Developmental Specialist

MAT-SU SERVICES FOR CHILDREN & ADULTS INC; Wasilla (AK); On-site; USD 52,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

The Developmental Specialist at MAT-SU SERVICES FOR CHILDREN & ADULTS INC in Wasilla, AK conducts screening, evaluation, and IFSP development for children birth to three, delivering services in homes and community settings to empower families as their child’s first teachers and to support optimal development in everyday routines.

You will collaborate with families, coordinate with the broader service network, maintain confidential records and timely paperwork, and participate in ongoing staff

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in special education, early childhood education, psychology or related field plus professional certification/licensure.
• 3+ academic credits in child development.
• Master’s degree preferred in related field.

Responsibilities

• Screen, evaluate, and assess developmental performance of children birth to age three.
• Develop and monitor IFSP based on parent goals.
• Support families via home, community, and virtual visits.
• Coordinate with other service providers and community agencies.
• Maintain records and submit required paperwork timely.
• Attend ongoing staff development and trainings.

Skills

MS Office

Communication

HIPAA compliance

Driver's license

CPR/First Aid

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education, Early Childhood Education, Psychology, or related field with professional certification/licensure

3+ academic credits in child development

Master’s Degree preferred

Job description

Position Summary: The Developmental Specialist provides assessment, evaluation, intervention services, and strategies to support families in fostering the growth and development of children birth to three years. This work is performed in natural environments (i.e. homes and community settings) to directly involve parents in providing optimal family-centered developmental opportunities for their child.Essential Functions and Tasks:• Understand, practice, and promote the vision and core values of Mat-Su Services for Children & Adults.• Provide screening, evaluation, and assessment of developmental performance of children birth to age three in areas of gross motor, fine motor, cognitive, social/emotional, language and self-help skills.• Complete enrollment procedures for children eligible for Infant Learning services.• Develop, monitor, and implement an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) that is based on parent goals for their child and family, including family assessment results.• Assist parents to develop confidence in their abilities as their child’s best teacher through joint planning and implementation of functional activities designed to enhance the child’s potential for optimum development.• Assist families in coordinating information and communicating with other service providers and community agencies providing assistance to them and their child.• Assist families in transitioning to public or private services when the child reaches age three or when exiting the program.• Work to establish a trusting relationship with families by providing regular contact through home, community, and virtual visits.• Participate in ongoing staff development and education, with the approval of supervisor.• Maintain confidentiality of children/families and their records.• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records.• Prepare and submit all required paperwork in a timely manner.• Other duties as assigned.QualificationsEducation• Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education, Early Childhood Education, Psychology, or a related field with professional certification or licensure.• 3+ academic credits in child development.• Master’s Degree Social Work, Special Education, Early Childhood Education, Psychology, or a related field preferred.Experience• 1+ years of experience in a field of early childhood or preschool activity, with children birth age to five, and working closely with parents in forming partnerships to provide services.• Experience in Training in Circle of Security Parenting or Parents as Teachers curriculum preferred.• Experience working in a non-profit or mission-driven environment preferred.Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required• Proficient with standard computer operating systems. Ability to navigate Microsoft Office Suite, online databases, and other programs and websites as required.• Ability to effectively communicate in written and oral form.• Willingness and ability to attain a CPR/First Aid Certification.• Can maintain confidentiality while understanding and complying with requirements of mandated reporting, duty to warn, HIPAA, and other limits to confidentiality.• Have the willingness and ability to work outside of normal business hours as well as Holidays and weekends as needed.• Ensure compliance with all MSSCA required ongoing trainings, certifications and background checks.• Flexibility, creativity, and ability to work independently with minimal supervision while organizing and prioritizing work flow.• Demonstrate the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.• As needed possess a current and valid driver’s license.o Driving record to be assessed by HR.Licensure, Certification, Registrations and pre-hire requirements: A current TB test, valid Alaska driver’s license with two (2) years driving experience, and proof of automobile insurance must be submitted prior to employment. Successful candidates must pass federal, state and local background checks Candidate must also provide three (3) verifiable references.Work Environment:• Environment: Must be able to work in a variety of home and community environments. Some extensive driving with various road conditions will be required and exposure to a variety of climates. Noise, lighting and odor levels will vary depending on the location in which services are being delivered. Dense staff population often requires sharing workspaces with minimal personal space and noticeable exposure to conversations and other distractions.• Hazards: May have exposure to blood and body fluids while performing your job duties. Unpredictable child and family interactions are also possible• Driving: This position requires driving to and from home visits, meetings, etc., on a variety of road surfaces and all seasonal weather conditions.