Early Intervention Specialist

POSITION SUMMARY:
The Early Intervention Specialist supports teachers, children, and families by implementing developmentally appropriate behavior strategies, consistent with OCFS requirements for supervision, guidance, and safe child day care operation. This role provides consultation, observation, intervention planning, and staff coaching for children ages 2–5.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Child Behavior Support
•    Conduct developmental and behavioral observations.
•    Design individualized behavior support plans.
•    Model regulation and support strategies in classrooms.
•    Support teachers during high‑risk routines such as transitions. 
Staff Support & Compliance Coaching
•    Coach staff on positive guidance, supervision, and emotional regulation.
•    Guide teachers in behavior‑supportive environmental modifications through individual and group training.  
•    Support proper documentation of behavioral incidents.
•    Implement program‑wide systems for guidance and support.
Family Partnership
•    Meet with families regarding behavior plans and strategies.
•    Offer coaching on home–school consistency.
•    Collaborate on referrals to EI/CPSE when needed.
Recordkeeping & Regulatory Compliance
•    Maintain observation notes, interventions, and logs.
•    Ensure practices align with OCFS child safety and supervision regulations.

LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES:
•    Inclusion 
•    Emotional Maturity 
•    Communication and Influence
•    Functional Expertise
•    Critical Thinking and Decision Making
 

• Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education, Special Education, Social Work or related field.  Preferred is a Master’s Degree in Special Education, and Social Worker and NYS Teacher Certification.   

• Minimum of two (2) years’ experience in a group setting, preferably working with and supporting children 18 month – 5-year-olds and supporting the families through early childhood.   

• Strong knowledge and understanding of child development and special education. 

• Ability to relate to children, teachers and parent and develop professional, positive relationships. 

• Knowledge of YMCA policies, procedures, and requirements as well as NYS OCFS, DOH, and CDC. 

• Knowledge of Early Intervention, Special Education, CPSE  

• Knowledge of Pyramid Model, Conscious Discipline, and Social Emotional Learning (SEL).   

• Experience collaborating with staff, parents, and Early Childhood Directors.  

• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communicate with all levels including staff, parents, and community partners. 

• Ability to problem solve and make decisions that adhere to the purpose, mission and goals of the YMCA. 

• Ability to work as part of a team, as a role model and take initiative to identify potential risk factors and take measures to reduce them. 

• Child Abuse Prevention, Health and Safety from NYS OCFS within 30 days of hire. 

WORK ENVIRONMENT & 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.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

• Sufficient strength, agility and mobility to perform essential functions and to supervise program activities in a wide variety of outdoor/indoor settings. 

Salary : $24 - $30