Support Services Specialist

Academic and Work Experience Requirements

• High School diploma or GED.
• Child Development Associate Credential (CDA) or a state‑awarded certificate that meets or exceeds CDA requirements, or enrollment in a CDA credential program to be completed within 18 months of hire.
• One year of related work experience.

• Protect the physical and mental health and safety of children; no child is left unsupervised while under our care.
• Implement nutrition services that are culturally and developmentally appropriate and meet the nutritional needs of each child, including those with special dietary needs and disabilities.
• Maintain facilities, equipment, and materials in a clean and safe condition in accordance with federal policies and agency protocols.
• Implement hygiene practices that ensure appropriate toileting, hand washing, and diapering procedures; safe food preparation; and proper handling of blood and body fluids in accordance with OSHA standards.
• Follow appropriate practices to keep children safe during all activities, including reporting suspected or known child abuse and neglect, maintaining continuous supervision, and adhering to all standards of conduct.
• Support and participate in staff development, completing minimum training requirements as specified in state and federal standards, pursuing continuing professional development, and engaging in staff wellness initiatives.
• Respond to classroom requests for support in a timely manner, complying with Office of Head Start and agency regulations, policies, and protocols.
• Establish regular communication with teachers to ensure they are well‑informed about students’ behavior and progress.
• Monitor the classroom to ensure it is free from physical and environmental hazards.
• Report all incidents within the time frames designated in program policy and protocol.

• Conduct daily cleaning of facilities, including classrooms, offices, bathrooms, common areas, and playgrounds.
• Maintain inventory control of cleaning supplies, including ordering and receiving supplies.
• Perform or arrange seasonal deep cleaning and maintenance of the building interior and exterior (e.g., floor waxing, carpet cleaning, pressure washing).
• Implement hyper‑sanitation protocols when directed.
• Ensure safety and health procedures are followed in accordance with federal and agency policies and protocols.
• Prepare and serve classroom meals and assist with family‑style meal activities as directed.
• Wash dishes, pots, pans, and utensils using approved sanitation methods.
• Conduct routine inspections and regular upkeep of interior and exterior areas to ensure safety and cleanliness.
• Conduct daily inspection and grounds keeping of outside areas, including lawns, landscaped beds, playgrounds, and parking areas, to keep centers clean and safe between regular contracted site services.
• Notify supervisor of any safety or health issues or concerns.
• Assist with moving and/or transporting office and classroom furniture, fixtures, supplies, and equipment as requested.
• Launder clothing and linens in support of classroom activities as requested.
• Assist with classroom supervision as needed.
• Assist with set up/tear down for classroom and center activities, training, meetings, recruitment fairs, and special events.
• Assist with repair and maintenance of buildings, storage facilities, machinery, and equipment.
• Perform other job duties as assigned.

• Demonstrate ability to respond sensitively and competently to the service population’s cultural and socioeconomic characteristics.
• Communicate in writing and verbally in English and Spanish (preferred).
• Maintain emotional control and professional composure at all times.
• Possess a working knowledge of all INK policies and procedures.
• Organize and prioritize duties and responsibilities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Possess a valid driver’s license.
• Complete and pass a health examination.
• Confirm work eligibility status.
• Pass a driving history check.
• Clear a criminal background check.
• Lift up to 60 pounds, stand, sit on the floor, bend, squat, kneel, lift children, and engage with children.
• Be exposed to communicable…