Preschool Aid / CDA Specialist

Connecticut Institute For Communities, Inc. (CIFC); Norwalk (CT); On-site; USD 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid holidays

Paid time off

Health, dental, and vision coverage

Retirement program

Job summary

The Connecticut Institute For Communities, Inc. (CIFC) is seeking a Child Development Associate (CDA) Specialist in Norwalk to support classrooms for children aged 6 months to 5 years. This role involves assisting in planning classroom routines and implementing curricula under the supervision of Lead Teachers.

Key requirements include a High School Diploma or GED, a commitment to obtain a CDA Certificate within one year, and a preference for candidates with previous childcare experience. The position also provides competitive pay and a benefits package.

Qualifications

• Entry-level position suitable for candidates 18 years and older.
• Previous babysitting or childcare experience preferred.
• Minimum of High School Diploma or equivalent is necessary.

Responsibilities

• Assist in planning and implementing classroom routines and curriculum.
• Serve as an aide in classrooms for preschool and infant-toddler children.
• Work under the direction of Lead Teachers and Education Services Professional.

Skills

Basic computer experience

Bilingual abilities

Childcare experience

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Child Development Associate (CDA) Certificate

Early Childhood Education credits

Job description

We are looking for a Child Development Associate (CDA) Specialist to support 1–2 classrooms of pre‑school and infant–toddler children in the Norwalk Early Learning Programs.

Summary

The CDA Specialist assists in planning and implementing classroom routines, curriculum, meals, and related activities for children ages 6 months to 5 years. The role serves as an aide in a classroom of 14–20 Head Start/Preschool children and/or 7–8 Infant/Toddler children, and performs core Head Start program functions and other tasks as needed. The position works under the direction of 1–2 Lead Teachers and is supervised by the Education Services Professional.

Classification

• Unit: Early Learning
• Immediate Supervisor: Education Services Professional
• Classification: Standard / Full Time (1.0 FTE) or Part‑Time (Hourly)
• Status: Non‑Exempt
• Directly Supervises: None

Requirements

• 18 + years old
• Entry‑level; previous babysitting or childcare experience preferred
• Basic computer experience required (e.g., email, word processing, internet navigation)
• Bilingual candidates strongly encouraged
• Minimum High School Diploma or GED equivalent (completed or currently enrolled)
• Child Development Associate (CDA) Certificate or commitment to obtain a CDA within 1 year of employment (paid by the employer) required
• Early Childhood Education credits preferred

Health Requirements

• Recent documentation free of communicable diseases (e.g., TB and COVID)
• Recent fit‑for‑duty examination
• Ability to lift 40 lbs.

Benefits

Competitive compensation, plus a comprehensive fringe benefits package including paid holidays, paid time off, health, dental, vision coverage, and a retirement program.

Closing Date

Open Until Filled