Program Assistant Jobs in Joplin, MO (NOW HIRING)

Classification:Full-time Status: Non- Exempt

POSITION SUMMARY:

Support comprehensive functions of all center staff by reporting to classrooms as needed to ensure an interesting and secure environment that encourages play, exploration, safety and learning for children participating in the Head Start program.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Follow the daily schedule and allow children the opportunity to make choices in learning experiences
• Interact with children in ways that facilitate the development of expressive language and thought
• Work cooperatively and appropriately with volunteers, professional partners, and co-workers
• Demonstrate realistic expectations about children's attention spans, interest, social abilities, and physical needs
• Team with center staff to provide an inviting, engaging and responsive learning environment
• Assist with observations and documentation of each child's developmental level
• Float among classrooms to meet supervision requirements for all children
• Eat meals with children as assigned
• Washes and sanitizes dishes, pots, pans, cooking utensils, silverware, carts and surfaces by using approved sanitation methods.
• Set up carts for next meal service.
• Food preparation as assigned
• Complete routine maintenance of kitchen and equipment, including weekly deep cleaning.
• Assist with food storage and inventory in accordance with all food safety and sanitation guidelines and regulations.
• Follow current CACFP guidelines and expectations.
• Comply with Head Start Performance Standards, and Program Policies.
• May be required to assist Lead Cook/Prep Cook in cooking and preparing meals.
• Utilize Positive Behavior Support (PBS) strategies to prevent and defuse disruptive behavior.
• Respect and support cultural differences and diverse family structures.
• Demonstrate good work habits such as arriving on time and adhering to appropriate break times.
• Attend mandatory In-Service trainings and staff meetings.
• Responsibility to report any suspected abuse or neglect to appropriate authority.
• Advocate for SEK-CAP, Inc. in the community.
• Maintain and assure confidentiality and privacy of SEK-CAP customers.
• Uphold and promote the core values and mission statement of SEK-CAP.
• Support management decisions both in actions and words.

• Other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE:

Essential:

• Basic computer skills
• Basic operation skills of general office equipment such as photocopiers, faxes, and phone systems
• Ability to get along with diverse personalities; tactful, mature, and flexible
• Ability to meet and deal tactfully with the public and to communicate effectively and clearly both orally and in writing
• Resourceful and well organized
• Must be able to interact with children, families and co-workers in an optimistic manner
• Ability to establish and maintain positive, effective working relationships with co-workers, community partners, and customers
• Ability to learn and adapt to change Desired:
• Knowledge of Head Start Performance Standards.
• Knowledge of area resources.
• Knowledge of Early Childhood Development.

EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATIONS:

• High School diploma or GED is required.
• CDA or Associates in ECD or equivalent is
• Obtain CDA within 18 months or an Associates in
• Obtain First Aid and CPR certification within 30 days.
• Obtain Bus Monitoring training at first available
• Successfully complete a physical exam and TB skin test before beginning employment and every three years
• Submit to and pass standard criminal history
• Submit to and pass standard drug screen test.
• Possess current, valid driver's license and meet agency insurance underwriting guidelines.
• Successfully complete a physical exam and TB skin test before beginning employment.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The physical demands and work environment 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.

• This position requires the ability to use hands and fingers to handle or operate objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; and communicate effectively in person and by telephone.
• Vision requirements include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
• The employee must be able to sit, stand, walk, stoop, kneel, and crouch regularly throughout the day.
• Regularly, the employee must lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• The work environment may include occasional exposure to wet and/or humid conditions, outdoor weather, and temperature extremes such as heat and cold. The noise level is generally quiet to moderate but can be loud.

Other:

• Layoff is dependent upon agency's need or availability of work.

The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or logical assignment to the position. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Disability insurance
  
• Health insurance
• Paid sick time
• Paid time off
• Paid training
• Paid Life Insurance
• Referral program
• Vision insurance

Weekly day range:

• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person

SEK-CAP, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic as established by law.