PROGRAM ASSISTANT

Basic Job Assignment:

Under direct supervision of the Area Director, performs specialized paraprofessional-level duties to assure Grantee program compliance with Federal, state, local and all program funding sources.

Employment Requirements:

Knowledge of: 

• Modern theories, methods and practices of assigned areas of responsibility and expertise, including data-analysis and reporting (i.e. Microsoft Excel), early childhood education, social services, emotional and/or physical health, and learning and/or physical disabilities;
• Federal, state and local laws and regulations applicable to the Head Start Program and the assigned areas of responsibility and expertise;
• Head Start Program Performance Standards; Goals, objectives, policies and procedures of the NHA Head Start Program;
• Goals, objectives, policies and procedures of the NHA Head Start Program;
• Modern theories, principles and practices of supervision, including training and staff development;
• Record keeping and filing practices and procedures.

Ability To:

• Organize, set priorities and exercise sound independent judgment within areas of assigned responsibility and self-motivate towards assigned tasks and departmental goals;
• Operate a computer using word processing, spreadsheet and database software applications, and operate other standard office equipment;
• Interpret, apply, explain and reach sound decisions in accordance with program regulations, policies and procedures;
• Instruct and train individuals in a group setting and one-on-one;
• Communicate using tact, objectivity, confidentiality, sensitivity, strategy and judgment in dealing with volunteers, parents, partners, and staff;
• Understand/ carry out oral and written instructions;
• Demonstrated experience working with culturally and ethnically diverse, low income or no income families and unique populations.
• Perform efficiently and effectively in a team environment.

Qualifications:

Experience and Training:

A typical way of obtaining the knowledge, skills and abilities outlined above is a minimum graduation from an accredited college with an associate degree and two (2) years’ experience in a support position to a program providing?services to low-income children and families of diverse cultural backgrounds, and/or other at-risk populations, and/or grant funded programs, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS, LICENSES & CERTIFICATES:

A valid California Driver’s License is required. Certification in Pediatric First Aid and CPR must be met within 90 days of employment. Must meet and maintain state law and county licensing requirements regarding employment in a childcare center (fingerprints, immunizations, TB, and physical). 

Examples of Major Functions:

The duties listed below 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 a logical assignment to this position.

• Participates and engages in identifying, assessing, planning and implementing strategies and activities to support program compliance;
• Inputs data into the online PROMIS computer database system;
• Operates computer and associated office equipment;
• Provides ongoing assistance, support and guidance in assigned area of expertise;
• Assists staff in problem solving in assigned area of expertise;
• Collaborates with other team members and program staff as relates to program compliance;
• Conducts data-analysis and recommends solutions within scope of responsibility and expertise;
• Provides feedback to staff based on data-analysis;
• Participates in the development and dissemination of information and materials relative to subject matter;
• Interprets provisions of the Head Start Performance Standards for staff, parents and the community;
• Supports in-service and pre-service training designed to build capacity with program regulations;
• Performs administrative and other duties, as assigned;
• Prepares and submits compliance reports, spreadsheets and other types of visual displays of data;
• Maintains complete and current records of activities;
• Monitors records and reports of program services to children and families;
• Works with and trains center staff to ensure timely and accurate service delivery and subsequently data entry;
• Participates in parent/child recruitment activities and other ERSEA functions as directed;
• Other duties as assigned by supervisor.