Position Summary

The Assessment Specialist supports quality improvement efforts within contracted early learning programs through specialized assessment, training, and technical assistance activities. Responsibilities include conducting program assessments, sharing assessment results, maintaining assessment documentation, providing foundational assessment-related training, and supporting continuous quality improvement efforts. This position helps ensure assessment activities are completed accurately, consistently, and in accordance with established standards and requirements. Success in this role requires strong observational skills, attention to detail, professionalism, communication, organization, and the ability to build positive relationships with providers.

Position OCAs

Other Cost Accumulators (OCAs) identify the primary activities associated with this position to support accurate time allocation, expenditure tracking, and reporting. Allocations reflect the general distribution of responsibilities and may vary based on operational needs.

Expected OCA Codes

• 97IAS
• VCPAS
• 97QAS
• VNPAS

Primary Responsibilities

Assessment Activities

• Conduct program assessments in accordance with established assessment tools, standards, and procedures.
• Complete pre-assessment activities, observations, scoring, and score-sharing processes.
• Maintain required assessment certifications and assessment reliability standards.
• Apply assessment tools consistently and accurately while maintaining objectivity and professionalism.

Provider Support & Technical Assistance

• Provide technical assistance related to assessment practices, processes, results, and quality improvement efforts.
• Support providers in understanding assessment outcomes and opportunities for growth.
• Respond to provider questions and requests related to assessment activities.
• Maintain professional relationships that support positive engagement and continuous improvement.

Documentation, Reporting & Quality Support

• Maintain accurate assessment records, provider communications, and supporting documentation.
• Enter, update, and maintain information within organizational databases and systems.
• Prepare assessment-related documentation, reports, and supporting materials as assigned.
• Support quality assurance, monitoring, and continuous improvement activities.

Training & Professional Development

• Deliver foundational assessment-related training and support activities for child care providers.
• Maintain knowledge of assessment tools, early learning best practices, and quality improvement initiatives.
• Participate in ongoing professional development and certification requirements.
• Support special projects, pilot initiatives, and assessment-related activities as assigned.

Core Competencies

• Assessment and observation skills
• Early childhood education knowledge
• Technical assistance and provider support
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Verbal and written communication
• Organization and time management
• Documentation and records management
• Customer service and relationship building
• Technology proficiency, including Microsoft Office and data systems
• Ability to interpret and apply assessment standards and requirements
• Professionalism and confidentiality
• Collaboration and teamwork

Position Classification & Competency Expectations

Scope & Focus

• Performs specialized or service-oriented work, requiring consistency, accuracy, and program knowledge.

Decision Making & Judgment

• Exercises judgement within established guidelines; handles standard variations and routine problem resolution; and seeks guidance for complex or policy level decisions.

Expertise & Independence

• Demonstrates solid understanding of job-specific standards, tools, and procedures; works with moderate supervision; and applies skills efficiently and reliably.

Growth & Impact

• Supports delivery of programs and services; contributes to accurate documentation, compliance, and client outcomes; and participates in routine improvements to service delivery.

Supervision & Leadership Impact

• Not responsible for supervising of others; may serve as a resource to peers or assist with onboarding.

Additional Organizational Support Expectations

This position also fulfills applicable organizational support expectations, including:

• All Staff Supports 

Education & Experience

Required

• Associate degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field.
• Minimum of two years of experience in an early learning or child care setting.
• Ability to obtain required CLASS certifications within established organizational timelines.
• Ability to travel throughout the service area to complete assessment activities.

Preferred

• Current CLASS certifications in Infant, Toddler, and/or Pre-K assessment tools.
• Experience conducting observations, assessments, coaching, training, or quality improvement activities.
• Experience supporting child care providers, educators, or early learning programs.
• Training and implementation experience related to trauma-informed care, Conscious Discipline, Strengthening Families, or similar frameworks.

Working Conditions & Physical Demands

• Physical demands and work environment characteristics described are representative; reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
• Regularly required to stand or sit for prolonged periods; walk; use hands and fingers; reach with hands and arms; climb and/or balance; stoop; kneel; crouch; crawl; talk; and hear.
• Must regularly lift and/or move up to twenty pounds and occasionally up to fifty pounds with assistance.
• Telework requires internet speeds of 8 Mbps download/8 Mbps upload and working within the immediate geographical area.
• Must maintain reliable transportation, minimum insurance coverage, a valid driver’s license, and a clean driving record.
• Reliable mobile phone service is required for technology compliance, including multi-factor authentication.
• Specific vision abilities may include close vision and the ability to focus for prolonged periods.
• Developmentally appropriate interactions with children may be required.

Organizational Culture & Values

• Assume Positive Intent 
• Be Effective 
• Choose Responsibility 
• Deliver Excellent Customer Service 
• Embrace Fun 
• Find the Solution that Best Helps the Child 

**This position description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. Additional duties may be assigned consistent with organizational needs and policies.**