Health Services Assistant

About the Role

The Health Services Assistant is responsible for maintaining up-to-date records for each child while performing service tasks related to health and nutrition needs. This position promotes the mission of ABCD Head Start & Children’s Services by communicating it to staff, families, and the community. Compliance with federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and standards is required, including those from ACF, EEC, IDEA, DESE, and ABCD policies. All personnel are mandated reporters of suspected child abuse or neglect under Massachusetts law.

Responsibilities

• Case Management (Up to 40%)
  • Document results of screenings and assessments for Health and Nutrition Services Managers and parents.
  • Work with families to obtain health and nutrition consent forms for children in the assigned caseload.
  • Coordinate and share accurate information with Health and Nutrition Services Managers and the Program Director.
  • Ensure children and families without medical coverage receive necessary services.
  • Monitor, inventory, and restock first aid supplies for classrooms.
  • Collaborate with staff and the broader health community to assist with referrals and follow-up on health and nutrition services.
• Information and Technical Systems (Up to 50%)
  • Maintain physical and digital files for children’s health and nutrition data, including consent forms, physical exams, oral health, vaccinations, and lab results.
  • Maintain statistical data as required by ABCD Head Start administration and in compliance with federal and state regulations.
  • Document ongoing contact with local programs through case notes, emails, and site visits.
  • Monitor and track follow-up needs and concerns for all assigned programs.
• Additional Responsibilities (Up to 10%)
  • Assist with administrative tasks as needed.
  • Attend and participate in required community activities, meetings, and trainings, some of which may occur during evening hours.
  • Engage in ongoing professional development to expand skills.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Minimum of one year of relevant experience and a high school diploma or equivalent required; certificate or college coursework in a related field preferred.
• Knowledge of and sensitivity to the educational and socioeconomic needs of children and families served.
• Ability to handle sensitive family situations professionally and non-threateningly.
• Familiarity with neighborhoods served by the program and city-wide services relevant to the population.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Experience working as part of an interdisciplinary team.
• Computer literacy, including proficiency with databases, word processing, email, and internet applications.
• Proven ability to maintain accurate records and documentation.
• Bilingual ability preferred; translation skills as needed.
• Ability to stay updated on federal, state, city, and program laws, regulations, standards, and policies.

Physical and Environmental Demands

• Frequent local travel for program needs and off-site trainings.
• Regular kneeling, bending, and sitting on the floor to attend to children’s needs.
• Ability to lift and move infants to preschool-age children.
• Lift items based on program administration needs.
• Work independently with minimal supervision.
• Strong time management and ability to balance and prioritize workload.

Professionalism

• Engage in ongoing staff development to expand professional skills.
• Maintain professional boundaries in relationships with staff and families.
• Strictly maintain confidentiality of child and family information.

Pay

Expected salary: $41,113.80 annually ($22.59/hour). Salary is set according to an explicit compensation policy and relevant market data, with firm offers aligned to role expectations.

Benefits

• Direct impact on the lives of thousands in the Greater Boston community.
• Inclusive and collaborative work environment that values diversity.
• Numerous training and development opportunities.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health coverage and retirement plans.
• Legacy of over 50 years of community impact and advocacy.
• Passionate team united in combating poverty and empowering individuals.