Job: Primary Care Worker

Job Summary:

Casa de los Niños’ shelter programs are based upon a primary care model which requires working in small groups with low staff/child ratios to provide a substitute family life experience for the children who live here. The Primary Care Worker ensures the safety, developmental, and nutritional needs of Casa’s children. Primary Care workers must possess the ability to work with children from age’s infant – up to 12 years old.

Essential Duties: Each Primary Care Worker must engage in developmentally appropriate child oriented activities as well as more general requirements.

Developmentally Appropriate Child Oriented Activities:

* Facilitates established developmental curriculum for children infant – up to 12 years old.
* Assist children in meeting weekly goals by assuring tasks are completed
* Ensures the safety and protection of children.
* Models respectful, encouraging interactions with children and peers.
* Assists children in following consistent routines.
* Assists children in developing life skills which facilitate healthy growth and development
* As required, transporting children to off-campus outings and events in Casa vehicles.
* Mentors parents of children in the group as they are learning to perform activities of daily care with their child.

General institutional requirements include:

* Provides input regarding the emotional, social, physical, and cognitive growth of each child.
* Adheres to Casa policies and procedures.
* Attends team meetings, trainings and other non specified requirements.
* Follows the guidance and instruction of the Shift Manager and the Child Guidance Specialists.
* Continues to seek education/trainings in the field of child development and behavior management by attending conferences, seminars and in-service presentations (24 hours of annual training required).
* Plans for and includes the use of a Casa Volunteer staff in daily activities.
* Works cooperatively with other Casa staff. Demonstrates respectful, professional demeanor at all times.
* Documents all client related information on agency program by computer. Specific information regarding the care, progress, and activities of children.
* Works with therapists and other interventionists to strengthen skills of the children.
* Ability to maintain a calm and positive demeanor and flexibility. Combines or changes groups as necessary as directed by the shift manager.
* Works to teach and role model for parents invited to join the group
* Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS: To fulfill the job requirements the person must:

* Have the ability and attitude to work and respond to the needs of a culturally diverse population.
* Have the ability manage developmental needs and behaviors of children infant -12 years
* Have a high school diploma or GED
* Staff hired for full time must be 18 years old.
* Have the ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
* Demonstrate good written and oral communication.
* Have a valid Arizona driver’s license (exceptions to this requirement are made infrequently and is mandatory for full time Staff).
* Practice a nurturing, mutually respectful, non punitive approach to discipline.
* Ability to document and navigate computer system program.