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 and implement 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, support, and mentor classroom staff
6.    Maintain accurate attendance and document 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 and ongoing assessments as required
10.    Develop and follow 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 as assigned
13.    Communicate regularly and professionally with families
14.    Support family engagement activities and program requirements
15.    Monitor attendance and follow up on attendance concerns
16.    Maintain accurate records and submit required documentation on time
17.    Meet or exceed CLASS performance standards
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 understanding of NC child care licensing requirements and Head Start Performance Standards
• Leads classroom operations, curriculum implementation, and daily activities
• Supervises and supports classroom staff
• Maintains accurate documentation, assessments, and compliance requirements
• Communicates effectively 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 and multiple priorities effectively
• Uses sound judgment and demonstrates professionalism
• 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 the required timeframe

Education

• Bachelor's or Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education, Birth-Kindergarten, or related field

Experience

• One (1) year verifiable day care experience with children, birth to 5 years old.

Other Requirements 

• Ability to work as part of a team
• Ability to interact professionally with children, families, staff, and external partners
• Must pass a criminal background check and substance abuse screening
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of child and family information
• Ability to lead classroom staff and support team development
• Ability to stay organized and meet deadlines
• Dependable and consistent
• Ability to work flexible hours as needed

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.