Jobs/Roles in the ECE Community: National/Federal Level

https://www.zerotothree.org/resources/1185-careers-at-zero-to-three

The first organization I selected was Zero to Three, and the available job that best fits something that I would be interested in is the Regional Field Specialist position.  This organization appeals to me because it has always been one of the top resources for me as an early childhood professional.  The Regional Field Specialist's primary focus is to support ACF RO staff’s work with Head Start/Early Head Start programs and other early childhood programs, in particular efforts related to the design and delivery of comprehensive school readiness services for children birth-to-five.  

Some of the skills and experience are:

Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field preferred

Minimum of seven years of experience in the field of Early Care and Education

Strong knowledge of early childhood development birth to five;

Strong knowledge of CLASS Pre-K observation tool and other program, teacher and child-level assessment tools commonly used in early childhood preschool programs;

Strong knowledge of Head Start program development, the Head Start Program Performance Standards, Head Start Outcomes Framework, and HS technical assistance resources;

Strong knowledge of CCDF and Public Pre-K programming trends and regulations in states and territories;

Excellent conceptual, written and oral skills;

Experience with organizing, developing and providing technical assistance resources to a variety of audiences;

Ability to work with a team as well as independently;

Strong oral, written and computer skills;

Strong interpersonal skills;

Ability to read, analyze and interpret complex documents

https://www.naeyc.org/about/jobs/overview

The second national organization that came to mind was the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).  From my perspectives as an early childhood professional, this association sets the standards along with thoughtfully and professionally addressing current issues in the field.  To my surprise all of the NAEYC jobs are located where I live right now in Washington, DC.  Although there are not many jobs that are available, the one that most stood out to me was the Membership Sales Representative position.  One of the primary responsibilities is to promote and sell NAEYC group membership to school districts, child care centers and other employers of potential NAEYC members. I think that this would be a great opportunity to get my foot in the door with an association I completely respect and believe in.

Some of the qualifications are:

Bachelor's degree in related field with a minimum of 3-5 years related experience in a membership association or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Understanding of the NAEYC’s purpose to promote high-quality early learning for all young children

Extensive experience with customer service and outreach success.

Strong attention to detail with ability to multitask with the ability to perform duties with minimum supervision.

Proficiency in operating Windows/Microsoft Office is a requirement.

Excellent interpersonal verbal and written communication skills.

Fluency in written and spoken Spanish.

 

https://www.nhsa.org/our-work/professional-development/careers

          The third national organization that interests me is National Head Start Association because I have worked within the program before and they are a model program.  One job that stood out to me, although it is not available right now where I am, is the Head Start Education Coordinator.  This position is responsible for the education and early childhood development portion of the Head Start program.  It includes, but is not limited to, planning, managing, supervising and coordinating an early childhood education curriculum, providing educational resources for staff and parents, ensuring compliance with performance standards, child care licensing regulations, and recognizing best practices in the field of early childhood education.

Qualifications/Skills/Requirements:

Bachelor Degree in Education with concentration in Early Childhood education or if in a related field, two years’ experience in ECE.

Two years or more experience in supervision, parent education, and staff training.

Ability to converse, write and read Spanish and English fluently.

Commitment to dual language learning philosophy (English and Spanish).

Demonstrated knowledge of child growth and development.

Ability to communicate and work effectively with diverse parents, professionals, and community groups.

Ability to analyze and use data to inform decision-making.

Ability to work effectively and collaboratively with a team.

Strong organizing and problem solving skills.

Strong report writing and research skills

Ability to work flexible hours (evenings).