Early Childhood Specialist Job Rutherford College North Carolina USA,Education / Teaching

Location: Rutherford College

Position Summary

The Early Childhood Specialist 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.

Positions are available in Burke and Caldwell counties.

Essential Duties / Responsibilities

Plan and implement age-appropriate curriculum and classroom activities

Lead daily classroom operations, including routines, transitions, and supervision of children

Ensure compliance with NC licensing, Head Start Performance Standards, NC Pre-K, CACFP, and agency policies

Maintain a safe, clean, and organized classroom environment

Supervise, support, and mentor classroom staff

Maintain accurate attendance and document absences

Observe, document, and assess children’s development, behavior, and health concerns

Complete required documentation and data entry in Child Plus (or assigned system)

Conduct screenings and ongoing assessments as required

Develop and follow lesson plans aligned with program standards

Support children’s individual learning needs, including IEP/IFSP requirements

Conduct home visits and provide referrals based on family needs as assigned

Communicate regularly and professionally with families

Support family engagement activities and program requirements

Monitor attendance and follow up on attendance concerns

Maintain accurate records and submit required documentation on time

Meet or exceed CLASS performance standards

Support onboarding and training of new staff

Participate in required trainings and professional development

Maintain confidentiality of child and family information

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

Perform other related duties as assigned

Skills & Abilities

Demonstrates strong knowledge of early childhood development and classroom practices
Demonstrates a thorough understanding of NC child care licensing requirements and Head Start Performance Standards
Leads classroom operations, curriculum implementation, and daily activities
Supervises, coaches, and supports classroom staff
Maintains accurate documentation, assessments, and compliance requirements
Communicates effectively and builds relationships 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, transitions, and multiple priorities effectively
Uses sound judgment and demonstrates professionalism in all situations
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

Associate degree in Early Childhood Education or related field required

Experience

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

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.

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