Child Development & Education Program Specialist

Position Overview

This role is responsible for managing the day-to-day functioning of multiple child development centers, including gathering key child development data for system entry. The position also supports home visitor programs and helps ensure that all program activities align with federal requirements and regulations.

The job description outlines the main duties associated with the classification, but it does not cover every task that may be assigned.

Core Duties

• Direct the operations of child development centers, including renewal of center licenses and completion of all required paperwork to maintain compliance with state regulations.
• Visit child development sites in person, observe interactions among staff, children, and parents, and suggest improvements where needed.
• Manage supply and equipment purchasing for centers while ensuring vendor contract requirements are followed.
• Oversee fee collection processes, address billing issues, and coordinate invoicing with outside agencies when needed.
• Support the home visitor program by preparing curriculum and materials and acting as a resource for home visitors and participating families.
• Help develop contracts and agreements between social service providers and the child development program.
• Supervise the collection of program data and its entry into the management information system.
• Maintain databases for child development center participants funded through human services or grants, and produce compliance and management reports.
• Create information systems for assigned programs, identify operational issues, and recommend changes that help meet project goals.
• Develop computer programs that provide staff with information derived from system data, and troubleshoot hardware or software problems.
• Take part in hiring for assigned program staff, arrange or deliver training, address performance issues, and carry out disciplinary procedures when necessary.
• Prepare analytical and statistical reports covering program operations and activities.

Additional Duties

• Attend professional meetings and remain current on new developments and trends in community and social service programs.
• Carry out other related responsibilities as assigned.

Education and Experience

A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in child development, social services, education, public administration, or information systems is required, along with three years of experience in child development or social service programs. At least one of those years must be in a supervisory or lead role.

Relevant education and experience may be substituted on a year-for-year basis if they directly match the minimum qualifications.

Additional Requirements

Experience with management information systems is preferred. A valid New Mexico Driver's License is required, or the ability to obtain one by the hiring date. A City Operator's Permit (COP) must be obtained within six months of hire.

Working Conditions

The work is performed in an office setting, includes travel between sites, and involves regular exposure to computer screens. Physical demands may include sitting for extended periods and operating a motor vehicle or equipment.

Notes

Job duties listed here are intended as a general guide for the classification and may not include every task that could be assigned.