Child Development Associate Program Specialis bei Congreso

Position Summary 

The Child Development Associate (CDA) training program, funded by the William Penn Foundation, serves individuals seeking the nationally recognized CDA credential to secure entry level teaching careers in early learning centers throughout Philadelphia. The CDA Program Specialist provides intensive direct service support to all students throughout the duration of training so that 85% of those enrolled are able to secure credentialing and transition into training related employment. This position is responsible for PCM centered case management, which includes barrier remediation, goal planning, supplemental learning support, setting benchmarks for individual progress and providing ongoing coaching to help successfully transition clients into full-time employment that can be maintained for at least 6 months.  

This position reports to the Manager of Workforce Credentialing. This is an ONSITE position. 

The CDA Program Specialist applies the principles of the organization’s signature service delivery approach, Primary Client Model (PCM™), by promoting a positive employee/client-focused experience that is appreciative of the unique strengths, values and needs that each individual brings; and by using data to inform and drive decision making. Attention is given to compliance, quality assurance, and best practices as they relate to the role. 

Congreso is committed to attracting and retaining candidates who have a passion for their work and will serve as ambassadors of the agency’s mission, values, and DEI&B vision. We encourage all qualified individuals, including those of diverse backgrounds, differently abled, LGBTQ+, and women to apply. Congreso is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 

Essential Functions 

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential 

functions listed below. 

• Represents Congreso’s mission, values, and commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging and will be an ambassador of our work.
• Is responsible for providing daily case management services to all clients on the caseload, in accordance with Congreso’s Primary Client Model service delivery approach.  
• Ensures students comply with the time/attendance policies of the program and meet the required hours of CDA training as mandated by the Council of Professional Recognition.
• Orients new students into the program and ensures that all enrolled stay actively engaged, complete the academic requirements of CDA training, complete assignments accurately and maintain a commitment to successful completion and, ultimately, industry related employment.
• Provides educational support to the CDA Instructor when needed and provides supplemental workshops related to careers in Early Childhood Education (ECE) and employment in general.
• Provides follow-up supportive services for clients enrolled in employment and/or post-secondary education. 
• Offers barrier removal services by assessing client needs, identifying resources, making referrals, following-up, and documenting client interactions in external and internal databases. 

• Maintains client files in hard copy and electronic formats.
• Assists in the processing of clearances for all clients to ensure they have professional referral packets required for employment within a childcare facility.
• Ensures clients make a connection with the referred service, attending the initial appointment, if needed.
• Implements, by instruction and action, the philosophy of education and career/life learning exploration. 
• Reports on each initial client’s educational and social progress in detail through monthly narratives and weekly meetings. 
• Attends staff meetings, retreats, and actively participates in all funder, agency, and internal/external required training sessions. 
• Supports with data entry and reporting for the CDA program in all internal and funder databases.
• Adheres to all case management requirements as determined by the funder.

Competencies (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities) 

All Staff Competencies 

• Basic understanding of Congreso’s mission, values, DEI&B vision, Mission2Impact, Primary Client Model, programs, and services.
• Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of the community needs and demographics.
• Ability to understand, acknowledge, and assess client needs to provide a timely, trauma informed approach in service.
• Ensures the appropriate handling of sensitive information and understanding for issues such as confidentiality, domestic abuse, child abuse, and mandated reporter requirements.
• Adheres to all Congreso, departmental, programmatic, and security policies, procedures, and guidelines.
• Attends all Congreso trainings and in-services as required, including relevant professional groups to maintain professional, requisite knowledge and licensure.
• Attends, participates, and facilitates relevant staff meetings to promote communication and execution of goals.
• Ability to effectively use standard office equipment, including a variety of common software programs such as Office365, UNIDAD, and other customized databases.
• Follows through on assignments, works in a timely manner, within established deadlines, and completes special projects specific to the function of the department, as needed or as directed by supervisor.

• Demonstrates ability to work independently and collaboratively with diverse groups, in a compassionate, courteous, and respectful manner that fosters an inclusive environment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills including effective and respectful communication with individuals and groups.
• Bilingual (Spanish/English) written and verbal skills a plus.

Supervisory Responsibilities:  

This position has no supervisory responsibilities.  

Minimum Experience, Education, and Qualifications 

Minimum Education:  

High school diploma or GED/HISET required. Associate's degree in education, Early Childhood Education, or related field a plus.  

Minimum Experience:  

Minimum of 1 years’ experience providing individuals with supportive services and working in alternative education settings a plus. 

Certification/License: 

N/A