Child Development Specialist

Pay Grade/Pay Range: Minimum: $40,200 - Midpoint: $50,300 (Salaried E5)

Department/Organization: 212701 - Special Ed and Multiple Abilities

Normal Work Schedule: Monday - Friday 8:00am to 4:45pm

Job Summary: The Child Development Specialist manages the development and implementation of all Child Development training, therapy, and/or technical assistance for child care providers, parents, and/or children. Manages a caseload of infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families. Provides developmental therapy in diverse home and community settings. Serves as direct point of contact for families and provides information and resources.

Additional Department Summary: The Evidence-based International Early Intervention Office (EIEIO) within the Department of Special Education and Multiple Abilities is an early intervention program through Alabama’s Early Intervention System and model demonstration program for the Routines-Based Model.
Manages a caseload of infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families and providing developmental therapy in diverse home and community settings. Serves as direct point of contact for families and provides information and resources. Assesses child and family needs using multiple approaches and measures. Conducts evaluations using specific evaluation protocols to determine developmental level and eligibility for services. Processes referrals in a timely manner. Maintains and organizes records and documentation in compliance with Part C and Medicaid requirements. Creates database for community resources. Enters data into state’s data system in a timely manner. Facilitates and participates in development, review, and evaluation of individualized family service plans. Facilitates required transitions.
Researches and maintains database of developmentally appropriate, evidence-based interventions. Develops and delivers appropriate interventions using a caregiver-implemented approach and family consultation. Trains and supports caregivers on their use of evidence-based strategies. Collects data to monitor child and family progress. Implements the Routines-Based Model to fidelity. Participates in regular fidelity checks, coaching, and supervision.
Leads joint visits with families and other therapists. Coordinates consultation services from other specialists to ensure timely delivery of services. Coordinates sharing of information with medical and health professionals. Assists with mentorship and training of new team members. Trains and evaluates others in implementation of Routines-Based Model. Completes all training and certification requirements for Alabama’s Early Intervention System. Actively participates in district and state committees with Alabama’s Early Intervention System.

Skills and Knowledge: Knowledge of Child Development. Strong organization skills. Ability to work independently. Ability to collaborate effectively with others. Ability to work with diverse families. Ability to train others on evidence-based practices. Excellent communication skills. Research skills to determine appropriate interventions. Computer proficiency. Knowledge of the Routines-Based Model.

Preferred Qualifications: Master’s degree in Child Development, early childhood special education, early childhood education, special education, human development and family studies, communicative disorders, speech-language pathology, physical therapy, occupational therapy, social work, psychology, counseling, or a related field.

Background Investigation Statement: Prior to hiring, the final candidate(s) must successfully pass a pre-employment background investigation and information obtained from social media and other internet sources. A prior conviction reported as a result of the background investigation DOES NOT automatically disqualify a candidate from consideration for this position. A candidate with a prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags will receive an individualized review of the prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags before a hiring decision is made.

Equal Employment Opportunity: The University of Alabama is an Equal Employment/Equal Educational Opportunity Institution. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment or volunteer status without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, age, genetic or family medical history information, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected basis, and will not be discriminated against because of their protected status. Applicants and employees of this institution are protected under Federal law from discrimination on several bases.