Qualifications Minimum Qualifications: Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field required; If candidate’s major is not Early Childhood Education, individual must have at least 36 credits in ECE or related discipline. A minimum of 2 years of experience working with young children and their families in an early childhood setting. Preferred Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree preferred. Previous leadership experience preferred. Knowledge, Skill, and Ability (KSA) and Competency Requirements: Knowledge of child development and learning environments; ability to understand the developmental progress and identify the needs of all applicable children. Ability to understand and apply childcare educational research, standards, and/or best practices. Knowledge of and ability to apply principles and best practices related to classroom control, behavior management, behavioral observation, teaching practices, and instructional methodologies. Skill in curriculum development and lesson planning. Knowledge of and ability to use relevant learning management platforms and tools. Knowledge of laws, rules, and regulations related to childcare. Ability to build and maintain positive relationships with children and their families. Ability to always maintain composure. Skills in facilitation, documentation, and record management. Ability to handle sensitive and confidential matters with tact and ensure data protection and confidentiality. Knowledge of allergies and dietary restrictions Knowledge of sanitation guidelines and health and safety laws, regulations, policies, and standards. Ability to analyze problems and recommend appropriate solutions/changes. Ability to communicate difficult or unpopular guidance or direction, while maintaining a positive relationship with management and staff. All employees within CAO are expected to demonstrate the following general competencies: Accountability, Adaptability, Collaboration, Communication, Customer Orientation, Knowledge of Relevant Policies, Procedures, Processes, Priority Management, and Problem Resolution. All employees in leadership positions within CAO are expected to demonstrate the following leadership competencies: Coalition Building, Decision-Making, Leading People, Results Orientation, and Strategic Planning. Physical Requirements and Work Environment: This position is in a school setting that is adequately heated, lighted, and ventilated. Normal safety precautions apply. The work involves light physical activity and may include moderate physical activity, such as moving furniture and equipment, lifting and moving children, pushing cribs/carts/strollers, and participating in planned physical exercises with children (e.g., jumping, dancing, running). The incumbent must be able to meet minimum physical requirements and work environment demands. Security Requirements: Must successfully complete criminal history records check. Employees may be subject to drug testing in accordance with the CAO Drug Free Workplace Plan. Must successfully complete a Public Trust investigation with a Child Registry check. *Continued employment is contingent upon satisfactorily completing a criminal history records check (or other applicable security clearance) and a pre-employment drug-test (pre-identified position only).