Introduction

Ch’anik’na is operated by Seldovia Village Tribe (SVT) and is funded through grants to provide quality childcare for Alaska Native children in Seldovia. SVT has recognized that, not only do Alaska Native families need quality child care, but so do non-Alaska Native families in the Seldovia community. SVT has been committed to child enrichment/educational care for over 25 years for the community of Seldovia.

Ch’anik’na is a child enrichment facility that offers a diverse learning experience. We strive to integrate the past with the present and help the children in our care become their very best. We incorporate the unique native cultures of SVT into our curriculum including that of the Unangax, Yupik, Sugpiaq, and Athabascan people

Ch’anik’na (pronounced cha-NEEK-nuh) is a Dena’ina word for children’s house. The word, unique to our area, was specially chosen to represent our dedication to exploring and enriching all of our children’s various cultures, Alaskan and worldwide, and exploring the surroundings and cultural environment of the Seldovia community.

Our guidelines for children are:

“We care by using kind words and listening ears, share, trade, and take turns.”

“We are safe by using walking feet, inside voices, and following directions.”

Position Overview

Childcare Aides are responsible for the day-to-day supervision of children in the Ch’anik’na program while implementing planned curriculum, schedules and activities. 

Schedule and Benefits

• Up to full time hours available! Accepting applications for all schedule interests (part time, full time, seasonal, on-call, etc.)
• Full health benefit eligibility (100% premium coverage with 50% dependent coverage) begins at 32 hours per week! 
• Full dental and vision eligibility (100% premium coverage with 50% dependent coverage) begins at 35 hours per week!
• $200 sign on bonus!
• CEU allowance annually and financial support provided by SVT to attain CDA credential!

Duties and Responsibilities

• Collaboratively work with other Ch’anik’na team members in supervising children ages newborn and up
• Assist with and participate in daily classroom activities of the Ch’anik’na program
  • Conduct child drop-off procedures such as temperature taking and ensuring appropriate hand washing
  • Monitor and engage children during free play times
  • Lead or assist with circle time
  • Preparation of snacks and engagement during snack time
  • Conduct prepared craft activities
  • Monitor and engage children during outdoor play
  • Required duties for field trips and Science Fridays
• Maintain cleaning procedures and infection control protocols
• Adhere to regulations, mandatory reporting requirements, and SVT safety protocols
• Assist in the personal care needs of attending children, such as diaper changing and potty training, and utilizing the daily log to keep track of these activities
• Participate in organization-wide initiatives as needed
• Other duties as assigned

Specifications

• Reliability: Consistent on-time attendance is vital to the success of this position
• Confidentiality: Staff should not disclose or discuss personal information regarding children and their families with any unauthorized person.
• Team Oriented: Not only works well with others, but proactively seeks ways to ensure the success of the team.
• Interpersonal and communication skills: Strong, age-appropriate communication, connection building, and listening skills are essential to working with children and their families.
• Patience: Working with children requires the ability to respond to overwhelming and difficult situations calmly.
• Physical Stamina: Working with children can be physically taxing and requires the ability to meet and exceed the physical requirements of this position.
• Job knowledge: staff should seek to understand the needs of children, including emotional support, comfort, and problem solving.
• Reading/Writing: Must be able to read, write and communicate fluently in English

Job Requirements

ALL Ch’anik’na Staff must have the following:

• Employee is required to achieve the following immediately after hire (during first days of work) or already possess the following:
  • Mandatory Reporter Training completion certificate
  • CDC Milestones Training completion certificate
  • Concussion in Sports Training completion certificate
  • Sexual Abuse Awareness Training completion certificate
  • First Aid/CPR/AED Training required, provided by SVT
  • ADEC Food Handler’s Card required, provided by SVT
• Must have basic operating knowledge of a computer (Mac and PC) with basic proficiency in web browsers, Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Must be able to operate a multiline phone and copier
• TB Testing at hire
• FBI Fingerprinting
• Pre-employment drug testing
• Background Check

Childcare Aide I Requirements ($16.00-$18.00/Hour DOE)

• High School Diploma or GED Preferred but not required
• Must be at least 14 years of age
• If under 18, must have parent/guardian approved Minor Work Permit on file

Childcare Aide II Requirements ($20.00-$22.00/Hour)

• High School Diploma or GED preferred but not required
• Must be at least 18 years of age
• Must have 2 years’ experience in Early Childhood Education or related field OR Actively working towards either Early Childhood Education Certification OR Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or equivalent (must provide proof). 
• Must be at least 18 years of age

Physical Demands

• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to regularly grasp, type, see, talk, hear, and lift and carry 40 pounds of weight by utilizing proper lifting techniques and working in a safe manner.
• This position will also be performing physical activities such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, bending, and handling materials.
• Occasionally performs sedentary activities that require sitting for long periods and repetitive use of hands, wrists and arms for handling, positioning, moving materials, and manipulating things.
• Must be in good general health and free from serious physical, mental health and/or substance misuse.

Travel Requirements

None except for occasional preplanned conferences or educational opportunities

Work Environment

Seldovia Village Tribe is a drug-free, alcohol-free, and tobacco-free work environment. The environment is a classroom and general office environment. An individual in this position may be exposed to communicable diseases or hazards common to a childcare setting. Work environment may be noisy. Some work outdoors where exposure to natural elements including but not limited to sunlight, rain, wind, and insects may take place.