January 9, 2018 Careers Trying Together’s mission is to support high-quality care and education for young children. Trying Together is a Pittsburgh-based nonprofit that supports the work of early childhood by providing advocacy, community resources, and professional growth opportunities for the needs and rights of children, their families, and the adults who interact with them. A fast-paced organization, Trying Together looks for dedicated and passionate staff who bring positivity to their work and a solution-oriented sensibility. Current Openings Assistant Director of Development Communications Manager Early Childhood Education (ECE) Career Advisor Strategist Early Head Start Coach ELRC Early Learning Program Engagement Specialist Family Development Specialist PN-3 Early Childhood Policy Manager Professional Learning Coordinator Workforce Development Strategist Trying Together is an equal opportunity employer. Trying Together does not discriminate and encourages qualified candidates of any gender, race, class, sexual orientation, faith, disability, or age to apply. All candidates will be evaluated on a merit basis. Assistant Director of Development The Assistant Director of Development will be responsible for implementing specific plans and strategies to build relationships with and solicit support from individual, major, planned, and corporate donors. They will research and identify potential donors, develop strategies to solicit support, and provide ongoing stewardship aimed at retention. Responsibilities will include, but are not be limited to, developing a corporate benefits package, soliciting corporate support including sponsorship/underwriting and EITC, and relationship building with individual major and planned giving prospects and donors, including monthly/recurring donors. The Assistant Director will utilize NeonCRM to track and plan relationship-building strategy steps with donors and funders. With the support of the Grants Manager, they will monitor, track, and report fundraising results. This position reports directly to the Director of Community Relations. Responsibilities: With the Director of Community Relations, prepare and manage an annual plan for private philanthropy at Trying Together, with specific strategies to meet the financial goals identified in the annual budgeting process and strategic plan. As part of the annual plan, manage a portfolio of major gift donors and prospects, both individuals and corporations. Enter reports of all contacts and gifts in the NeonCRM donor database in a timely fashion. Work with board and staff to identify potential individual and corporate major gift prospects. Develop and implement strategies to identify and acquire new individual donors at all gift levels. Conduct monthly major gift portfolio review and strategic planning meetings, schedule meetings, prepare agendas, and ensure necessary data is available for discussion. Support Executive Director and Director of Community Relations with the management of their portfolios. Develop specific strategies for solicitation and stewardship of corporate support for Trying Together, including sponsorship opportunities and EITC. Develop and execute strategies to secure corporate sponsorship, work with the Director of Community Relations and other leadership staff to identify sponsorship opportunities, identify potential sponsors and develop sponsorship benefits. Manage the solicitation and acknowledgment process. Identify prospects for EITC gifts and develop and manage the solicitation and acknowledgment process. Work with leadership staff to maintain and prioritize a list of fundable projects that will enable solicitation of major gifts from individuals and corporations “with purpose.” Work with the Assistant Director of Communications in developing and implementing various forms of solicitation for entry– and mid-level gifts as well as recurring/monthly gifts including mail, email, social media, and events. Oversee progress, timelines, and goals (as related to the annual fundraising plan) for each solicitation strategy and overall giving. Work closely with the Assistant Director of Communications to develop and implement a communications/marketing plan focused on donor acquisition, solicitation, cultivation, and stewardship, including donor recognition opportunities. Specific focus on communications strategies aimed at converting child care professionals/clients to donors. Plan and manage events for donor cultivation and stewardship, including community awareness-building events organized and implemented by the Development Committee/Board of Directors. Develop surveys to gather feedback related to fundraising from donors, prospective donors, and clients/child care professionals, and manage data gathering and analysis with support from the Grants Manager. Work with the Grants Manager to ensure accuracy and effectiveness of all data related to donors, prospective donors, funders, gifts, contacts, and relationship building. Related duties as assigned. Consistently use the NeonCRM platform to build relationships with constituents, and record data that measure project performance and support continuous quality improvement in the organization’s resources and services. Commitment to racial equity and inclusion and a willingness to do the ongoing personal work to bring about a more just society. Promote and support the vision, mission, and goals of Trying Together. To learn more, visit www.tryingtogether.org. Qualifications: Three to five years of fundraising/development experience with an understanding of donor identification, relationship-building, and solicitation of gifts from individuals and/or corporations. Bachelor’s degree in education/human development, social work, nonprofit administration, communications, or similar. