Are you passionate about nurturing young minds and making a positive impact in early childhood education? We are seeking a dedicated Child Development Trainee to join our dynamic team and support the growth and development of young children. In this role, you will gain hands-on experience in creating engaging educational activities, observing developmental milestones, and implementing supportive strategies under the guidance of experienced professionals. If you are eager to contribute to a supportive learning environment and grow your skills in child development, we invite you to apply and be part of a team committed to shaping the future of our next generation.

Pay & Benefits:

• Compensation: $20 hourly wage
• Additional Pay: Shift Differential, Annual Increases, Paid Time Off
• Benefits: medical, vision, dental, 401k with employer match
• Education Benefits: FHP Tuition Assistance, Student Loan Forgiveness
• Other Benefits: Onsite Gym, Wellness Programs, Discount programs, The Learning Center (childcare services)
• Schedule:
  Full-time, 40 hours per week, 5x8 hour day shifts

The goal of the Child Development Trainee program is to prepare staff for a future career as a Child Development Assistant. The program requires a 1-year commitment.

While in this program, trainee will work with Child Development Teachers and Assistants in a classroom setting with children in the same age group who are at similar developmental levels. Teaching staff and trainee will engage in the pursuit of personal and department-wide continuous quality improvement for The Learning Center. Trainee will be required to earn their Child Development Associate credential in the first six (6) months of the job. Foundation Health will cover the costs of earning the CDA (Child Development Associate) through Thread. Tuition and fees for the participants will be covered by Foundation Health Partners in return for a 1-year commitment to full-time employment. If commitment is not fulfilled the participant will be required to repay the cost of tuition and fees to Foundation Health Partners.

1. Assists Child Development Assistant or Teacher with planning and implementing the chosen curriculum. Understands child directed learning and play based practice. Classroom planning is based on objective observation and is responsive to the needs of the enrolled children. Rotation and implementation of classroom environments will be required. Classroom environments will reflect a Reggio Emilia approach as well as research based best practice. 

2. Will learn to create daily lesson plans will meet all developmental domains supporting the whole child and helping children learn to live, play, and work cooperatively. Will be required to maintain classroom cleaning and upkeep as needed. 

3. Will learn how to provide care and learning in a setting that is safe, healthy, nurturing, and responsive to each child according to State of Alaska licensing standards. Will be required to promote teamwork with families and co-workers through reflective practice. 

4. Will develop knowledge that families and culture are of primary importance in children’s development. Acknowledge a primary responsibility to bring about communication, cooperation and collaboration between the home and program in ways that enhance the child’s development. 

5. Continuous quality improvement will be prioritized through participation in quality initiatives and other learning opportunities. 

6. Will be required to meet State of Alaska Child Care Licensing, and mandatory TLC (The Learning Center) requirements for continuing education and training.

Performs all functions according to State of Alaska licensing standards.

NOTE: The essential functions are intended to describe the general content of and requirements of this position and are not intended to be an exhaustive statement of duties. Specific tasks or responsibilities will be documented as outlined by the incumbent’s immediate manager.

High School Diploma. Must be at least 18 years of age. Must be able to communicate effectively in both oral and written formats.

Must be able to work independently as well as in a team environment. Must be able to accommodate scheduling adjustments, off-shifts, holiday, and weekend work assignments.

Must possess the intent to become a Child Dev Assist or Child Dev Teacher, as well a desire to grow their career within the organization. Requires a 1-year commitment to Foundation Health Partners after earning Child Development Associate credential.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Current enrollment in a Childhood Development Program.

Experience with child development and learning of children birth through kindergarten; family and community relationships; observing, documenting, and assessing young children; teaching and learning; and professional practices or development.