Early Childhood Program Specialist

Position Summary

This position interacts with parents, practicum students, volunteers, and team members to guide the educational activities of young children enrolled in the College's Early Learning Center. The Assistant Teacher works directly with the Lead Teacher and follows the general direction of the Center Director and Assistant Director, responding to each child's developmental stage with respect, courtesy, and understanding. Work is performed following Department of Early Learning requirements and the standards of Early Head Start, the Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program, and the National Association for the Education of Young Children.

• Plan and implement environmental curriculum with the Lead Teacher.
• Use Teaching Strategies GOLD and related databases; assist with teaching materials.
• Prepare and conduct parent/teacher conferences.
• Model appropriate behavior and developmentally appropriate communication.
• Observe each child's development and discuss findings with the Lead Teacher.
• Ensure children participate in activities suited to their emotional, social, intellectual, and physical needs.
• Provide outdoor activity options and maintain focus on children’s activities.
• Teach children responsibility for classroom equipment.
• Assist with preparation, presentation, and cleanup of projects and activities such as art projects, stories, songs, outdoor activities, and bulletin boards.
• Encourage language development and foster independence and self‑help skills.
• Maintain a healthy and safe environment; lift, move, and remove children from danger when necessary.
• Participate in staff meetings and in‑service training, which may include evening hours.
• Complete 10 hours of continuing education each year.
• Communicate with Directors and the Lead Teacher regarding information that affects program effectiveness.
• Assume classroom responsibility in the Lead Teacher’s absence.
• Provide oversight and guidance to Work Study Students and Practicum Students.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

• Expand knowledge and expertise related to the Early Childhood Program Specialist position through continuing education and training.

• ECE degree, CDA, or Washington State Credentials Certification (completion of one).
• At least 1 year of experience providing care in an early childhood environment.
• Proficiency using computer programs such as Outlook, Word, and Excel.

• Subject to a criminal background check before employment; results will be reviewed case‑by‑case.
• No H‑1B visa sponsorship; proof of U.S. work authorization required at hire.
• Complete a portable background check through MERIT prior to employment.
• Maintain valid First Aid, CPR, Food Handlers Permit, and Bloodborne Pathogens training certificates.
• Hold current MMR vaccination and Tuberculin (TB) test results within the last 12 months.
• Ability to lift and carry 35–45 pounds and respond in emergencies.
• Show regular and predictable attendance.

• Commitment to professional enrichment and learning in early childhood education.
• A passion for educating, caring for, and nurturing children.
• Ability to remain calm, patient, and understanding with children.
• Effective communication skills with team members, visitors, students, and parents.
• Respect for confidentiality, ethics, integrity, and sound professional judgment.
• Excellent customer service skills, including building internal and external satisfaction.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work with diverse personalities.
• Appreciation for diversity and commitment to cultural awareness and sensitivity.
• Willingness to earn trust, respect, and confidence through honesty and professionalism.

• Tacoma Community College application.
• Resume and cover letter; cover letter must address experience, training, and knowledge in caring for children 3–5 years old and supervisory experience.
• Copies of transcripts for all colleges and universities attended.

This is a full‑time classified position scheduled Monday through Friday for 8.5‑hour shifts.…