Parent Engagement, Nutrition, and Wellness Specialist (Limited Term Part Time)

The Parent Engagement, Nutrition, and Wellness Specialist will strengthen family engagement across all EOUHS centers by coordinating high-quality, inclusive family events that promote health, nutrition, wellness, school readiness, and community connection. This position supports whole-child and whole-family outcomes by: Coordinating center-based family engagement events Promoting health, nutrition, and outdoor learning opportunities Supporting equitable access to safe, developmentally appropriate environments Strengthening partnerships between families, staff, and community resources This position aligns with EOUHS's commitment to child well-being, school readiness, family leadership, and community collaboration, including initiatives that promote outdoor learning and health equity. The specialist works under the supervision of the Family and Community Partnership Manager and collaborates closely with Family Service Specialists, Education staff, Health/Nutrition staff, and community partners.

POSITION INFORMATION

Part-Time (approximately 19 hours per week; flexible based on event schedule) Limited Term Position (Grant-funded; duration dependent on funding availability) Non-Exempt Reports to: Family and Community Partnership Manager Requires travel between all EOUHS centers Some evening and occasional weekend hours are required to accommodate family schedules. Responsibilities 1. Family Engagement & Event Coordination Develop and coordinate engaging family events at all EOUHS centers (e.g., family nights, wellness events, nutrition workshops, garden-based activities, outdoor learning events). Ensure events are culturally responsive, inclusive, and aligned with Head Start Parent, Family, and Community Engagement (PFCE) Framework. Create an annual family engagement event calendar in collaboration with site staff and leadership. Coordinate logistics including space, materials, food components (when applicable), volunteers, and community presenters. Promote family leadership opportunities within events (parent presenters, volunteers, advisory roles). Track attendance and gather feedback to evaluate effectiveness and inform continuous improvement. Provide content for newsletters, flyers, and social media related to events. 2. Nutrition & Wellness Promotion Coordinate family-focused nutrition education opportunities aligned with Head Start Performance Standards. Support family access to information about: Healthy eating on a budget Gardening and local food systems Physical activity and outdoor play Preventative health practices Collaborate with Health/Nutrition staff to reinforce program health requirements and wellness goals. Integrate outdoor learning and playground/garden use into family events, supporting physical development and school readiness outcomes. Promote equitable access to safe outdoor environments and community recreation resources. 3. Cross-Center Collaboration Maintain consistent presence at all EOUHS centers to ensure equitable service delivery. Partner with Family Service Specialists to align events with identified family partnership goals Attend Family and Community Partnership meetings and relevant planning sessions. Support center staff in increasing parent participation and engagement. Build and maintain relationships with community agencies, food banks, health providers, OSU Extension, and local partners. 4. Documentation & Communication Track event participation, community partnerships, and measurable outcomes. Document family engagement activities in accordance with program procedures. Maintain ongoing communication with the Family and Community Partnership Manager. Assist with grant reporting requirements related to family engagement, wellness, and community collaboration. Support program planning, assessment, and development efforts. Minimum Qualifications Education (One of the following preferred): Associate's or Bachelor's Degree in: Family Studies Public Health Nutrition Early Childhood Education Human Services Community Health Or related field Relevant experience may substitute for formal education. Experience & Skills Experience coordinating events, workshops, or community engagement activities. Knowledge of family engagement principles and/or Head Start Performance Standards preferred. Knowledge of nutrition education, wellness promotion, gardening, or outdoor learning preferred. Strong organizational and project management skills. Ability to work independently across multiple sites. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Experience working with diverse populations using a trauma-informed approach. Bilingual applicants encouraged to apply. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and basic digital communication tools.

PHYSICAL / MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

Ability to lift and carry up to 40 pounds (event materials, supplies). Ability to work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions. Travel between program sites required. Flexible schedule including occasional evenings and weekends. Preferred Qualifications Special Instructions to Applicants Prior to beginning work, the successful candidate must: Enrollment in the Oregon Child Care Division Central Background Registry https://secure.emp.state.or.us/ccd/ Communicable Disease Verification from a qualified Healthcare Provider Provide work authorization documentation necessary to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States as required by the Federal Government. Eastern Oregon University Head Start does not sponsor applicants for employment visas. Must have a valid Oregon Driver's license and be able to pass a driving records check. Within 30 days of hire: Pediatric CPR/First Aid certification Oregon Food Handler's Card Salary $17.17-$21.02 per hour