Family Service Worker

Family Service Worker

Dayton Head Start - Dayton, TN 37321

The Family Worker is responsible for identifying and enrolling eligible children and families, maintaining full enrollment and waiting lists, and documenting attendance and service needs. Key responsibilities include completing family partnership agreements, securing in-kind contributions, and planning family engagement activities focused on school readiness and literacy.

Recruitment and Assessment:
Identify community agencies, conduct needs assessments, and recruit eligible families. Update the Head Start Resource Directory and connect families with asset-building resources.

Family Support:
Conduct routine and special needs home visits. Set objectives for families, provide referrals, and document follow-up. Provide direct transportation to appointments when necessary and manage crisis situations, such as child abuse or lack of basic needs.

Documentation and Monitoring:
Track child attendance, communicate with teaching teams, and maintain strict confidentiality of all records.

Team Support:
Act as a frequent teaching team substitute.

Engagement:
Plan parent meetings and small group sessions using the parent education curriculum. Encourage participation in the Policy Council.

Minimum:
High school diploma (or equivalent), two years of experience in social services or family/child-focused work, and basic computer skills.

Desired: A four-year degree in social work or a related field. A relevant two- or four-year degree or skills-based credential must be obtained within 18 months of hire. A CDA credential and early childhood training are preferred.

Additional Requirements

Screening:
Must pass a pre-employment drug test, criminal background check, physical exam, and tuberculosis screening.

Transportation:
Valid driver's license, satisfactory driving record, and personal automotive liability insurance are required. Occasional overnight travel may be necessary.

Physical Demands:
Ability to lift over 50 pounds in emergencies, stoop, sit in child-sized furniture, and maintain adequate vision and hearing to supervise young children.

Workplace Standards:
This is a tobacco-free workplace. Uniforms are required for certain staff members.