Child Development Specialist - AZ STEPS

Southwest Human Development•Phoenix, AZ

About The Position

A positive future for every child Southwest Human Development is Arizona’s largest nonprofit dedicated to early childhood development. The first five years of life are the most critical in a child’s development. At Southwest Human Development, our services improve lives and help families by supporting young children and their caregivers during this important time. Your skills, experience, and passion are needed at one of the nation’s largest nonprofits dedicated to early childhood development. Join our team and experience a long-term career which brings joy and satisfaction in knowing you make a difference. We offer over 40 programs and services to more than 140,000 children. Why choose us? Make an impact in a child’s life by promoting child health and development. Be rewarded with a rich benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and wellness plans, 401(k) matching every paycheck, and generous paid time off. Opportunities for continued professional growth and development. Supportive and collaborative work environment. Job title: Child Development Specialist - AZ STEPS The Child Development Specialist provides training, consultation, and technical assistance to early education and childcare programs to promote positive behavior supports and prevent expulsion. This role partners closely with early childhood professionals and families to strengthen social-emotional development, build caregiver capacity, and support young children’s emotional well-being through a relationship-based, consultative approach aligned with the agency’s mission.

Requirements

Bachelor’s, or higher, in Early Childhood Education, Education, Family Studies, Child Development, Counseling, or a related field
Experience working with young children in classroom settings
Possess an insured & reliable vehicle and a valid AZ driver’s license
Valid Arizona Fingerprint Clearance Card - OR - must qualify for a valid Arizona Level One Fingerprint Clearance Card
DES Criminal Affidavit Required
AZ DHS Criminal History Affidavit Required
FPC DPS Verification Required

Nice To Haves

Infant Mental Health knowledge preferred
Knowledge of code of ethics (NASW, ACA, NAEYC) preferred

Responsibilities

Provide consultation, coaching, and technical assistance to early education and childcare providers focused on positive behavior supports and expulsion prevention
Collaborate with educators, childcare staff, and families to promote children’s social-emotional development and emotional wellness
Support children’s emotional regulation, coping skills, adaptive functioning, and social competence through early intervention strategies
Build caregiver and provider capacity using a strengths-based, relationship-centered approach
Deliver training and resources to enhance understanding of child development, behavior, and trauma-informed practices
Partner with families to support consistent strategies across home and childcare environments
Ensure services are delivered in alignment with the agency’s mission and values, emphasizing emotional wellness for young children in DES-contracted childcare programs