Training and Development Specialist

Training and Development Specialist - Preschool for All Workforce Development

Organization Summary

CAIRO, the Center for African Immigrants and Refugees Organization, is a bastion for African refugees and immigrant families in Oregon and central Minnesota, dedicated to forging paths to equity and social justice. We are a non-profit, service-driven organization steadfast in its mission to advocate for, support, and enable the growth and empowerment of African communities through a comprehensive array of programs and initiatives. Our work is rooted in the understanding that equitable access to education, health services, workforce development, and housing are pivotal to the prosperity of our immigrant and refugee families and communities.

Position Summary

The Training and Development Specialist will guide early childhood educators, providers and staff in workforce development related training for Preschool for All.  The Training and Development Specialist will work with program participants to create and complete plans to increase their ORO step levels. They will lead training sessions to help program participants complete training goals and collaborate with the Program Manager to develop and implement training that meets the needs of the Preschool For All workforce development program. 

This is a full-time, exempt position 40 hrs. per week, typically Monday through Friday 8am – 5:30pm that does require semi-regular evening and weekend work for training. This position reports to the Program Manager. The expected start date is July 1, 2025.

Responsibilities

•    Individualized Program Development:
o    Assist in the assessment and selection of providers who are interested in the program.
o    Participate in developing a training plan with each program participant to help them increase their ORO step level through community-based training.

•    Training:
o    Develop and Conduct training sessions on various aspects of childcare that help program participants be more effective at meeting Preschool for All standards.
o    Offer resources and tools to aid in implementing best practices within childcare facilities.

•    Translation:
o    Provide training in English and either Somali or Arabic. 
o    Translate training materials and program documents into Somali or Arabic.
o    Work with the Program Manager to identify the unmet language needs of trainees.

•    Mentorship and Support:
o    Serve as a mentor and motivator, offering ongoing support and guidance to trainees as they build knowledge and implement new skills.
o    Work with the Program Manager to ensure that all program participants complete a monthly meeting to track their progress and give feedback.
Qualifications

•    Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, Child Development, Human Development, or a related field; or equivalent practical experience in technical assistance and childcare management
•    3 years of childcare experience 
•    Proven experience in training, career development, coaching, consulting, or advisory roles, preferably within the childcare or education sector.
•    ORO step 10 preferred
•    Strong understanding of child development, SPARK, Early Learning and Kindergarten Guidelines, and Environmental Rating Scales applicable to childcare services.
•    Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with diverse childcare providers.
•    Ability to analyze data, identify growth opportunities, and develop actionable plans to drive positive change.
•    Passion for and understanding of childcare services and career development.
•    Ability to work with a diverse population base and have a strong background in working with the African Immigrant population and understanding of the nuances of the cultural values and beliefs of that community
•    Keep a professional demeanor and always maintain supreme discretion
•    Possess strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills; ability to write accurately and clearly.
•    Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, constantly changing environment
•    Strong ability to multi-task and deliver on deadline
•    Able to maintain up-to-date knowledge in ECE, PFA, and other aspects of early childhood professional development.
•    Strong organization skills and ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks with changing priorities; demonstrated project management experience.
•    Proficient in using common professional software programs, such as Google Suite, Microsoft Office, and Zoom.
•    Ability to speak Kirundi, Somali, Swahili, Oromia, Arabic, or other African language a plus
•    Strong organizational, computer, and research skills 

Starting Salary: $60k to $65k, Depending on experience

Benefits
•    16 days of accrued Paid Time Off.
•    5 Days of accrued sick leave
•    Up to 16 paid company holidays.
•    100% employer paid premiums for employee only medical and dental insurance
•    Low-Cost Vision insurance.
•    401(k) plan with an up to 3% employer match.

Work Environment/Location

•    Location: Portland, OR
•    The work environment will vary depending on the specific needs of the program but may include: 
o    Public events
○    Office and virtual platforms
○    Teleworking and working in an office environment

•    This position requires frequent use of a keyboard, monitor, mouse, telephone, and/or headset.
•    While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, stand, walk, and occasionally lift up to 20 pounds.