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, experience with donor database systems; NeonCRM a plus. Excellent oral and written communication skills. Strong analytical, creative, strategic, organizational, and personal skills. Ability to prioritize and execute tasks in an efficient manner. Enthusiasm for professional growth and the ability to self-start. Commitment to teamwork and collaboration. Knowledge, interest, or experience in advocacy, community engagement, nonprofits, and/or the early care and education field is helpful. Ability to work nights and weekends as needed. Some overnight and statewide travel is required. Required Clearances: Clean Act 33 Child Abuse Clearance. Clean Act 34 PA State Police Clearance. Clean Act 73 Federal Criminal History Clearance. National Sex Offender Registry (NSOR) Verification. Valid Driver’s License and proof of insurance. Required Training: Mandated Reporter Training (must be completed in the first month of placement). NeonCRM Training (required and recommended online courses must be completed in the first three months of placement). PQAS Professional Development Instructor Certification (must be obtained within the first year of employment). Benefits: Competitive compensation and benefits package. Appreciative inquiry and strengths-based review process. Interested Applicants: Applicants must apply at tryingtogether.applytojob.com/apply and upload their resume and three work-related references. Phone calls will not be accepted. Posting will remain open until filled. Communications Manager The Communications Manager is responsible for drafting, editing, scheduling, and monitoring content engagement in support of communications and community relations activities for Trying Together’s advocacy, community resource, and professional growth opportunities which may include but are not limited to Buzzword Pittsburgh; Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC) Region 5; Everyday Interactions Matter; The Homewood Early Learning Hub & Family Center; Message from Me; Playful Pittsburgh Collaborative; and Start Strong PA. Trying Together’s communications and community relations activities include but are not limited to: community engagement activities and events; e-communications development and distribution; print collateral development; social media engagement; and website content management. The Communications Manager will work collaboratively with other Communication Managers and related support staff, receive day-to-day instruction from the Assistant Director of Communications, and will report to the Director of Community Relations. The Communications Manager works with the Community Relations team to meet branding, communications, engagement, and marketing needs aligned with Trying Together’s strategic goals. Responsibilities: Draft, edit, and schedule content for e-communications, print collateral, social media, and websites as assigned. Work with the Assistant Director of Communications to manage content development and graphic design needs submitted via the Marketing Request Form. Work with other departments to determine communications and marketing needs. Provide training as needed to other departments on utilizing new materials, templates, online features, and other communications work as needed. Develop and implement marketing campaigns across platforms, and measure and report out on success. Utilize Google Ads and Analytics, as well as the Trying Together Conversion Funnel Strategy, to identify opportunities to engage with our audience; implement strategies to increase reach for specific personas, and; measure outcomes. Maintain style guidelines across organizational brands and contracts. Related duties as assigned. Consistently use the NeonCRM platform to build relationships with constituents, record data that measure project performance, and support continuous quality improvement in the organization’s resources and services. Commitment to racial equity and inclusion and a willingness to do the ongoing personal work to bring about a more just society. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in communications; English; journalism; marketing; political science; or public relations and three to five years working experience within these fields. Current knowledge and working experience with digital platforms including but not limited to Adobe Creative Suite; BaseCamp; Google Ads, Analytics, and Suite; MailChimp Pro; Microsoft Office Suite; NeonCRM; Phone2Action; social media; SquareSpace; and WordPress. Understands and uses best practices for accessibility, information architecture, and writing for websites. Strong oral and written communications skills. Ability to prioritize and execute tasks in an efficient manner. Enthusiasm for professional growth and the ability to self-start. Knowledge, interest, or experience in advocacy, community engagement, nonprofits, and/or the early care and education field is helpful. Ability to work nights and weekends as needed. Some statewide travel is required. Required Clearances: Clean Act 33 Child Abuse Clearance. Clean Act 34 PA State Police Clearance. Clean Act 73 Federal Criminal History Clearance. National Sex Offender Registry (NSOR) Verification. Valid Driver’s License and proof of insurance. Required Training: Mandated Reporter Training (must be completed in the first month of placement). NeonCRM Training (required and recommended online courses must be completed in the first three months of placement). PQAS Professional Development Instructor Certification (must be obtained within the first year of employment). Benefits: Competitive compensation and benefits package. Appreciative inquiry and strengths-based review process. Interested Applicants: Applicants must apply at tryingtogether.applytojob.com/apply and upload their resume and three work-related references. Phone calls will not be accepted. Posting will remain open until filled. Early Childhood Education (ECE) Career Advisor Strategist An early childhood educator’s responsibility is to care for and promote the learning, development, and well-being of young children. The Early Childhood Education (ECE) Career Advisor Strategist is responsible for supporting educators in southwestern Pennsylvania at various stages of their career. The ECE Career Advisor Strategist will assist individuals with academic guidance and career supports, including job search skills and providing additional resources as needed. The ECE Career Advisor Strategist is a member of the Quality Initiatives Team, will report to the Associate Executive Director, and should be available to work evenings and weekends to support early childhood educators. Responsibilities: Guide the career advancement of early childhood