EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAM SPECIALIST

Arkansas Department of Energy & Environment; Beebe (AR); On-site; USD 43,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Arkansas Department of Education is seeking a Child Care Licensing Specialist to provide specialized support for early childhood programs. The role focuses on developing curricula and ensuring best practices while collaborating with educators, administrators, and community partners to enhance program quality and children's development.

The position requires frequent in-state travel and a strong background in early childhood education, with a commitment to ongoing professional development and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Education, Business Administration, or related field.
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in conducting assessments and program evaluations.
• Ability to work effectively with children, families, community partners, and a variety of personnel.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development and staying current with best practices in early childhood education.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement evidence-based curriculum and instructional strategies for early childhood education programs.
• Monitor and evaluate program quality and effectiveness, making recommendations for improvement.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation of program activities and children's progress.
• Collaborate with program administrators to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations.
• Conduct assessments and observations to identify areas for improvement and support.
• Communicate regularly with parents and guardians, providing updates on their children's development and addressing concerns.
• Foster a positive and inclusive learning environment that supports the social, emotional, and cognitive development of children.
• Stay current with the latest research and trends in early childhood education.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Multitasking

Empathy

Educational technology

Education

Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Education, Business Administration, or related field

Job description

Position Number: 22110658
County: White
Posting End Date: 8/20/2026
OEC
Join the Arkansas Department of Education where each student is recognized as an individual. Through a cultivation of world-class educators, partnering with communities, and an influx of social supports, Arkansas Department of Education provides multi-level supports that help ensure students will receive a personalized education and develop a life-long love of learning.

Position Information

This position functions as a Child Care Licensing Specialist. Frequent in state travel is required.

Job Series:

Education – Early Childhood

Classification:

Early Childhood Program Specialist

Class Code:

EEC04P

Pay Grade:

SGS04

Salary Range:

$43,088 – $63,770

Job Summary

The Early Childhood Program Specialist is responsible for providing specialized support and expertise to early childhood education programs. This role involves developing and implementing curriculum as well as ensuring best practices in early childhood education. The specialist collaborates with educators, administrators, and community partners to enhance program quality and support the developmental needs of young children.

Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and implement evidence-based curriculum and instructional strategies for early childhood education programs.
• Monitor and evaluate program quality and effectiveness, making recommendations for improvement.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation of program activities and children's progress.
• Collaborate with program administrators to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations.
• Conduct assessments and observations to identify areas for improvement and support.
• Communicate regularly with parents and guardians, providing updates on their children's development and addressing concerns.
• Foster a positive and inclusive learning environment that supports the social, emotional, and cognitive development of children.
• Stay current with the latest research and trends in early childhood education.

Knowledge and Skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities effectively.
• Empathy and patience in dealing with children and families.
• Proficiency in using educational technology and software.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Education, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in conducting assessments and program evaluations.
• Ability to work effectively with children, families, community partners, and a variety of personnel.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development and staying current with best practices in early childhood education.

Licensure/Certifications

N/A

OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.

Nearest Major Market: Little Rock