Child Care Staff

The Learning Lamp has been lighting the way to a brighter future for nearly 20 years in our region, providing high-quality tutoring, child care, and educational support to minimize disparities for children and families. Our Penn Highlands Hospital Child Care Center in Connellsville, PA, is seeking full-time staff members to join our team.

About the role

Our centers are open Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Full-time staff work an 8-hour shift within these hours. We offer a collaborative, supportive environment focused on professional growth and career advancement.

Responsibilities

• Supervision and Safety
  • Ensure the safety and well-being of children at all times.
  • Supervise indoor and outdoor activities, maintaining a secure environment.
• Daily Care Activities
  • Assist with feeding, diapering, toileting, and other basic care routines.
  • Foster independence in children by encouraging self-help skills appropriate to their age.
• Curriculum Implementation
  • Follow the daily schedule and implement age-appropriate activities.
  • Plan and conduct engaging and educational games, arts and crafts, and other developmental activities.
• Communication
  • Maintain open communication with parents, providing updates on their child's daily activities and progress.
  • Collaborate with colleagues to share insights and ensure consistent care.
• Behavior Management
  • Foster positive behavior through positive reinforcement techniques.
  • Address challenging behaviors with patience and effective communication.
• Health and Hygiene
  • Monitor and maintain cleanliness and hygiene standards in the facility.
  • Administer basic first aid when necessary and follow health and safety protocols.
• Record-Keeping
  • Keep accurate records of daily activities, incidents, and observations.
  • Document developmental milestones and any concerns for individual children.
• Parental Involvement
  • Encourage parental involvement through open communication and participation in special events or activities.
• Professional Development
  • Participate in training sessions and workshops to stay updated on best practices in child care.
  • Pursue relevant certifications and credentials.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent; Early Childhood Education certification is a plus.
• Previous experience with children (e.g., volunteering, teaching, or caregiving).
• Willingness to complete and pass required clearances and training, including mandated reporter training, a physical, and a TB test (typically completed within a week).
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds on a regular basis.
• Capacity for sitting, standing, walking, bending, and stooping for long periods during an eight-hour day.
• Knowledge of child development and age-appropriate activities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• CPR and first aid certification.
• Patience, creativity, and a genuine love for working with children.

Benefits

• Paid Time Off (up to 18 days after 6 months of employment).
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Life, long-term disability, and short-term disability insurance.
• Retirement savings plan (403(b)).
• 529 Savings Plan.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Pet insurance.
• Training and development opportunities, including access to a professional development platform.
• Career advancement opportunities through apprenticeship programs for leadership, administration, and operations roles.
• Paid holidays: New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.
• Substantial childcare discounts for most employees:
  • Infant/Toddler: $12 per day or less if eligible for Child Care Works (CCW).
  • Preschool – School Age: $9 per day.
  • 50% off before and after care.
  • 50% off tutoring services.

Pay

Pay ranges from $14 per hour based on experience.

Schedule

Full-time, 8-hour shifts within the center's operating hours of 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday.