Essex Junction Recreation & Parks is seeking a Licensed Childcare Support and Inclusion Specialist to lead and strengthen behavior support systems across our licensed childcare programs, including afterschool, vacation, summer camp, and preschool settings.

Our childcare programs provide a safe, fun, and supportive environment where children can grow socially, emotionally, physically, and intellectually. This role is key to ensuring all children—including those with diverse needs—have access to positive, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate experiences.

About the Role

This position serves as the in-house expert on child behavior and well-being, working collaboratively with staff, families, and school partners to support children’s success across all EJRP programs. You will develop systems, coach staff, and provide direct intervention to help create positive, responsive environments for every child.

Pay/Wages
The pay rate is between $56,083 to $70,096 based on experience.

Benefits(this is not a comprehensive list of benefits)

• 3 weeks paid vacation to start.
• 14 paid holidays
• 18 sick days per year
• Retirement benefits include a pension plan (VMERS C) or deferred compensation plan (VMERS DC) , and the ability to contribute to a 457, Traditional IRA or ROTH
• Generous health insurance benefit in which the City pays 94% of the premium for medical and the first 80% of the deductible. After that, you are only responsible for the next 20%, which is not more than $600 for single plans and no more than $1200 for all other plans for covered medical expenses.
• 100% employer paid for dental and vision
• 100% employer paid short-term disability and life insurance
• Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program

Key ResponsibilitiesBehavior Leadership & Program Support

• Serve as the lead resource on behavior management and social-emotional well-being
• Develop and implement behavior support systems, tools, and best practices
• Coach and train staff on positive behavior strategies and de-escalation techniques
• Evaluate children who need additional support and create individualized behavior plans
• Support documentation and communication with families and school partners

Program Collaboration (Afterschool, Camps, Preschool)

• Build strong, supportive relationships with children, families, staff, and school teams
• Review IEPs, 504s, and other plans and adapt them for program settings
• Develop and implement individualized and group behavior support strategies
• Provide on-site and on-call support during program hours, including crisis response
• Conduct site visits to ensure consistency in behavior support across all programs
• Partner with school staff and attend meetings as needed
• Communicate regularly with families and support access to additional resources

Training & Staff Development

• Facilitate trainings focused on positive discipline and behavior management
• Support staff development through coaching, feedback, and professional learning
• Recruit, supervise, and evaluate behavior support staff

Grants, Administration & Community Engagement

• Support grant writing and management for behavior-related funding (including accommodations grants)
• Assist with budgeting and program data reporting
• Maintain records and systems related to behavior support
• Participate in community events and professional development opportunities

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Counseling, Psychology, Social Work, or a related field
• At least 5 years of experience in youth programming or a related field
• Strong knowledge of child development, behavior interventions, and social-emotional supports

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree
• Vermont teaching license
• Experience in afterschool or summer camp settings

Additional Requirements

• First Aid/CPR certification and crisis intervention training (or ability to obtain)
• Eligible for Northern Lights Instructor certification
• Valid Vermont driver’s license and reliable transportation

Why Join EJRP?

• Make a meaningful impact in your community
• Collaborate with a supportive, mission-driven team
• Help build inclusive programs that serve all children and families
• Opportunities for professional growth and development

If you’re passionate about supporting youth, building strong teams, and creating inclusive environments, we encourage you to apply!

The City of Essex Junction is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal or state law. The City is committed to administering all employment practices in accordance with these laws.