educators (supported by the PA ECE Career Pathways framework) and support them from entry level to mastery to develop an individualized career advancement plan. Guide early childhood educators to enroll in a credentialing program that meets the educator’s individual career needs. Collaborate in the implementation, coordination, and delivery of career development services, including career exploration, teacher certification, test preparation, academic advising, and job searching. Explore and provide additional resources to educators such as technology, transportation, adult literacy, etc. as needed to achieve an educator’s career goals. Cultivate relationships with ECE departments at institutes of higher education to learn about ECE specific coursework and to guide educators to meet career goals. Meet individually and in small groups with current and aspiring early childhood professionals in support of developing and meeting their career goals. Make presentations to early learning program directors/owners and community groups about early childhood education career development periodically and as requested. Track and maintain data on interactions and outcomes. Create quarterly reports on the progress of the project. Provide dynamic and collaborative direction to the development and piloting of new initiatives as they become appropriate for inclusion in the project’s work. Work collaboratively with community organizations in southwestern Pennsylvania such as Partner4Work and CareerLink to support individual career development in early childhood education. Consistently use the NeonCRM platform to build relationships with constituents, record data that measures project performance, and to support continuous quality improvement in the organization’s resources and services. Commitment to racial equity and inclusion and a willingness to do the ongoing personal work to bring about a more just society. Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services, Child Development, Early Childhood, or related field and three years of related experience in Early Childhood Education career development. Have an academic background and experience teaching Early Childhood Education. Have extensive experience mentoring teachers and understand adult development. Value the collaborative, reflective, and reciprocal nature of consultation. Value diversity and demonstrate cultural and linguistic competency. Approach educator career development with a growth mindset and believe all educators can improve, whatever the starting point. Use reflective practice strategies and skills. Be extremely organized. Be flexible. Be a creative problem solver. Have a keen eye for detail and the ability to multitask. Be proficient in Microsoft Office suite. Possess excellent interpersonal and communication skills. Have experience working in urban communities. Current PQAS Instructor certification (will be required to obtain within six months of hire). Required Clearances: Clean Act 33 Child Abuse Clearance. Clean Act 34 PA State Police Clearance. Clean Act 73 Federal Criminal History Clearance. National Sex Offender Registry (NSOR) Verification. Required Training: Mandated Reporter Training (must be completed in the first month of placement). NeonCRM Training (required and recommended online courses must be completed in the first three months of placement). Benefits: Competitive compensation and benefits package. Appreciative inquiry and strengths-based review process. Interested Applicants: Applicants must apply at tryingtogether.applytojob.com/apply and upload their resume and three work-related references. Phone calls will not be accepted. Posting will remain open until filled. Early Head Start Coach Coaching is an interactive process of observation, discussion, and reflection in which the coach promotes the other person’s ability to grow toward identified goals. Effective coaches will build relationships with teachers based on mutual respect, demonstrate effective communication skills, practice conflict resolution and have an ongoing commitment to learning, possess good observation skills, and can model best practice working with children. The Program Level coach will have an understanding and ability to put into practice and advocate for the following guiding principles: Culturally and linguistically competent, family-centered practice. Natural learning environment. Learner-focused approach. Functional and meaningful activities/supports. Collaborative goal setting. Operate from a systems perspective. Change occurs over time. Coaches facilitate and participate in change. Responsibilities: Recognize the unique abilities of individuals and assist others in valuing everyone’s contributions. Encourage, support, motivate, and work interactively with teachers/caregivers to develop and implement ongoing goals. Support the teacher/caregiver to provide environments and opportunities which promote the child’s growth and development for any of the developmental domains (language and literacy, health and physical development, approaches to learning, social-emotional development, creative arts, science, mathematics). Assist teachers/caregivers to structure environments, routines, and interactions that contribute to positive social-emotional outcomes for the children and families in a program. Focus on specific tasks, skills, or techniques which can be mastered and measured. Assist teachers/caregivers to structure environments, routines, and interactions that contribute to a positive social behavior support plan for the child. Consistently use the NeonCRM platform to build relationships with constituents, record data that measures project performance, and support continuous quality improvement in the organization’s resources and services. Commitment to racial equity and inclusion and a willingness to do the ongoing personal work to bring about a more just society. Stay current on updates and changes in national accreditation systems. (NAEYC, NAFCC, NAA,). Become trained in the Environment Rating Scales (ITERS, ECERS, FCCERS). Complete training on Practice-Based Coaching. Become trained and proficient in the strategies of the Pyramid Model. Gather and track data in accordance with an identified evaluation plan. Participate in supervision and peer support as offered for individuals working in this capacity. Attend regularly scheduled meetings with other coaches, community partners, and professional development/technical assistance staff. Facilitate a process to help teachers develop individual plans to improve their environments, teaching practices to support young children’s growth and development, and overall program quality. Offer resources and strategies to teachers to enhance relationships, create appropriate environments, and teach social-emotional skills in children. Check in periodically with teachers to offer support and guidance. Contact community partners to access external support when needed. Assist the teacher to identify resources and supplies in accordance with individual plans. Willingness and ability to travel throughout the Pittsburgh region. Maintain confidentiality. Perform other duties as assigned. Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Family and Consumer Science, Psychology, Social Work, Sociology, or a related field. Knowledge of local, state, and national early care and education systems. Knowledge and education regarding developmentally appropriate practices. At least 2 years of experience working with young children in a group setting. PA Quality Assurance System (PQAS) certified instructor. Experience in conducting assessments. Knowledge of program quality rating scales. Knowledge of Head Start Program Performance Standards. Experience and/or education in adult learning principles. Experience and/or education in Human Service work and study. Excellent oral and written communication skills, competent interpersonal skills, and strong organizational skills. Ability to communicate using technology, develop reports and track data. Knowledge and expertise in promoting growth and development in children for any of the developmental domains (Language and Literacy, Health and Physical Development, Approaches to Learning, Social-Emotional Development, Creative Arts, Science, Mathematics). Ability to travel to appointments, meetings, and training sessions that may require an overnight stay. Intermediate to advanced computer skills, Internet, and email. Required Clearances: Clean Act 33 Child Abuse Clearance. Clean Act 34 PA State Police Clearance. Clean Act 73 Federal Criminal History Clearance. National Sex Offender Registry (NSOR) Verification. Valid Driver’s License and proof of insurance. Required Training: Mandated Reporter Training (must be completed in the first month of placement). NeonCRM Training (required and recommended online courses must be completed in the first three months of placement). Practice-Based Coaching (PBC). Physical Requirements: Regular kneeling, stooping, bending, and sitting on the floor. Benefits: Competitive compensation and benefits package. Appreciative inquiry and strengths-based review process. Interested Applicants: Applicants must apply at tryingtogether.applytojob.com/apply and upload their resume and three work-related references. Phone calls will not be accepted. Posting will remain open until filled. ELRC Early Learning Program Engagement Specialist The Allegheny County Early Learning Resource Center Early Learning Program Engagement Specialist serves as a representative between Child Care Works and child care providers both regulated and relative. The Early Learning Program Engagement Specialist will support providers with Provider Self Service, recruit, enroll and determine eligibility in Child Care Works, support providers to enroll in Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), and provide additional assistance as needed. The Early Learning Program Engagement Specialist will provide outreach to relative providers to identify needs and connect them to resources and supports. Responsibilities: Provide comprehensive customer service by completing thorough provider orientations, address all phone calls and provider correspondence within 24 business hours as applicable, and attend to walk-in clients/providers. Establish provider agreements for all certified and relative providers and assist providers with primary subsidy concerns and questions. Teach and support regulated providers to use Provider Self Service to ensure their information is up to date. Advise providers of the PA Department of Human Services and Child Care Works regulations. Provide technical assistance and support for relative providers seeking to become state certified and enroll in Child Care Works. Refer and engage child care providers to community resources and advocate for the providers in obtaining these services. Identify and assess barriers relative providers face with regards to providing quality child care and identify resources and supports as needed. Support relative providers to meet their Professional Development requirements. Collaborate with Allegheny County Family Centers to connect relative providers to community resources and supports as needed. Connect providers with a Quality Coach and Fiscal contact. Assist providers in enrolling in the Child and Adult Care Food Program and other provider resources. Operate as a liaison for the provider between all Child Care Works (CCW) departments and programs. Organize and participate in provider outreach to help promote quality child care and positive child and adult interactions. Address system-generated alerts in a timely manner to maintain integrity within the PELICAN System. Maintain communication with other Child Care Works agencies within Pennsylvania regarding provider information and updates. Regularly participates in outreach and other meetings both locally and statewide. Maintains a high level of confidentiality when working with sensitive and personal client, vendor, employee, and contract information. Participates in initial and ongoing professional development for the purpose of providing effective provider engagement. Promotes and supports the vision, mission, and goals of Trying Together. To learn more, visit www.tryingtogether.org. Consistently use the NeonCRM platform to build relationships with constituents, record data that measure project performance, and support continuous quality improvement in the organization’s resources and services. Commitment to racial equity and inclusion and a willingness to do the ongoing personal work to bring about a more just society. Additional Knowledge, Skills, and Experience Knowledge of local, state, and national systems for early care and education. Must be able to work independently and as a team member. Attention to detail and advanced problem-solving techniques. Ability to multitask. Acceptance of diversity and ability to work comfortably in a variety of settings. Ability to maintain confidentiality. Good judgment and decision-making abilities. Must demonstrate enthusiasm and flexibility. Working knowledge of Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel. Must clear full background check. Must have a valid PA Driver’s License and proof of insurance. Qualifications: Associates, Business or Technical Degree in Human Services, Early Childhood Education or related field. Two years of relevant experience. Experience working with adult learners. