Senior Child Development Specialist

Placements24; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 640,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Professional development

Supportive work environment

Modern facilities

Career advancement

Pension scheme

Medical aid

Generous leave

Wellness programs

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Child Development Specialist in Johannesburg to lead curriculum development, ensure regulatory compliance, and mentor junior staff. You will assess child development, engage with families, and manage classroom resources to deliver high-quality early education.

The role emphasizes strong leadership, safety compliance, and professional advocacy for children's well-being, with a focus on building collaborative relationships with parents and the community.

Qualifications

• A relevant degree or diploma in Early Childhood Education, Child Psychology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in a childcare or early learning setting.
• Proven experience in a leadership or supervisory role within childcare.
• In-depth knowledge of child development theories and best practices in early childhood education.
• Excellent understanding of child safety regulations and mandatory reporting procedures.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work under pressure.
• Proficiency in relevant childcare software and administrative tools.
• Passion for child advocacy and commitment to positive learning experiences.
• Must possess a valid police clearance certificate and relevant first-aid certification.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement age-appropriate educational curricula and engaging learning activities.
• Oversee daily operations of the childcare facility, ensuring compliance with health, safety, and licensing regulations.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to junior childcare staff, fostering a collaborative and supportive team environment.
• Conduct regular assessments of children's developmental progress and provide individualized support plans.
• Maintain open and effective communication with parents and guardians regarding their child's development and well-being.
• Manage classroom resources, including materials, equipment, and budgets.
• Organise and facilitate parent-teacher conferences and community engagement events.
• Ensure a safe, stimulating, and inclusive learning environment for all children.
• Handle administrative tasks such as record-keeping, scheduling, and reporting.
• Act as a key point of contact for escalated concerns or emergencies.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem solving

Interpersonal skills

Multitasking

Education

Bachelor's or Diploma in Early Childhood Education

Tools

Childcare software

Job description

About the Role Our client, a leading childcare provider in Johannesburg , is seeking a dedicated and experienced Senior Child Development Specialist to join their dynamic team. This pivotal role is crucial for ensuring the highest standards of care, education, and well-being for the children in our programs. The successful candidate will play a key role in shaping early learning experiences, fostering a nurturing environment, and contributing to the overall growth and development of our young charges. This position offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact in a supportive and professional setting, working with a diverse group of children and families within the vibrant city of Johannesburg . The role requires a blend of educational expertise, emotional intelligence, and strong leadership capabilities. We are looking for an individual passionate about child advocacy and committed to professional excellence in early childhood education.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement age-appropriate educational curricula and engaging learning activities.
• Oversee daily operations of the childcare facility, ensuring compliance with all health, safety, and licensing regulations.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to junior childcare staff, fostering a collaborative and supportive team environment.
• Conduct regular assessments of children's developmental progress and provide individualized support plans.
• Maintain open and effective communication channels with parents and guardians regarding their child's development and well-being.
• Manage classroom resources, including materials, equipment, and budgets.
• Organise and facilitate parent-teacher conferences and community engagement events.
• Ensure a safe, stimulating, and inclusive learning environment for all children.
• Handle administrative tasks such as record-keeping, scheduling, and reporting.
• Act as a key point of contact for any escalated concerns or emergencies.

Requirements

• A relevant degree or diploma in Early Childhood Education, Child Psychology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in a childcare or early learning setting.
• Proven experience in a leadership or supervisory role within the childcare sector.
• In-depth knowledge of child development theories and best practices in early childhood education.
• Excellent understanding of child safety regulations and mandatory reporting procedures.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively under pressure.
• Proficiency in relevant childcare software and administrative tools.
• A passion for child advocacy and a commitment to creating positive learning experiences.
• Must possess a valid police clearance certificate and relevant first-aid certification.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary package commensurate with experience.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
• A supportive and collaborative work environment dedicated to employee growth.
• Access to modern facilities and resources designed for optimal child engagement.
• Potential for career advancement within a growing organization.
• Contributory pension scheme and medical aid benefits.
• Generous leave allowance, including family responsibility leave.
• Employee wellness programs and support services.