Early Childhood Specialist

Position Summary The Early Childhood Specialist III provides leadership within the classroom and is responsible for planning, implementing, and maintaining a high-quality learning environment for children. Leads classroom operations, ensures compliance with program standards, and supports the development of classroom staff. Essential Duties / Responsibilities 1. Plan, implement, and evaluate age-appropriate curriculum and classroom activities 2. Lead daily classroom operations, including routines, transitions, and supervision of children 3. Ensure compliance with NC licensing, Head Start Performance Standards, NC Pre-K, CACFP, and agency policies 4. Maintain a safe, clean, and organized classroom environment 5. Supervise and support classroom staff, including coaching and mentoring team members 6. Maintain accurate attendance and ensure documentation of absences 7. Observe, document, and assess children’s development, behavior, and health concerns 8. Complete required documentation and data entry in ChildPlus (or assigned system) 9. Conduct screenings, assessments, and ongoing evaluations as required 10. Develop and implement lesson plans aligned with program standards 11. Support children’s individual learning needs, including IEP/IFSP requirements 12. Conduct home visits and provide referrals based on family needs 13. Communicate regularly and professionally with families 14. Support and lead family engagement activities 15. Monitor attendance and follow up on attendance concerns 16. Maintain accurate records and ensure timely submission of required documentation 17. Meet or exceed CLASS performance standards and support quality improvement efforts 18. Support onboarding and training of new staff 19. Participate in required trainings and professional development 20. Maintain confidentiality of child and family information 21. May be assigned to assist or temporarily fill in within other classrooms, age groups, or centers as needed to maintain ratios, supervision, and program operations 22. Perform other related duties as assigned Skills & Abilities - Demonstrates strong knowledge of early childhood development and classroom practices - Demonstrates thorough understanding of NC child care licensing requirements and Head Start Performance Standards - Leads classroom operations, curriculum implementation, and daily activities - Supervises, coaches, and supports classroom staff - Maintains accurate documentation, assessments, and compliance requirements - Communicates effectively and builds relationships with children, families, and staff - Supports children’s development, learning, and school readiness goals - Maintains a safe, structured, and high-quality classroom environment - Manages classroom routines, transitions, and multiple priorities effectively - Uses sound judgment and demonstrates professionalism in all situations - Demonstrates strong computer and data entry skills, including program systems Certificates / Licenses - Must meet North Carolina child care and Head Start licensing requirements for assigned position, including required TB test, physical examination, NC qualifying letter, and applicable documentation - CPR and First Aid certification required or obtained within required timeframe Education - Associate degree in Early Childhood Education or related field required Experience - One (1) year verifiable day care experience with children, birth to 5 years old. This job description is not an employment agreement or contract. Management has the exclusive right to alter this job description at any time without notice. Blue Ridge Community Action, Inc. is an at-will employer. Either the employee or BRCA may terminate employment at any time, with or without cause or notice.