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Intermediate to advanced computer skills, Internet, and email. Required Clearances: Clean Act 33 Child Abuse Clearance. Clean Act 34 PA State Police Clearance. Clean Act 73 Federal Criminal History Clearance. National Sex Offender Registry (NSOR) Verification. Required Training: Mandated Reporter Training (must be completed in the first month of placement). NeonCRM Training (required and recommended online courses must be completed in the first three months of placement). Physical Requirements: Ability to lift and move 10 – 20 pounds Benefits: Competitive compensation and benefits package. Appreciative inquiry and strengths-based review process. Interested Applicants: Applicants must apply at tryingtogether.applytojob.com/apply and upload their resume and three work-related references. Phone calls will not be accepted. Posting will remain open until filled. Family Development Specialist Family Development Specialists are responsible for providing direct service to families from diverse backgrounds with young children birth to five years old (including prenatal and postpartum stages for an unborn child’s development and the mother’s health, nutrition, and psychological state). These prevention services help families set personal goals and address the challenges that come up in their day-to-day life. Direct services will include goal planning, developmental screenings, advocacy, and referrals linking families to any needed services. Family Development Specialists work out of The Homewood Early Learning Hub & Family Center and report to the Director of The Hub & Family Center. Responsibilities: Coaches and supports families with a strengths-based approach. Strong ability to build positive rapport with both parents and children. Provide crisis intervention and/or referrals for families. Develop and/or assist in the child programming and parent-child interaction groups. Initiates the Ages & Stages Questionnaires® (ASQ) and Ages & Stages Questionnaires®: Social-Emotional, Second Edition (ASQ®:SE-2) with parents and children using the appropriate developmental tools. Actively participate in ongoing outreach/recruitment for the program. Actively participate in the development of and facilitate parent groups. Actively participate in the development of special events and celebrations with/for families. Ability to maximize program offerings to families from The Homewood Early Learning Hub & Family Center. Must maintain a high level of integrity. Must maintain confidentiality of ALL families. Provides team approach model case management services including goal setting, networking, and use of community resources, advocacy, referral, and support. Develop mutual trust and cooperation with families to strengthen child and parent development. Responsible for approximately 20 families on their caseload. Transport families to programming, well baby visits, mental health sessions, etc. when possible. Communicate regularly and productively with colleagues within the Hub & Family Center and across the organization. Actively participate in weekly staff meetings. Must maintain files and complete all management information system paperwork accurately as required in a timely manner. Maintain the Hub & Family Center site and ensure a welcoming atmosphere. Relationships with or knowledge of the Homewood-Brushton community is helpful. Attend a minimum of 20 hours of job-related training Consistently use the NeonCRM platform to build relationships with constituents, record data that measure project performance, and support continuous quality improvement in the organization’s resources and services. Commitment to racial equity and inclusion and a willingness to do the ongoing personal work to bring about a more just society. Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Child Development, Early Childhood, or related field, or a high school diploma and five years of related experience in early childhood prevention, or human/social services working with children and families. Ability to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Ability to work both independently as well as part of a team. Ability to work nights and weekends. Must own a reliable vehicle (for transporting to/from home visits, etc.) Required Clearances: Clean Act 33 Child Abuse Clearance. Clean Act 34 PA State Police Clearance. Clean Act 73 Federal Criminal History Clearance. National Sex Offender Registry (NSOR) Verification. Valid Driver’s License and proof of insurance. Required Training: Mandated Reporter Training (must be completed in the first month of placement). NeonCRM Training (required and recommended online courses must be completed in the first three months of placement). PQAS Professional Development Instructor Certification (must be obtained within the first year of employment). Benefits: Competitive compensation and benefits package. Appreciative inquiry and strengths-based review process. Interested Applicants: Applicants must apply at tryingtogether.applytojob.com/apply and upload their resume and three work-related references. Phone calls will not be accepted. Posting will remain open until filled. PN-3 Early Childhood Policy Manager The PN-3 Early Childhood Policy Manager provides management support for developing the organizational capacity to ensure that all families with children 0-3 receive appropriate service identification and coordination focusing on families with the highest need and ensuring access to service providers that can best meet those needs. The position provides expertise on how policies impact children 0-3 and their families in the SWPA region and specifically in Allegheny County. This is an early career position with the opportunity to develop and deepen policy skills in early childhood and prenatal to three content. This is a full-time position that works within a strong team that will include occasional evening and weekend hours and some travel. PN-3 Local, Regional, and State Initiatives: Staffing the Pritzker PIG-Allegheny County, PA leadership team Supporting the development of a comprehensive Allegheny county-wide PN-3 plan Convening/fostering collaboration across program leadership teams and existing groups that focus on families of PN-3 Monitoring/tracking progress on Pritzker work plan activities Communicating successes and challenges of grant activities internally and externally as appropriate Communicating the Initiative’s goals/progress across county departments and identifying opportunities for coordination across all departments of county government Managing and coordinating the local research agenda on key opportunities and initiatives that focus on families of PN-3 Communicating and supporting implementation of best practices within sectors as identified Connecting with statewide advocates around the Commonwealth’s Early Learning Pennsylvania (ELPA) agenda and Pennsylvania’s Pritzker Policy Initiative Promoting the development and sharing of high quality data and evaluation of Initiative strategies. ELPA Campaign Support: Staff the Childhood Begins at Home Campaign for the Trying Together Policy Team. Represent Trying Together on ELPA committees to support broader PN-3 work. Contribute to internal policy message development as well as message development for advocacy campaigns in which Trying Together participates. Assist in the delivery and implementation of grant-supported advocacy activities in accordance with the mission and the goals of Trying Together. Work effectively and collaboratively with partnering advocacy organizations, elected officials, and community stakeholders. Document and record activities for reporting requirements and evaluation both internally and externally. Meticulously document and record program activities and outcomes, and contribute to reports and evaluations both internal and external to document program impact. Advancing Policy Agenda: Support the development and advancement of the Trying Together Public Policy Agenda. Activities may include contributing to the writing of a new agenda, strategy for promoting the agenda, implementation of activities such as white papers, resource guides, professional development, etc. Establish connections internally across departments and externally with local/regional organizations to advance policy agenda and advocacy work. Opportunities to co-develop reports, issue briefs, policy memos, white papers, and position statements on issues that fall under Trying Together’s policy agenda. Work may include serving as the co- author, as well as project management of stakeholders contributing to reports for larger campaigns. Maintain a working knowledge of significant developments and trends in the early childhood field at the national, state, and local levels including both early learning and health. Connect practice and professional learning opportunities through creation and support of professional training and workshops aligned to policy agenda. Identify ways to collaborate with the field to facilitate feedback loop for practice to impact policy. Strategize how to build on the creation of a legislative agenda and develop the ability to influence policy and legislation beyond advocacy for budget lines and increased investments. Commitment to racial equity and inclusion and a willingness to do the ongoing personal work to bring about a more just society. Promotes and supports the vision, mission, and goals of Trying Together. To learn more, visit www.tryingtogether.org. Consistently use the NeonCRM platform to build relationships with constituents, record data that measures project performance, and to support continuous quality improvement in the organization’s resources and services. Requirements (skills, abilities and knowledge): Solid record of accomplishing challenging goals in highly professional work environment(s) Proven ability to work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds and at different professional levels to accomplish mutual goals Track record of collaborating and contributing to the success of interdisciplinary teams Some experience with grants, including monitoring and reporting Demonstrated ability to work independently, meet deadlines, manage multiple responsibilities, and prioritize tasks Strong analytic, research, critical thinking and writing and presentation skills Comfortable and articulate when speaking in public Familiarity with PN-3 issues, financing and opportunities, or willingness to learn about these issues quickly Knowledge of local and state early education public policy preferred Qualifications: At least 3 years of professional experience overall. Knowledge of early childhood as a content area and the systems that support it. Strong relationship builder and communicator with experience leading diverse work teams and community partners. Working knowledge of Microsoft office and program management software (e.g. Basecamp, MS Project etc.) BS/BA degree in organizational management, public policy, education or a relevant field, MS/MA is a plus. Ability to think strategically to reach our goals. Excellent organizational and leadership skills. An analytical mindset with great problem-solving abilities. Excellent communication skills. Ability to travel as needed. Required Clearances: Clean Act 33 Child Abuse Clearance. Clean Act 34 PA State Police Clearance. Clean Act 73 Federal Criminal History Clearance. National Sex Offender Registry (NSOR) Verification. Valid Driver’s License and proof of insurance. Required Training: Mandated Reporter Training (must be completed in the first month of placement). NeonCRM Training (required and recommended online courses must be completed in the first three months of placement). Physical Requirements: Ability to lift 10-20 pounds. Benefits: Competitive compensation and benefits package. Appreciative inquiry and strengths-based review process. Interested Applicants: Applicants must apply at tryingtogether.applytojob.com/apply and upload their resume and three work-related references. Phone calls will not be accepted. Posting will remain open until filled. Professional Learning Coordinator Under the leadership of the Director of Quality Initiatives Projects, the Professional Learning Coordinator will work with the Trying Together Associate Executive Director, Quality Initiatives Professional Learning team, ELRC Quality Coaches, and Early Head Start Coaches in carrying out the mission of the organization. The Professional Learning Coordinator will be responsible for organizing and administering customized, contract, and grant-funded Trying Together professional learning opportunities and will work with the Quality Initiatives team to ensure that all professional learning opportunities work together effectively. This is a great opportunity for an individual early in their career who is looking to develop their knowledge of early childhood professional growth and instruction. Responsibilities: Work closely with the Quality Initiatives team to determine current and relevant professional development topics that meet ECE and School Age professionals’ needs. Conduct research and review literature on current and significant developments and trends in the early childhood field at the national, state and local levels to determine relevant PD topics. Schedule and coordinate all Trying Together professional learning opportunities for Early Learning Program Directors/Administrators and early learning educators. Serve as the PA PD Registry Administrator for Trying Together and submit all relevant PD module information into the PA PD Registry for approval. Work with the Communications team to ensure that all Trying Together sponsored PD is being promoted in the most effective manner. Implement policies and procedures that ensure an efficient process for all internal and external Professional Learning opportunities and requests. Create and monitor registration for all Trying Together Professional learning opportunities. Maintain and update a tracking spreadsheet of all Professional Development opportunities with appropriate reporting information if necessary. Ensure that all students enrolled in all Trying Together coursework receive proper Professional Development credit. Work with the Professional Learning team to ensure that Trying Together is accredited to provide applicable PD credits. (CEU, Act 48, PQAS, Organizational PQAS). Ensure that participants in all specialized PD receive appropriate credit (CDA, Induction, Unconference, Partner PD). Ensure that Trying Together Professional Development connects to projects and the work of the ELRC. Work effectively and collaboratively with community partner organizations. Participate in initial and ongoing professional development for the purpose of growing and developing new skills. Promote and support the vision, mission and goals of Trying Together. Commitment to racial equity and inclusion and a willingness to do the ongoing personal work to bring about a more just society. Consistently use the NeonCRM platform to build relationships with constituents, record data that measures project performance, and to support continuous quality improvement in the organization’s resources and services. Qualifications: Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Human Services or related field and two years related experience. Demonstrate ability to work with diverse populations. Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of the work. Demonstrate competency with Microsoft Excel, Word and Internet research. High level of organizational skills. Attention to detail. Ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks simultaneously and work within deadlines. Well-developed oral and written communication skills. Knowledge of the early childhood and school age field in general and NAEYC and PennAEYC specifically. A working knowledge of Keystone STARS and state and national support systems for early learning programs. Ability to maintain confidentiality and values the notion of respect among colleagues. The Professional Learning Coordinator will be required to abide by the NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct for Early Childhood professionals. Is flexible and open to quick changes being made to better meet the needs of program and project audiences as well as perform other duties to support Trying Together initiatives, as assigned. Has the ability to ask questions whenever unclear about a concept, task or activity. Required Clearances: Clean Act 33 Child Abuse Clearance. Clean Act 34 PA State Police Clearance. Clean Act 73 Federal Criminal History Clearance. National Sex Offender Registry (NSOR) Verification. Required Training: Mandated Reporter Training (must be completed in the first month of placement). NeonCRM Training (required and recommended online courses must be completed in the first three months of placement). Benefits: Competitive compensation and benefits package. Appreciative inquiry and strengths-based review process. Interested Applicants: Applicants must apply at tryingtogether.applytojob.com/apply and upload their resume and three work-related references. Phone calls will not be accepted. Posting will remain open until filled. Workforce Development Strategist Purpose: Working closely with the Director of Quality Initiatives Projects, Associate Executive Director, and Quality Initiatives Professional Development and ELRC teams, the Workforce Development Strategist is responsible for researching, developing, facilitating, and evaluating comprehensive professional growth opportunities for early education professionals that are aligned with field interests, needs, and trends as well as the organization’s mission, vision, and efforts. This is a full-time position that includes occasional evening and weekend hours, as well as light travel. The Workforce Development Strategist reports to the Director of Quality