Early Childhood Technical Assistance Specialist

Technical Assistance Specialist

Responsible for providing comprehensive, culturally appropriate, values neutral technical assistance to early childhood education providers/programs enrolled in Grow NJ Kids. Technical Assistance Specialists are assigned a case load of center based and family based childcare programs in which they will provide mentoring, coaching, and technical assistance services to improve the early care and education system in New Jersey.

Essential duties and responsibilities include the following:

• Demonstrate an understanding of early childhood evaluation, assessment, and self-study processes, excellent knowledge of developmentally appropriate practices in early childhood care and education settings, and a thorough understanding of child development and family dynamics and management in early care and education settings.
• Becoming accountable and/or reliable raters in the use of the Environmental Rating Scales (ERS) including ECCERS, FCCERS and ITERS through training and observation.
• Use a variety of assessment tools to support program improvement in various areas including environment (ECERS, ITERS, FCCERS), family engagement (Strengthening Families Self-Assessment), and program administration and business practices.
• Attend ongoing training to become skilled in developmental screening tools. Use skills and knowledge gained in training to enhance TA services provided.
• Provides overview of Grow NJ Kids standards and self-assessment to providers/programs and assists in completion.
• Works with the providers/programs to develop and prioritize goals, while supporting, coaching and mentoring them through the Grow NJ Kids system.
• Provides appropriate technical assistance including but not limited to modeling, training, observation and feedback to Grow NJ Kids providers at every stage of implementation process.
• Conduct initial and ongoing technical assistance to Grow NJ Kids providers/programs.
• Assists in developing and facilitating training of providers/programs.
• Provide "continuing contact" support to providers/programs and collaborates with community-based programs.
• Ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities and maintain excellent time management.
• Participate in project evaluation and continually quality improvement activities (this includes completion of surveys, progress notes and quarterly reporting).
• Develop and/or complete individual programmatic tracking and technical assistance forms to ensure intensity hours are being met.
• Write onsite reports and summary logs following onsite visits noting observations, discussions and recommendations using correct grammar and punctuation. Write monthly and/or quarterly reports as required. Submit all reports in a timely manner.
• Assist programs in the development and implementation of a Quality Improvement Plan.
• Represent Grow NJ Kids in community meetings and other professional settings, including community outreach, as requested.
• The ability to maintain objectivity. Includes the knowledge and ability to maintain confidentiality and high ethical standards.
• The ability to communicate professionally and effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Participate in monthly reflective supervision.
• Develop and distribute resources and schedule of early childhood trainings as requested.
• Develop a cooperative working relationship between the childcare staff of participating programs, and other agency staff working with Grow NJ Kids.
• The ability to work independently and as team member and the ability to work cooperatively with other staff members and the community.
• Other duties as assigned by the TA Supervisor and Program Director.

Working conditions:

There are no unusual work conditions associated with this position. Noise level in the office is moderate. Professional/business attire is required. Employees are required to attend meetings at external locations and will therefore experience external weather conditions while in transit to and from various locations.

Physical requirements:

This position requires frequent driving and typing and the ability to occasionally lift up to twenty pounds of materials or equipment.

Disclaimer: This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties and responsibilities that are required by the employee.

Requirements:

Education:

Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood (or related field) and 3 years' experience with early childcare and education, children and families. Experience providing professional development to other adults is preferred. Candidates must be able to demonstrate expertise through certification, endorsement, or practical experience in the following content areas: Learning Environment and Curriculum; Family and Community Engagement; Child Growth and Development: Infant/Toddler Mental Health; Program Organization and Management: Health, Safety and Nutrition; Special Education and/or Inclusion; Family Childcare. Preference will be given to those meeting the criteria of NJ Technical Assistance Specialist within the NJ Workforce Registry Instructor Approval System.

Experience:

Minimum of three (3) years' experience working in early childhood education. Knowledge and expertise relating to early childhood curriculum development and positive approaches to behavior management. An understanding of GROW NJ Kids quality rating and improvement system that includes related content knowledge, planning expertise, process expertise and topical expertise. Knowledge of and ability to use a variety of assessment tools to support program improvement in various areas including environment (ECERS, ITERS, FCCERS), family engagement (Strengthening Families Self-Assessment), and program administration and business practices. Knowledge of current theory and research in child development and application to early childhood education practice. Experience working with or assisting children and families in a community setting. Two years of experience working as a teacher or primary care provider in an early childhood setting. Knowledge of the geographical location of the assigned programs.

Computer proficiency required with Microsoft programs. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills as well as interpersonal & oral/written communication skills required. Valid Driver's license with the ability to provide proof of ongoing automobile insurance coverage is required. This position will entail reimbursable local and statewide travel utilizing personal vehicle.