Congreso is seeking a full-time Instructor for its Childcare Development Associate (CDA) Program with an degree in Early Childhood Education (Bachelor’s preferred) and several years of management level experience working in child care.

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 Instructor provides high quality CDA instruction that meets the mandatory educational requirements for individuals to qualify for CDA testing and ensures 85% of the students obtain their certification.  This position delivers 120-hours of mandatory education that the Council of Professional Recognition requires of all applicants seeking the nationally recognized CDA credential. In addition to developing and delivering classroom instruction, this position supports in the areas of CDA credentialing, student-internship support, team planning meetings, student consultations, and facilitating new-student orientations. 

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

The CDA Instructor 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. 
• Prepares and delivers comprehensive CDA Program academic curriculum to TANF population. 
• Delivers in-classroom principles and standards as designed by the Council of Professional Recognition for CDA credentialing.  
• Provides instruction related to teaching infants, toddlers and pre-k-aged children activities to promote social, physical, emotional and intellectual growth needed in preschool, day care, or other child development facilities. 
• Utilizes technology including Microsoft Office software, email, and web-based applications to deliver curriculum.  
• Proven skills in curriculum development and teaching methodology. 
• Develops CDA Exam materials and subject matter through research, data analysis, and professional development training; develops CDA testing and registration processes and requirements. 
• Demonstrates instructional expertise in all the Keystone Stars credentialing system. 
• Serves as coach and mentor to students regarding academic progress, life skills, internship success, professionalism, and pursuing post-secondary education / employment. 
• Works with team members to evaluate student academic progress, identify solutions to students’ academic and social barriers, assess project performance, and serves on a selection panel for student internship interviewing. 
• Works diligently to achieve program outcomes as related to staff performance evaluation. 
• Participates in agency activities, quarterly meetings, and committees to share information that promotes the purpose and mission of Congreso.        

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: 

Bachelor’s degree in education or related field, required.  

Minimum Experience: 

3+ years classroom facilitation, management level experience working in childcare, and/or providing direct educational services to young adults, the community.  

Experience in curriculum development, teaching methodology, the CDA credentialing exam, and experience working in alternative education settings.   

Demonstrated organizational and communication skills and ability to support adult learners making the transition from welfare into the workforce.

Certification/License:  

PQAS credential is required.