This is a description of a Staff Position Classification. It is not an announcement of a position opening. To view descriptions of current openings, please go to UNMJobs and Search Postings to view positions that are currently accepting applications.
The following statements are intended to describe, in broad terms, the general functions and responsibility levels characteristic of positions assigned to this classification. They should not be viewed as an exhaustive list of the specific duties and prerequisites applicable to individual positions that have been so classified.
Summary
Provides a stimulating, safe, and developmentally appropriate educational environment where preschool children have the opportunity to develop cognitive, social, emotional, and physical skills. Develops and implements daily lesson plans for early childhood classrooms. Leads and supervises preschool teachers in curriculum, classroom environment, and parent relationships.
Duties and Responsibilities
Organizes and provides developmentally appropriate early childhood education programs; plans and implements curriculum and education for children ranging in age from six weeks to twelve years old.
Supervises and observes teachers in classroom or other teaching settings to assess relevant skills, and recommends methods and strategies appropriate to the achievement of project goals.
Provides activities and opportunities that encourage curiosity, exploration, and problem solving appropriate to the developmental levels and learning styles of children.
Plans and prepares classroom setting; oversees safety and educational programs; supervises children in the classroom; provides a supportive environment in which children can learn and practice appropriate and acceptable individual and group behaviors.
Mentors lower-graded teachers and student employees; models expert teaching practices, and provides feedback for improving teaching and enhancing parent and student relationships.
Interacts with parents and community groups; maintains open and cooperative communication with parents and families, encouraging their involvement in the program and supporting the child's family relationships.
Writes and compiles individual assessments of each child's development; completes daily inventories, child attendance, and related reports.
Leads and functionally supervises assigned staff and students, to include work allocation, training, and problem resolution; provides performance management feedback as appropriate.
Participates in research programs concerned with improvements in early childhood teaching methods, as appropriate.
Develops and maintains systems for recording observations, organizing materials for teacher support, and assessing teacher progress.
Participates in the development and presentation of in-service educational programs pertaining to the Center; provides feedback and focused educational programs as appropriate.
Involvement with daily classroom scheduling and other administrative duties as assigned.
Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.
Minimum Job Requirements
Bachelor's degree; at least 3 years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.
Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required
Ability to evaluate, design, and implement curriculum, testing, and/or teaching methodologies.
Ability to use independent judgment and to manage and impart confidential information.
Ability to persuade and influence others.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.
Records maintenance skills.
Knowledge of applicable safety procedures.
Knowledge of child development theory and practice.
Ability to develop and present educational programs and/or workshops.
Ability to provide activities for children that encourage healthy growth.
Ability to provide a supportive and caring environment for children.
Ability to design and present informational programs and presentations, based on assessed needs.
Knowledge of early childhood education programs and techniques.
Ability to exercise control and maintain classroom discipline.
Ability to provide technical staff development and performance feedback.
Coaching and mentorship skills.
Ability to evaluate, design, and implement curriculum, assessment systems, and teaching methodologies appropriate to children 6 weeks through twelve years old.
Ability to fluently read, write, speak and understand English; prefer ability to read and understand Spanish.
Ability to self-motivate.
Ability to multitask and function effectively in a fast paced environment.
Ability to develop and maintain professional relationships and set appropriate boundaries.
Conditions of Employment
Successful candidate must submit to post-offer, pre-employment physical examination and medical history check.
Successful candidate must pass a comprehensive post-offer, pre-employment criminal and CYFD fingerprinting background check.
Employees who provide services or work in patient care or clinical areas are required to be in compliance with the University's influenza vaccination requirement.
If located at the UNM Children's Campus, successful candidate must pass a comprehensive post-offer, pre-employment criminal and New Mexico Children, Youth and Families Department (CYFD) fingerprint background check, and a continued successful status will be verified by periodic future background checks.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
Considerable physical activity. Requires heavy physical work; heavy lifting, pushing, or pulling required of objects up to 50 pounds. Physical work is a primary part (more than 70%) of job.
No or very limited exposure to physical risk.
Work may involve moderate exposure to unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises.
The University of New Mexico provides all training required by OSHA to ensure employee safety.
