Center Support Assistant

Description

JOIN THE ECS4Kids TEAM

At ECS4Kids (formerly Episcopal Children’s Services), we honor young children’s immense potential by helping them enter school ready to learn. We cultivate lifelong learners by immersing children in enriching guided experiences and discovery-oriented approaches. Through programs like Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK), Head Start, School Readiness, Child Care Resource & Referral (CCRR), and more, our dedicated professionals work with families and caregivers throughout Florida to promote children’s well-being. These enable us to strengthen key areas including motor development, cognitive development, social and emotional development, language and communication skills, and problem-solving skills.

Partner with us to help empower communities to rise above generational poverty with comprehensive early childhood education and holistic family support. We have career opportunities available in several counties throughout Northeast and Central Florida. 

ECS4Kids offers a competitive benefit package which includes:

• Medical, dental and vision insurance
• 403(b) plan with 5% employer match
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Long-term & short-term disability insurance
• Employer-paid life insurance
• Paid holidays
• Generous paid time off
• Career development
• Qualifying employer for Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

The Center Support Assistant (Child Care Floater) plays a vital role in maintaining the quality and continuity of care in the childcare center by supporting various classrooms and staff throughout the day. This flexible position assists with daily routines, teacher absences, and classroom transitions, ensuring a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for children of all age groups.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

Classroom Support & Coverage

• Float between classrooms as needed to support teachers and staff with daily routines, including activities, meals, diapering/toileting, and clean-up.
• Provide break coverage and serve as a substitute in classrooms during staff absences.
• Assist with implementing age-appropriate activities under the guidance of lead teachers or classroom lesson plans.
• Maintain classroom organization and cleanliness in accordance with health and safety standards.

Child Supervision & Engagement

• Always ensure the safety and well-being of children.
• Engage positively with children, supporting social-emotional development, play, and learning.
• Follow established behavior guidance practices and respond appropriately to children's needs.

Collaboration & Teamwork

• Communicate effectively with classroom teachers, support staff, and management to ensure smooth transitions and consistent care.
• Attend staff meetings and training as required.
• Be adaptable to different teaching styles, classroom environments, and age groups (infants through preschool).
• All other duties as requested to maintain the success of the center and ECS4Kids.

(These essential job functions are not to be construed as a complete statement of duties performed. Employees will be required to perform other related marginal duties as required.)

ORGANIZATIONAL RELATIONSHIP:

This position reports to the Center Director

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS:

• High School Diploma or GED required
• DCF 45-hour training preferred

CERTIFICATIONS:

• Complete TB screening & physical before having direct contact with children. Renew every 2 years.
• Commence within ninety (90) days and complete within 12 months of employment, the DCF required 45-hour training.
• Complete on-line Food Handlers course Serving Safe Food in Childcare within 90 days of employment.
• Current First Aid and Pediatric Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) training.
• Completion of 25 hours of in-service training each year, July 1 – June 30

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE & ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of child development principles, licensing regulations, and best practices in early education.
• Commitment to strengthen families but with ultimate commitment to the well-being of the child.
• Ability to exercise control and maintain appropriate classroom discipline.
• Ability and willingness to implement the approved curriculum.
• Ability to exercise good judgment and emotional maturity.
• Ability to maintain confidential information.
• Knowledge of applicable safety and child abuse reporting procedures.
• Ability to work with children of varying ages,