This position will work closely with the Child Development Associate (CDA) roundtable, which consists of members from Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Nebraska Department of Education (NDE), Nebraska Association for the Education of Young Children (Nebraska AEYC), Nebraska Early Childhood Collaborative (NECC), University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL) Extension, local community colleges, and the Buffett Early Childhood Institute. The purpose of the roundtable is to bring together partners across the state interested in creating a streamlined pathway to obtain a CDA and beyond in Nebraska. The CDA navigator will primarily assist with recruitment, mentoring, and tracking of early childhood professionals seeking a CDA. The navigator will perform a wide range of tasks to support CDA candidates and ensure that they earn their credential. Additionally, this position will provide administrative support for the CDA Roundtable including communication with the Council for Professional Recognition. This is a one-year grant-funded position ending July 31, 2024, with the possibility of extension.

An equivalent combination of education and experience from which comparable knowledge and abilities is acquired may be considered.

The ideal candidate will be well versed in the Child Development Associate credentialing process. A successful candidate will have exceptional communication and relationship-building skills; the ability to work collaboratively with early childhood professionals from multiple settings, interact professionally with people from all walks of life, and deal effectively with both pleasant and unpleasant situations; have respect for local community culture; be responsive to local community priorities; possess strong project coordination skills and the ability to prioritize tasks; have initiative, good follow-through, and ability to work on a diverse team, problem-solving and appropriate decision-making skills, independent judgment and self-direction to complete assigned tasks; be detail-oriented and accurate, and be willing to learn and use new technologies and to train others, when needed.

Applicants should note that the goals of the Institute are university-, state-, and nation-wide, but the location of the Institute administration is in Omaha. This position will work primarily out of the Omaha office.

Follow instructions to complete the Standard Application. Along with your application, attach a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three professional references. Direct questions about the position to: humanresources@nebraska.edu. Direct questions about the online application process to: (402) 472-3701.