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Job Description
The Early Head Start (EHS) Family Support Specialist position is responsible for coordinating comprehensive family support services in compliance with Head Start Performance Standards and program policies. This role manages a caseload of enrolled families, facilitating recruitment and enrollment, developing Family Partnership Agreements, and supporting parents in achieving self-identified goals. The position collaborates closely with EHS-CCP partners, educators, health providers, and community agencies to ensure children and families receive integrated services, including health, development, and disability supports. The role also promotes parent engagement, community outreach, and access to resources while maintaining accurate documentation and data reporting to meet federal and agency requirements.
Responsibilities:
Ensure compliance with Early Head Start (EHS) requirements related to family services, including developing and monitoring Family Partnership Agreements, documenting services, and completing case management requirements in a timely manner. Recruit, enroll, and maintain full enrollment of eligible infants and toddlers; conduct community outreach and promote program awareness. Facilitate enrollment and orientation processes, including collection of required documentation (health history, nutrition assessment, consents, family needs assessments, etc.). Collaborate with EHS-CCP partners and support them through enrollment and program requirements. Conduct monthly visits to assigned childcare centers and family childcare homes; complete home visits as needed. Support developmental screenings within 45 days of enrollment and coordinate referrals for children suspected of having disabilities; assist families with IFSP development and related services. Provide health program orientation; support families in accessing medical, dental, mental health, and community resources; maintain accurate health documentation. Implement the Head Start Parent, Family, and Community Engagement Framework; plan and facilitate parent engagement, educational activities, and family literacy opportunities. Assist families in accessing childcare subsidies and other essential services, including crisis support (food, housing, clothing, transportation). Maintain accurate data entry and documentation in agency databases to meet federal and internal monitoring requirements. Collaborate with childcare center directors, teachers, and staff to ensure compliance with Head Start Performance Standards and licensing regulations. Support parent involvement through volunteer coordination, advisory groups, policy councils, and transition planning to Head Start or other preschool programs. Participate in community outreach, meetings, workshops, and professional development activities. Maintain confidentiality and comply with mandated reporting requirements. Perform other related duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
Associate degree in Social Work or a related field and three years of experience in an early childhood setting. Knowledge of Head Start Performance Standards and program policies is preferred. Ability to work effectively with diverse populations and build respectful, trusting relationships with staff, partners, service providers, and families. Experience collaborating with EHS teams to support parents of infants and toddlers in advocacy and decision-making. Ability to coordinate with community service providers and access local resources for children and families. Proficiency in using agency resources and technology to guide and support staff and parents. Ability to work both independently and within a team environment. Reliable transportation, valid driver's license, and vehicle insurance, with the ability to travel regularly between childcare sites. Successful completion of FBI and BCI background checks and pre-employment drug screening. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
Pay:
$18.00 - $20.00 per hour
Benefits:
Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance
