Specialist - Family Services

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. Our services improve lives and help families by supporting young children and their caregivers during this important time.

Why candidates love working here

• Contribute to meaningful work that helps children and families build strong foundations for the future.
• Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, generous paid time off, and 401(k) employer contribution every paycheck.
• Build your future with access to learning, development, and career advancement opportunities.
• Be part of a collaborative, purpose-driven culture where your work truly matters.
• Join a Great Place to Work® Certified organization, with a culture shaped by employee feedback and built on trust, support, and collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Maintains accurate child and family records and documentation to support the delivery of family support, health, nutrition, mental health, and parent engagement services.
• Partners with families to assess needs, develop goals, connect them with community resources, and provide ongoing support to strengthen family well-being and self-sufficiency.
• Facilitates referrals and follow-up services to ensure children and families receive timely and appropriate support.
• Supports parent leadership and engagement through participation in Parent Center Committee meetings and related program governance activities.
• Promotes full enrollment and strong attendance by engaging families and addressing barriers to participation.
• Coordinates with families, health providers, and program staff to ensure children receive required health, nutrition, and developmental services, including follow-up care when needed.
• Collaborates with an integrated service team to monitor family progress, identify needs, and provide comprehensive support services.
• Ensures services are delivered in compliance with Head Start Performance Standards, program requirements, and established timelines.
• Builds and maintains positive, professional relationships with children, families, staff, community partners, and stakeholders.
• Represents the program through participation in school, community, agency, and professional collaboration activities that support children and families.
• Actively engages in regular reflective supervision and seeks guidance and feedback to support professional growth and effective service delivery.

Requirements

• AA / BA in Early Childhood Education, Family Studies, or related field is required.
• A minimum of one (1) year experience working with young children and families is required.
• Equivalent combination of education and experience may be accepted with a qualifying Family Services Credential.
• Bilingual preferred - ability to speak, write, and read Spanish.
• Knowledge of Developmentally Appropriate Practice (DAP) and Bilingual Education.
• Certification in First Aid/CPR, Food Handler’s Card, and Fingerprint Clearance Card required.
• Functional knowledge of AZ Child Care Licensing Requirements.
• Knowledge of Department of Child Safety reporting mandates.
• Possess an insured and registered 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.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Generous paid time off.
• 401(k) with employer contribution every paycheck.
• Access to learning, development, and career advancement opportunities.