Mental Health and Disabilities Specialist

Mental Health and Disabilities Specialist

Easterseals is a non‑profit dedicated to equity, inclusion and access for people with disabilities. We provide services and supports to more than 15,000 individuals each year, from early childhood programs to employment and veterans’ services. Join us as we strive to be the most inclusive place for people with disabilities to live, learn, work & play.

Hiring bonus: Receive a $2,000 hiring bonus.

Under general administrative direction, collaborate with staff and families to ensure delivery of services to all children, including those with identified disabilities, within Early Head Start, Head Start and Department of Education programs.

• Provide and ensure compliance within the Early Head Start Home Base services.
• Develop, maintain and track all Individual Family Service Plans (IFSP) and Individual Education Plans (IEP), children’s progress reports and all record‑keeping documentation in cooperation with Head Start Performance Standards.
• Work collaboratively with staff and parents on issues related to atypical behavior or development and the individual needs of children.
• Conduct on‑site behavioral screenings on children within 45 days of enrollment.
• Identify resources in the community and secure Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with each agency.
• Assist in the development and presentation of staff in‑service trainings regarding early intervention and other related topics.
• Attend IFSP/IEP meetings as directed.
• Perform other assignments based on expertise, knowledge, ability or program needs.

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Psychology, Child Development, Special Education, or a related field.

• Must have successfully completed an infant‑toddler class from an accredited college with a B grade or better.

• Possession of pediatric (infant/toddler) CPR and first aid certificate.

• Knowledge of policies and procedures of the California Department of Education, Child Development Division, and the Department of Social Services, Community Care Licensing program regulations, funding terms and conditions (Title 5 and Title 22).
• Ability to communicate effectively, through oral and written skills, and work cooperatively with a variety of individuals and groups. Must relate well to children and families.
• Exercise sound judgment, establish and meet timelines, plan, coordinate and implement school‑site programs.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office and related computer software.
• Physical ability: stand for extended periods; reach, bend, stoop, squat; fine manual dexterity; adequate visual acuity and depth perception.
• Pass required FBI, DOJ and criminal background check.
• Ability to travel locally, maintain a clean driving record, proper auto insurance and vehicle registration.

Physical Requirements:

• Carrying/Lifting:
Occasional, 0–30 lb.

• Standing:
Occasional, up to 3 hours per day.

• Sitting:
Constant, up to 8 hours per day.

• Walking:
Occasional, up to 3 hours per day.

• Repetitive motion/activities:
Keyboard activity, telephone use, writing.

• Visual acuity:
Ability to view computer monitor and read newsprint.

• Travel:
Locally.

• Seniority level:
  Entry level
• Employment type:
  
  Full‑time
• Job function:
  Health Care Provider
• Industries:
  Non‑profit Organizations, Health and Human Services, Hospitals and Health Care

Salary: $34–38 hr (starting pay range).

Enjoy the benefits of working with Easterseals Southern California!