Child Development Specialist

Job Summary: The position relates to people of diverse educational, cultural and economic backgrounds.

Essential Functions

Functions listed are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.

• Meets with Center participants to familiarize them with the Center and the Child Development program and completes all required paperwork.


• Assists with aggressive outreach and recruitment activities.


• Ensures that every child’s file is complete and accurate and that immunizations are up to date.


• Ensures that confidentiality of all records and conversations with and about participants is maintained.


• Maintains contact with key individuals in community agencies to facilitate referrals, makes referrals, and follows up as necessary on referrals.


• Provides formal and informal parenting education to families addressing specific developmental needs of their children.


• Oversees the health, safety, and well-being of all the children.


• Plans and implements a developmentally appropriate program for infants and toddlers, including screenings, assessments, and development of children's individual classroom plans.


• Demonstrates a sound knowledge of good teaching practices and of child growth and development.


• Reports directly to Center Director concerning Child Development Program and other job responsibilities.


• Functions as member of the Center program management team. Provides parents with information and support in their parenting role.


• Complete all required paperwork.


• Oversees all aspects of program development for infants and toddlers.


• Facilitates the smooth flow of the program and ensures its adherence to stated philosophy.


• Attends staff meetings and trainings required by sponsoring agency and Maryland Family Network (MFN).


• Performs other duties as required.

Supervision: The position reports to the Director. The position supervises three department staff.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

The employee is expected to perform or possess the following:

• Communications Skills: Ability to build and maintain effective relationships with advisory board members, state and local officials, private-sector partners, local organizations and community groups. Ability to write clearly and informatively; ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from staff, supervisors and stakeholders individually and in group settings.


• Customer Service: Represents the department professionally and effectively in both internal and external interactions. Manages difficult, sensitive or challenging situations successfully. Treats others with respect and consideration regardless of cultural background, status, or position. Exhibits objectivity and openness to others’ views.


• Leadership and Management Skills: Builds commitment and supports employee growth and success. Demonstrates ability to create and work in a team-oriented environment. Builds morale and group commitment to goals and objectives. Demonstrates effective problem-solving and decision-making abilities.


• Innovation and Change Management Skills: Displays original thinking and creativity. Develops innovative approaches and ideas. Presents ideas and information in a manner that is easily understood. Understands and contributes to evolving processes in response to changing communities and advances in technology.


• Technical Skills: Effectively utilizes standard and advanced database software to write queries, develop relational databases, and run reports. Ability to perform Internet searches and conduct online correspondence.


• First Aid and CPR certification or complete certification within 30 days of hire.

Education and Experience:

1. Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Special Education, Child Development, or a related field. Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Development preferred.

2. Experience working with young children from birth through three years of age.

3. One year of supervisory experience.

4. Or equivalent technical training, education or experience.

Physical and Environmental Conditions:

Work is conducted in a normal classroom setting which provides comfortable lighting, temperature and air conditions. Occasional light lifting, such as three to four reams of paper, four or five books, or other materials (up to 50 pounds) may be required.

Work environment involves everyday risks or discomforts which require normal safety precautions typical of such places as offices or meeting rooms, e.g. use of safe workplace practices with office equipment, and/or avoidance of trips and falls and observance of fire regulations.