Job Title Children's Specialist - 1st Shift Position Summary Children’s Specialists provide a safe, trauma-informed overnight environment for children ages birth through six. On the overnight shift, specialists focus on meeting children’s physical and emotional needs, supporting sleep routines, and maintaining a calm, nurturing atmosphere. Responsibilities include all aspects of direct care, teamwork on housekeeping tasks, and duties as assigned.
Full-Time Schedule: Tuesday - Saturday, 6:45 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
On-Call Shift: Saturday, 3:00 a.m. - 7:00 a.m.
On-Call Requirement: One 4-hour on call shift is required per week. On-call requires that you are able to arrive within 30 minutes to help cover the shift and care for children. Pay is time and a half your hourly rate if called in to work.
Essential Duties
Childcare & Supervision - Provide attentive, high-quality care, including feeding, diapering/toileting, hygiene, and sleep support.
- Prepare and serve light meals and snacks according to dietary guidelines.
- Support good hygiene practices such as handwashing and dental care before and after sleep.
- Monitor health throughout the night and administer basic first aid or medications as directed.
- Facilitate quiet, age-appropriate activities and calming routines to promote restful sleep.
- Use positive behavior management and de-escalation strategies for challenging behaviors.
- Provide trauma-informed care and support philosophy of care at all times.
- Offer a comforting, nurturing presence during nighttime care and transitions.
- Conduct intakes and discharges with the Crisis Support Specialist, ensuring complete documentation.
Safety & Compliance - Maintain the safety and confidentiality of all children throughout the overnight shift.
- Report any knowledge or reasonable suspicion of child abuse or maltreatment according to policy and state regulations.
- Complete all required documentation within specified timeframes.
- Review daily shift reports and apply effective overnight care practices.
- Follow licensing requirements, DCFS regulations, and Crisis Nursery policies.
- Support a safe environment through cleaning, sorting, inventorying, and organizing tasks.
Training & Staff Development - Attend pre-shift check-ins, monthly team meetings, bi-monthly all-staff meetings, and scheduled trainings.
- Complete and maintain all required certifications and training according to licensing and state regulations.
- Engage in ongoing professional development, including training on overnight care and trauma-informed practices.
Required Qualifications & Experience - 21 years of age or older.
- 2 years of college credit in Child Development, Social Work, Early Childhood Education, or relevant field OR 2+ years of childcare or direct care experience preferred.
- CPR/First Aid certification or willingness to obtain.
- Successful background check and completion of Mandated Reporter training.
Knowledge & Skills - Passion for the organization’s mission and goals.
- Strong understanding of child development and overnight care needs.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and stay calm in emergency or nighttime situations.
- Patience, creativity, and a nurturing demeanor.
Physical Considerations - Requires lifting and carrying children and equipment; standing, bending, and sitting on the floor.
- Ability to monitor and support children through overnight sleep cycles.
Benefits Medical, Dental, Vision, Life & AD&D Insurance, Retirement Plan, Flexible Spending Account, Health Reimbursement Account, and Supplemental Benefits
Pay Range: $17.05-$19.05 per hour depending on experience
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