collins and includes community-based work and travel to partner locations.

BENEFITS

401(k) with 3% match by employer Paid sick leave A mission-driven environment with strong staff culture

The Matthews House Mission:

Empowering youth and families through connection, self-efficacy, and independence.

The Matthews House Vision:

A community that is aware, belongs, and is self-sufficient.

The Matthews House Values:

Relationship-Centered, Assume the Best of People, Own Your Role, Innovation, Remain Curious

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYMENT & AFFIRMATIVE ACTION

The Matthews House is dedicated to the principles of equal employment opportunity in any term, condition, or privilege of employment. We do not discriminate against applicants or employees on the basis of age, race, sex, color, religion, national origin, disability, or any other status protected by state or local law.

Job Type:

Part-time Pay:

$22.00 - $23.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Employee assistance program Employee discount Flexible schedule Professional development assistance Application Question(s): Why do you want to work in this role at The Matthews House?

Work Location:

In person