The employee works under the supervision of the Center Supervisor. The employee will work on an “as needed” basis subject to being called in on short notice by the Center Supervisor. The employee may be called to perform duties to include classroom assisting, nutrition, custodial, and clerical. If in the classroom, the employee will manage the classroom in such a way so that all areas reflecting Early Childhood Development Practices are adequately met. The employee will encourage children to: initiate activities, solve problems, explore, experiment, question and learn by doing. The employee will implement the revised Performance Standards 45 CFR 1304.20 and 1304.21. If in the kitchen, the employee will prepare food as planned by the Nutrition Specialist and assist in the implementation of family style service of meals, as well as the modification of menus according to the special dietary needs of children. The employee may be exposed to dust, dirt, foul odors and other factors due to the breakdown of some equipment or systems. The employee shall adhere to the National Smoke Free Environment Policy Public Law 103-227, Pro-Children Act of 2001 42 U.S.C. 7181 through 7184 and TN Licensure Rule 1240-04-01-12(14).
Section 1 – Job Performance
Quality of Work
Ensure that sanitation, hygiene procedures and health practices are strictly adhered to daily.
Responsible for the preparation of foods in order that sufficient amounts are prepared, high quality is maintained, and CACFP standards are met.
Prepare and serve breakfast, lunch and snack within designated time frame according to menus, utilizing child size utensils during mealtime.
Keep entire kitchen areas clean daily, including stove, refrigerator, cabinets and equipment.
Complete work assignments remotely as needed.
Job Knowledge
Complete lesson plans that reflect planning for individuals, small and large groups including IEP/IFSP goals and objectives as needed. (For long-term Substitutes.)
Provide experiences and learning materials that are representative of children’s cultures.
Record refrigerator, freezer and milk box temperatures morning & afternoon.
Prepare and serve special diets as prescribed by physician or other certified personnel.
Store food to meet Environmental requirements.
Prepare and check sanitizing water for chlorine (kitchen) per training.
Prepare sanitizing water for peroxide (classroom) per instructions.
Initiative
Keep trash cans cleaned, lined, emptied and trash removed daily from center.
Prep food needed for the following day as assigned.
Prep classroom for the following day as assigned.
Provide monthly reports to supervisor.
Section 2 - Personal Performance
Dependability
Sweep, mop and/or vacuum all floors according to center procedures.
Clean restrooms and replenish paper products.
Attendance & Punctuality
Ensure all paperwork is accurate and submitted timely.
Regular attendance and timely arrival to assigned work site.
Submit accurate and timely employee time, attendance and mileage reports.
Relationship Building Skills
Secure and document in-kind contributions, volunteer time, and community support.
Flexibility
Continue any modifications that are made to include children with special needs.
Communication Skills
Communicate effectively with families during daily contact at the center.
Teamwork
Follow prepared lesson plans created by permanent classroom teacher.
Assist with monitoring classroom and playground for health and safety concerns.
Customer Services
Participate in ongoing recruitment targeting children from low income families, children with disabilities and pregnant women, and complete HS/EHS applications as needed.
Adhere to Agency’s HS/EHS confidentiality policy, professional ethics and standards, demonstrating work habits which comply with Agency Personnel Policies and Procedures.
Section 3 – Personal Improvement
Decision Making
Check and store all food and non-food items in an orderly manner and report any shortages, defective items and other discrepancies to direct supervisor.
Supports Quality Improvement
Ensure implementation of State Licensing Regulations, Head Start Performance Standards and agency policies and procedures.
Explore and share ongoing ideas/solutions for program and content area specific improvement.
Professional Development Growth
Attend the Creative Curriculum and the Head Start Child Outcomes Framework training to create a developmentally appropriate learning environment for all children.
Attend appropriate lesson plan training.
High School Diploma or equivalent. (Required)
Bilingual (Preferred)
Satisfactory physical examination prior to beginning work and every five years thereafter
Must possess a valid Driver’s License and current Automobile Liability Insurance.
Satisfactory criminal background check prior to hire and every 5 years thereafter. Drug testing as required.
Required Knowledge & Abilities:
Knowledge of Early Childhood Education.
Ability to operate and maintain kitchen equipment in a clean and sanitary condition.
Ability to establish and maintain an effective working relationship with the general public and fellow employees.
Ability to prioritize a complex workload.
Ability to understand and follow any oral or written instructions and make mathematical computations and tabulations accurately.
Ability to establish and maintain accurate records and methods for systematic reporting of statistical data.
Ability to travel extensively within assigned area.
Ability to be a mandated reported for suspected child abuse or neglect.
Ability to promote a positive and encouraging work environment.
Ability to assist in other positions as needed.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit; stand; stoop; bend; walk; talk; hear; use hands to grip, type; reach with hands and arms, occasionally required to stand or walk on uneven surfaces; climb stairs; run. 2 to 4 hours per day spent in strenuous physical activity, lifting up to 60 lbs. six or eight times in a 7.5-hour day.