Reports to: Health Services Manager Department: Early Childhood Services
Classification: Full-time Status: Non-exempt
POSITION SUMMARY
The Health Services Assistant supports the Health Services Manager in the daily operations, policy development, training, and overall administration of child and staff health services within the Head Start program. This role plays a vital part in ensuring regulatory compliance, promoting wellness, and building strong community partnerships. The position also works collaboratively with other service components including Education, Disabilities, Family Services, and Mental Health to achieve integrated, high-quality outcomes for children and families.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- Promote excellence in daily health programming to ensure the delivery of high-quality services and a supportive learning environment for children and staff.
- Assist in the implementation of strategies to meet or exceed State Licensing regulations, Head Start Performance Standards, and agency goals, including those of the Prevention Program.
- Support the provision of community health information and referrals for staff and families.
- Respond to child health-related inquiries from staff via phone, email, or written correspondence.
- Assist in the creation and dissemination of health-related materials (print and digital) for children, staff, and families covering topics such as fitness, safety, nutrition, and preventive care.
- Support data entry and maintenance for health records, including Medical and Dental Homes, follow-ups, and Child Health Appraisals.
- Monitor and manage the collection and accuracy of Child Health Appraisal forms submitted by physicians.
- Evaluate and ensure accuracy of each child's Certificate of Immunization Status (CIS); ensure proper data entry and compliance with immunization requirements.
- Prepare and submit the annual Primary Immunization Review; provide related training and support to staff.
- Coordinates with the Health Consultant and community partners to maintain centralized health documentation, including dental and health appraisal forms.
- Assist with data collection for health-related grants and research initiatives.
- Support planning and tracking of staff CPR/First Aid training and certification requirements.
- Apply Positive Behavior Support (PBS) and Conscious Discipline strategies to foster a safe, respectful environment.
- Coordinate with staff, parents, family advocates, and external service providers to support children's health and wellness needs.
- Cultivate and maintain positive relationships with families, staff, and community health partners.
- Participate in Early Childhood Services Team meetings and agency-wide planning efforts.
- Track data related to services for children with special needs or mental health needs.
- Ensure timely and accurate monthly quality assurance reviews related to health services and individual care plans.
- Maintain compliance with all relevant Head Start Performance Standards, state licensing regulations, and best practices.
- Assist with annual Self-Assessment and continuous improvement processes.
- Promote and respect diversity in cultural backgrounds and family structures.
- Exhibit professional work habits, including punctuality and adherence to work schedules.
- Attend the required in-service training and staff meetings.
- Report suspected child abuse or neglect per agency protocols.
- Travel within the agency service area, with occasional out-of-area travel for training.
- Work flexible and unconventional hours as needed.
- Represent and advocate for Head Start in the community.
- Maintain strict confidentiality in all matters concerning families and staff.
- Promote and uphold the values and mission of SEK-CAP in all work activities.
- Support and align with management decisions through both actions and communication.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
Essential:
- Proficiency with basic computer systems and office software (PC-based).
- Functional use of general office equipment (copiers, fax machines, phone systems).
- Strong interpersonal skills; tactful, respectful, and adaptable.
- Effective oral and written communication skills.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
- Strong organizational and time-management abilities.
- Capacity to establish and maintain effective professional relationships.
Preferred:
- Familiarity with Head Start Performance Standards and state licensing requirements.
- Knowledge of local health and human service resources.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
- Associate degree in Medical Records Administration or relevant experience in Kansas immunization laws applicable to Head Start.
- Minimum 2 years of experience in data entry and medical records administration.
- Strong background in record keeping, communication, and database management (school health services experience preferred).
- Experience in federally qualified health centers or dental organizations a plus.
- Demonstrated oral, written, and computer communication proficiency.
- Working knowledge of community resources related to child and family health care.
- Education or experience in child development, health, nutrition, safety, and first aid is desirable.
- Successful completion of physical exam and TB skin test prior to employment and every three years thereafter.
- Current First Aid and CPR certification (or ability to obtain).
- Valid driver's license and ability to meet agency insurance requirements.
- Ability to pass standard background check and drug screening.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT
- Frequent use of hands and arms for typing, filing, and handling materials.
- Regular sitting, with occasional standing, walking, stooping, kneeling, or crouching.
- Ability to lift and move up to 10 pounds.
- Visual requirements include close, distance, peripheral, and depth perception.
- Occasional exposure to outdoor weather (hot, cold, humid) and variable indoor environments.
- Noise level ranges from quiet to moderate.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $14.42 - $15.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
Work Location: In person