Infant​/Toddler CDA Specialist

Connecticut Institute for Communities, Inc.

CDA Specialists work under the direction of an assigned Lead Teacher. The position is responsible for assisting 1–2 classrooms in planning and implementing classroom routines, curriculum, meals, and related activities for pre‑school and infant‑toddler children (ages 6 months‑5 years). The specialist serves in a classroom of 14–20 Head Start/Preschool children and/or 7–8 Infant/Toddler children, supporting core functions of the Head Start program.

• Unit:
  Early Learning
• Immediate Supervisor:
  Education Services Professional
• Classification:
  Standard / Full Time (1.0 FTE) or Part‑Time (Hourly)
• Status:
  Non‑Exempt
• Directly Supervises:
  None

• Works under the supervision of a licensed teacher or assistant teacher to enforce learning for individual students or small groups.
• Administers and records achievement and diagnostic tests under teacher direction for students.
• Assists in devising special strategies for reinforcing material or skills based on an understanding of individual student needs.
• Assists with handling, operation and care of equipment, media and instructional materials.
• Assists in the supervision of students during emergency drills, assemblies, play periods, field trips and other non‑classroom activities.
• Assists with non‑instructional duties such as snack, lunch, toilet and clothing routines.
• Serves as a source of information and help to substitute teachers in the absence of the regular teacher.
• Assists with drill work, large‑group reading or storytelling.
• Alerts teachers to any problems or special information about individual students.
• Performs clerical duties as assigned.
• Maintains high‑level ethical behavior and confidentiality of student information.
• Participates in professional development training programs as assigned.
• Performs related duties as appropriate for the position.

Knowledge

• Principles and practices of Early Childhood education.
• Child development and learning styles.
• Computer data entry processes and family‑centered practices.
• Local resources, customs and languages (preferred).

Abilities

• Know and implement the Head Start Performance Standards and CIFC Early Learning policies.
• Exercise judgment in evaluating and making decisions.
• Establish and maintain effective relationships with staff, parents, clients, outside agencies and the public.
• Keep program information confidential.
• Carry out daily functions.
• Use program software and general computer for data entry.
• Reliable transportation; preference for valid driver’s license and required insurance.

• Communicate ideas and instructions orally and in writing.
• Speak, read and write English at a level sufficient for understanding.
• Understand all emergency announcements in English.
• Write observations and business correspondence.
• Read, retain and understand Health & Safety procedures for sanitization, disinfection, and meal‑time distribution.
• Speak within groups such as parent conferences and staff meetings.
• Bilingual skills helpful (English/Spanish or English/Portuguese).

• Calculate amounts by adding, subtracting and dividing.
• Accurately count the number of children in a classroom.
• Understand ratios such as 1:4, 2:8, 1:10, 2:20 child‑to‑staff member.

• Minimum High School Diploma or GED equivalent.
• Child Development Associate (CDA) Certificate or commitment to obtain a CDA within 1 year of employment (paid by the employer).
• Early Childhood Education credits or an Associate/Bachelor degree are preferred.
• Bilingual candidates strongly encouraged.
• Entry‑level position; previous babysitting or childcare experience is preferred.
• Basic computer experience (email, word processing, internet navigation).
• Applicants with multiple language capabilities (English, Spanish, and/or Portuguese) preferred.

• Recent documentation of being free from communicable diseases.
• Recent fit‑for‑duty examination.
• Ability to lift 40 lbs.

Competitive compensation, plus a comprehensive fringe benefits package including health care coverage and a retirement program.

CIFC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Provider.

Compensation details: $16.35–$17.35 Hourly Wage