Professional Learning Specialist

Under general direction, is responsible for developing and presenting training programs and instructional materials through a variety of learning methods as part of the City's Pre-K 4 SA program. Responsibilities include researching and identifying training needs, developing teaching materials, and providing ongoing coaching to staff. Exercises no supervision.

Work Location

Various Pre-K 4 SA Education Center locations in San Antonio based on departmental needs.

Work Hours

7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; Monday - Friday. Some occasional monthly Saturdays will be required.

• Designs, develops, and delivers comprehensive training programs and instructional materials using diverse, evidence-based learning methods
• Facilitates and leads mandatory training sessions to meet and uphold childcare licensing, military childcare standards, and fee assistance program standards for all staff members.
• Supports independently owned childcare centers and family childcare homes through initiatives such as Texas Rising Star, NAEYC accreditation, MCCYN, and other continuous improvement efforts.
• Collaborates with early childhood educators and school leaders to assess and identify training needs, ensuring alignment with program goals.
• Collaborates with other city departments, community partners, and military stakeholders to align goals and strengthen the provider network.
• Creates engaging teaching materials and prepares detailed, effective lesson plans tailored to various learning styles.
• Acts as a model teacher by demonstrating best practices and effective teaching strategies in real time.
• Develops and writes comprehensive training manuals, handouts, visual aids, and program outlines to enhance learning experiences.
• Coordinates and organizes professional development sessions, ensuring the availability of necessary resources and materials.
• Regularly updates and revises course content and instructional methods to reflect current best practices and emerging trends.
• Participates in data analysis to identify professional development needs and assesses the effectiveness of training programs.
• Collaborates with administrators and other professional development coaches to refine curricula and design impactful programs.
• Conducts research on emerging trends and best practices to inform future program development.
• Provides continuous, post-training support to staff to facilitate the practical application of skills learned in training.
• Visits classrooms and school sites consistently to monitor the implementation of strategies learned through professional development and collaboration.
• Actively identifies personal areas for professional growth and seeks opportunities for ongoing education to enhance skills and knowledge.
• Translates newly acquired knowledge and expertise into actionable professional development opportunities for others.
• Performs related duties and fulfills responsibilities as required.
• Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university in early childhood education or a related field.
• Three (3) years' experience teaching and/or professional development activities.
• Valid Class "C" Driver's License.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's Degree from an accredited college or university.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish.
• Experience working with children aged from newborns through 5 years of age.
  
  

Applicant Information

• Unless otherwise stated, applicants are permitted to substitute two years of related full-time experience for one year of higher education or one year of related higher education for two years of experience in order to meet the minimum requirements of the job. One year of full-time experience is defined as 30 or more hours worked per week for 12 months. One year of higher education is defined as 30 credit hours completed at an accredited college or university.
• Applicants selected for employment with the City of San Antonio in this position must receive satisfactory results from pre-employment drug testing and background checks. If required for the position, a physical, motor vehicle record evaluation, and additional background checks may be conducted.
• Please be advised that if selected for this position, information regarding employment history as it relates to the qualifications of the position will be needed for employment verification. Applicants claiming military service to meet the experience requirement for this position may attach a DD214 to the application.
• If selected for this position, official transcripts, diplomas, certifications, and licenses must be submitted at the time of processing. Unofficial transcripts and copies of other relevant documents may be attached to the application for consideration in advance.
• Knowledge of early childhood instructional and teaching methods, practices, and procedures.
• Knowledge of program research and development techniques and procedures.
• Knowledge of design and delivery of professional development.
• Knowledge of theory and practice of student learning styles.
• Skill in using a personal computer, interactive whiteboard, presentation media, and utilizing associated software.
• Ability to present material to small and large audiences in a clear, concise, captivating and engaging manner.
• Ability to actively engage with young children.
• Ability to develop clear and concise reports.
• Ability to design and prepare visual training materials.
• Ability to customize professional development for all stakeholders.
• Ability to conduct classroom training programs.
• Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, supervisors, and training participants.
• Ability to perform all the essential functions of the position, with or without accommodations.
• Working conditions are primarily inside an office environment.