Initiatives Projects and is considered an active team member of the Trying Together Quality Initiatives department. Responsibilities: Oversee the development, coordination, facilitation, and evaluation of sequential, Trying Together workforce professional learning opportunities for early educators, such as the Child Development Associate credential (initial and renewal) and workforce Apprenticeship. The facilitation of such opportunities includes professional development coursework as well as participant and program coaching and mentoring. Be familiar with and assist in the coordination of professional development participants’ access to T.E.A.C.H., the PA CDA voucher system, PASSHE PDO, and other available professional development resources. Develop, facilitate, and evaluate professional development opportunities for early learning professionals and stakeholders on relevant topics that meet the needs of the field, including but not limited to: developmentally appropriate practice, child development, family-child program relationships, and professionalism within early learning programs. Aide in the reflection and evaluation of projects and programs, working directly with other team members. This process will work to ensure that Trying Together programs and resources pertain to the mission and vision of the organization and more importantly reflect the needs and interests of the communities at large. Support the Trying Together Coaching and Mentoring efforts of the Southwestern Pennsylvania ECE Apprenticeship Program. Maintain all coach and apprentice documentation, support apprentice and mentor registration and progress, and track apprentice on-the-job learning competencies. Support regional apprenticeship efforts in conjunction with the SW ECE Apprenticeship program partners. Support may include employer technical assistance, industry partnership initiatives, and collaborative efforts with institutions of higher education, the state PDO Coordinator, and PD Department of Labor staff. Collaborate and work with other Quality Initiatives team members, consultants, and volunteers, as well as Trying Together staff. The Workforce Development Strategist will participate in organizational team and all-staff meetings as well as may be asked to participate in other organizational initiatives that relate to the Workforce Development Strategist’s current work efforts and responsibilities. Be familiar with and oversee the support of early learning programs seeking national accreditation (NAEYC, NECPA, NAFCC). Complete on-site, face-to-face program visits offering support and strategies for continuous quality improvement. Consistently use the NeonCRM platform to build relationships with constituents, record data that measure project performance, and support continuous quality improvement in the organization’s resources and services. Commitment to racial equity and inclusion and a willingness to do the ongoing personal work to bring about a more just society. Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or related field (with a minimum of six early education credits). A Master’s degree is highly preferred. Experience in public speaking, particularly in the provision of professional learning utilizing adult learning principles. A current PA Quality Assurance System (PQAS) instructor certification is highly preferred. Is familiar with and has experience in developing and facilitating professional development opportunities including coursework for the Child Development Associate credential. Has experience in developing individualized education plans for early educators as well as appropriately assisting, coaching, and mentoring educators through the completion of such plans. Workforce apprenticeship knowledge and experience is highly preferred. Has experience in supporting early learning programs in the continuous professional development of program staff; program leadership experience is highly preferred. Has experience as or working with home-based child care providers. Is familiar with various educational professional development frameworks and standards such as: The Pennsylvania Core Knowledge Competencies; Coaching Powerful Interactions; The Early Childhood Mentoring Curriculum; The Danielson Framework for Teaching; and the NAEYC Standards for Programs Preparing Early Childhood Professionals. Is familiar and has experience with Pennsylvania Keystone STARS, Head Start, NAEYC Performance Standards, and PA Early Learning Standards. Has effective organizational skills, with the ability to multi-task and pay attention to detail. Has strong oral and written communication skills; public speaking expertise is required. Maintains confidentiality and values the notion of respect among colleagues. The Workforce Development Strategist will be required to abide by the NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct for Early Childhood Professionals. Is flexible and open to quick changes being made to better meet the needs of program and project audiences as well as perform other duties to support Trying Together efforts, as assigned. Has the ability to ask questions whenever unclear about a concept, task, or activity. Is able to travel throughout the region in order to attend meetings, visit early education facilities, and perform other duties to support Trying Together efforts, as assigned. Is familiar with and has the ability to manipulate typical organizational technology. Required Clearances: Clean Act 33 Child Abuse Clearance. Clean Act 34 PA State Police Clearance. Clean Act 73 Federal Criminal History Clearance. National Sex Offender Registry (NSOR) Verification. Required Training: Mandated Reporter Training (must be completed in the first month of placement). NeonCRM Training (required and recommended online courses must be completed in the first three months of placement). PQAS Professional Development Instructor Certification (must be obtained within the first year of employment). Benefits: Competitive compensation and benefits package. Appreciative inquiry and strengths-based review process. Interested Applicants: Applicants can apply below and upload their cover letter, resume, and three work-related references. Phone calls will not be accepted. Posting will remain open until filled.
