Refugee Resettlement | Childcare Specialist

Catholic Charities is looking for the right people; people who wish to serve their community as a part of a family friendly organization doing good within the Houston-Galveston area. We attract and retain the best talent by investing in our employees. People of all faiths helping people in need.

The Refugee Resettlement Department assists refugees in Houston to acquire the knowledge and skills needed to reach self-sufficiency and live with dignity.

The Childcare Specialist responsibility is to ensure the safety, well-being, and engagement of clients' children while their parents attend meetings with case managers, classes, or training sessions. This role will plan and facilitate age-appropriate activities, coordinate with case managers, and create a nurturing and supportive environment for the children in your care.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES

•  Provide attentive and responsible childcare for clients' children, ensuring their safety and well-being at all times. Create a welcoming and nurturing atmosphere to help children feel comfortable and secure.
• Plan and organize a variety of engaging and developmentally appropriate activities for children of all ages. Activities may include arts and crafts, games, educational projects, and outdoor play.
• Coordinate group activities that promote social interaction, cultural awareness, and language development among children. Foster a sense of community and inclusion.
• Collaborate with case managers to stay informed about clients' schedules, appointments, and program requirements. Prepare and adjust childcare plans accordingly.
• Establish rapport with clients' children and provide emotional support, particularly for children who may have experienced trauma or displacement. Encourage participation and provide positive reinforcement.
• Ensure that the childcare area is clean, safe, and free from hazards. Follow health and safety guidelines, including monitoring allergies or specific dietary needs.
• Maintain accurate records of attendance, activities, and any noteworthy incidents. Share information with case managers as needed.
• Be culturally sensitive and respectful of the diverse backgrounds and experiences of clients and their children. Adapt activities and approaches to align with cultural norms.
• Participate in training and professional development opportunities related to childcare, child development, and cultural competency.
• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• High School Diploma or GED
• One (1) year of experience in the child welfare field working with children or adolescents in a social service setting.
• First Aid and CPR certification or obtain it within the first 6 months of employment.
• Bilingual in any Refugee language 
• Valid Texas Driver’s License

SKILLS REQUIREMENTS

• Previous experience in childcare or babysitting, especially with diverse cultural backgrounds.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a caring and patient demeanor.
• Knowledge of child development principles and age-appropriate activities.
• Cultural sensitivity and the ability to adapt to various cultural norms and preferences.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with flexibility in adapting to changing schedules and needs.
• Empathy, patience, and a commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment for children.

...............................................................................................................................................................................................................

Catholic Charities is an equal opportunity employer.  We actively foster an environment that is free of racism, discrimination, bias, and harassment where all individuals are treated with dignity, safety, and respect.  Successful applicant must comply with federal contractor vaccine mandate requirements.

The work you do will help us advocate for the vulnerable among us, a network of support services to people of all ages and from all walks of life and religious backgrounds.