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Center Support Staff at Mary Crane Center

Mary Crane Center · Chicago, United States Of America · Onsite

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Description

Inspire Learning and Support Every Child’s Growth

Are you passionate about helping young children explore, learn, and develop the skills they need for lifelong success? Do you enjoy creating safe, welcoming environments where children and families feel supported?


If so, we invite you to join our team as Center Support Staff in our Early Childhood and Head Start programs.

As a Center Support Staff member, you’ll work closely with teachers, parents, and children to introduce early learning concepts, provide classroom support, and ensure smooth day-to-day operations of the center. You’ll have the chance to make a meaningful impact on children’s early experiences and support families along the way.


What You’ll Do

Support Children’s Learning and Development

  • Assist Lead and Assistant Teachers in instructing and supervising children
  • Implement age-appropriate activities aligned with Head Start, NAEYC standards, and the Creative Curriculum
  • Model positive behavior and use supportive, consistent guidance
  • Support family-style eating routines during meals
  • Monitor children’s safety and report any concerns regarding child abuse or neglect
     

Observe and Assess

  • Maintain anecdotal notes, photos, and other approved documentation for each child 
  • Assist in tracking developmental milestones and classroom progress
     

Prepare Curriculum and Activities

  • Research, plan, and help develop lesson plan activities 
  • Assist in preparing classroom materials and setting up learning environments 
  • Support individualized activities for children as directed by teachers
     

Communicate with Families

  • Maintain open communication with parents through conferences, home visits, and daily updates
  • Share information about classroom routines, expectations, policies, field trips, and volunteer opportunities
  • Document parental signatures on incident reports, permission slips, and other required forms
  • Advocate for children and families, helping resolve concerns as they arise
     

Administrative and Team Collaboration

  • Assist with classroom and office documentation, including attendance, meal count sheets, and educational records
  • Maintain accurate classroom and office supply lists and inventory
  • Actively participate in team meetings, in-services, and professional development activities 
  • Work collaboratively with Site Directors, teachers, administrative staff, and other specialists
     

Maintain Classrooms and Workspaces

  • Ensure classrooms and offices are clean, organized, and safe 
  • Sanitize surfaces, equipment, and toys daily and weekly
  • Regularly check materials and equipment for safety and repair
     


Requirements

 

Education & Experience

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Minimum of 6 credit hours in Child Development from an accredited college or university (working toward 15 credit hours preferred)
  • Experience working with children is preferred
     

Skills & Qualifications

  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • Strong teamwork, communication, and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism
  • Detail-oriented with a logical, methodical approach to problem-solving
  • Flexible and able to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
  • Proficiency with basic computer skills and word processing
  • Bilingual (Spanish) preferred
     

Physical & Work Environment Expectations

  • Ability to lift up to 30 pounds, stand, walk, sit, kneel, bend, reach, and move with children
  • Frequent use of hands for tasks such as handling materials and keyboarding
  • Work takes place in classrooms and office spaces with moderate to high noise levels
  • May work at multiple agency sites and travel for meetings, trainings, or home visits
     

Why Join Us

  • Make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families every day
  • Collaborate with a dedicated, mission-driven early childhood team
  • Receive ongoing training, support, and professional growth opportunities
  • Be part of creating safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environments
     

Compensation & Benefits

Mary Crane Center offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance (HMO, PPO, DPPO options), paid time off, and wellness support programs. Eligibility and details will be shared during the hiring process.


Ready to Make an Impact?

Apply today and help us build classrooms and centers where every child can thrive and every family feels supported.


We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, veteran status, or disability.


Reasonable accommodations will be provided as required by law. To request accommodations, please contact 773-242-2881 x2886.



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