Teacher Assistant - Head Start

**JOB CATEGORY: CHILDHOOD EDUCATION / EARY HEAD START / HEAD START / CHILDREN'S SERVICES** **POSITION SUMMARY**: This position works as part of a teaching team to assist in the orderly functioning of the classroom to provide an appropriate social-emotional environment in order to expand the child's ability to learn and grow. Position may involve the reassignment to various classrooms/centers as deemed necessary for program operations. ### Qualifications **REQUIREMENTS** **EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:** - 18 years or older. - High school diploma or general education degree (GED) required. - Must have one of the following: - Current Child Development Associate (CDA) credential for preschool-aged children;OR - State-awarded certificate for center-based preschool teachers including the New Mexico Child Development Certificate (CDC);OR - One-year certificate in Early Childhood Education; OR - Office of Head Start approved CDA equivalent; OR - enrolled within ten business days of hire in one of the above programs that will be completed within two years; OR - an Associate or Bachelor’s degree (in any area) or enrolled in a program leading to such a degree. - Must complete a 45 hour entry level course or an approved three credit early care and education course or equivalent approved by the New Mexico Children Youth & Families Department prior to or within six months of hire. - Experience working with children ages birth through five years in an early childhood environment preferred. - Bilingual Spanish / English or Navajo / English preferred. **CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS:** - Have or be able to obtain First Aid and BLS/CPR certifications within 30 days of hire. Certifications must meet the requirements listed in the document “BLS / CPR / ACLS & First Aid Training Resources” posted on Staurolite. It is your responsibility to keep your certifications current at all times. **SCREENING REQUIREMENTS:** This position requires successful completion of an initial post-offer of employment: - Health exam (and annually thereafter in accordance with PMS Policies). - TB Test (and upon exposure in accordance with PMS Policies). In accordance with the federal Head Start Act, Section 648A(g) and the New Mexico Administrative Code 8.8.3., this position requires: - Criminal Background Checks. **BONUSES** **$100 EMPLOYEE REFERRAL BONUS** - All bonuses subject to tax withholding and eligibility requirements. **ABOUT PMS** - Founded in 1969, PMS is a non-profit organization with over 1,300 employees providing services at 100+ locations in New Mexico. - Our diverse services include primary care, dental, behavioral health, early childhood education, supportive living, and senior programs. - We concentrate our resources on meeting the needs of underserved areas of New Mexico. - We operate the largest network of federally qualified health centers in the state. - PMS is not affiliated with Presbyterian Healthcare Services, Presbyterian Hospitals or Presbyterian Health Plan. **WHY PMS?** - Mission-driven organization - Competitive salaries - Nine paid holidays and generous PTO - Medical, dental & vision insurance - Free Life & LTD coverage - Free discretionary pension plan contribution - Employee recognition and engagement activities - Robust training program - Tuition reimbursement **EOE/AA/M/F/SO/Vet/Disability**