Child Development Specialist

DescriptionThe College’s Child Development Lab (CDL) is seeking a full-time Child Development Specialist to join our nationally accredited program. The CDL provides care and education for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years while also serving as a laboratory school that supports college students pursuing careers in early childhood education.As a Child Development Specialist, you will work as part of a co-teaching team in a mixed-age infant/toddler or preschool classroom. This is a year-round position that offers the opportunity to make a lasting impact on children’s development and help prepare the next generation of early childhood professionals.General Responsibilities Include, But Are Not Limited ToAssess and document children's development to inform curricular decisions aligned with NAEYC accreditation standards and the Illinois Early Learning Standards. Create and maintain a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment in both indoors and outdoors classroom spacesConduct annual screenings, communicate results, and collaborate with families and service providers to support individual needs of childrenMaintain daily communication to inform families of routines, upcoming events, and family involvement opportunitiesMentor and train college students completing field experiences in the laboratory schoolCollaborate with co-teachers and staff to ensure high-quality programming and accreditation complianceRequirementsAssociate degree in child development, early childhood education, or a related field (submission of transcript copy required)Eligibility for Gateways ECE Credential Level 4 (or commitment to a professional development plan to achieve the ECE Credential Level 4 within 12 months of employment at CDL)Desired QualificationsBachelor’s degree in child development, early childhood education, or related fieldEligibility for Gateways ECE credential Level 52 or more years’ early childhood classroom experienceExperience working with Project Approach Direct experience developing and implementing curriculum for young children Experience supervising student or volunteer assistantsDemonstrated experience in family involvement activitiesAbility to lift and move up to 50 lbs.Applications received by May 5, 2026 will receive priority consideration, with review of applications continuing as needed. Please include a transcript copy with your application submission.*** THIS POSITION IS BASED IN CENTRAL ILLINOIS AND ABILITY TO BE PRESENT ON-CAMPUS/IN-PERSON IS REQUIRED.Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa at this time. Heartland Community College is an equal opportunity institution.HCC values equity, diversity and inclusion. We create a collegial and welcoming culture by taking collective responsibility in the creation, protection, and enhancement of an equitable, diverse, and inclusive campus community.