Job Openings

Project NOW employs approximately 130 people in Rock Island, Mercer, and Henry Counties in Illinois. If you are interested in seeking employment opportunities at Project NOW, please send us your application and resume, or come in to one of our locations to fill out an application in person. You can email your resume and application to: amishra@projectnow.org. You will be contacted by Human Resources if you are selected for an interview. Due to the high volume of applicants, we are not able to personally contact each applicant. We are an Equal Opportunity employer and we participate in E-Verify.

Download our Job Application Here (PDF)

Job Title: Van Driver 2 (Aledo)
Department: Senior Services

SUMMARY Transports seniors, disabled persons, & the general public in Rock Island & Mercer Counties

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties as assigned.

• Drive passenger vans and/or light duty buses to transport people.
• Check vehicle on a daily basis, report all mechanical problems immediately.
• Report all accidents immediately and complete required reports.
• Follow all traffic laws and other regulations/policies.
• Keep accurate records of bus usage, number of transports, fuel cost, mileage, and other required data.
• Keeps to schedule as given by dispatcher, will not deviate unless expressly given permission.
• Keeps dispatcher notified of location at all times.
• Escort customers to and from bus when required.
• Keep bus clean and neat in appearance.
• Complete all paperwork in a timely fashion.
• Attends training as required.
• Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos.  Ability to write simple correspondence. Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations to customers and other employees of the organization.  Must have good verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals
• Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out detailed but uninvolved written or oral instructions.  Ability to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations.
• Must have a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and proof of insurability.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
This job has no supervisory responsibilities.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE
High school diploma or general education degree (GED); and three months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.  Must have documented good driving record and have had drivers license for a minimum of 3 years.  Must be at least 21 years of age. 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS and WORK ENVIRONMENT The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.  While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear.  The employee frequently is required to walk, stand, stoop, kneel, and sit.  The employee must frequently lift and/or move more than 100 pounds as required to assist the passengers to and from the van.

Job Title: Head Start Director
Department:  Head Start

SUMMARY: Directs Project NOW’s Head Start program in order to provide a high quality child and family development program by performing the following duties.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties as assigned.

• Oversees all operations of Head Start services using a system approach and team management that ensures compliance with federal, state and local regulations.  Oversees development and continuous improvement of systems, including technology.
• Reviews and monitors all Head Start systems by supervision of managers and by periodic, regular site visits.  Uses service outcomes, measured against Performance Standards, to make or recommend adjustments to program.
• Works with management team, parents, Policy Council, community, Executive Director and Board of Directors to plan program operations, prepare funding applications and budgets, and to develop strategic plans.  Prepares and submits required documents to Policy Council for approval; submits approved documents to Office of Head Start in a timely manner.

• Manages program budget and monitors financial status of Head Start through review of budget reports, including In-Kind. 
• Authorizes purchases and approves payment of all invoices. 

• Submits monthly programmatic reports to Executive Director, Policy Council and Board of Directors.  Communicates values, strategies, and objectives.
• Oversees comments and concerns from parents, community partners and others.  Reports concerns and complaints to Executive Director and to Policy Council.
• Actively participates as a member of the Governance Team. Attends governance meetings, as required, providing reports and making recommendations.  Participates in agency and program management meetings. 
• Maintains knowledge and skills by attending trainings, reading publications, and establishing professional networks. 
• Supervises provision of training staff, management, and parents on Head Start Performance Standards and other topics.
• Provides leadership in maintaining program communication networks, both verbal and written, with parents, staff, community and management.  Speaks on behalf of the agency and program to church, civic groups, businesses, etc.
• Collaborates with community organizations, agencies, funders, customers and staff to maximize use of resources in providing services.  Reviews and updates annual partnership agreements; develops new partnerships.
• Establishes and maintains a system of self-evaluation of the Head Start program that develops a climate for offering information and opinions and includes the direct involvement of parents, staff, and community.
• Directs a Community Needs Assessment and a Wage Comparison Study a minimum of every three years.
• Ability to read, analyze and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures or governmental regulations.  Ability to write reports, business correspondence and procedure manuals.  Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers and the general public.

• Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as discounts, interests, commissions, proportions, percentages, area circumference and volume.  Ability to apply concepts of basic mathematical skills.  Knowledge of and ability to use computer software including Databases, Microsoft Windows and Office Software (Word, Excel, Outlook, Powerpoint) and be able to use office equipment such as 10 key and keyboard.

• Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardizations exist.  Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram or schedule form.
• Must have reliable transportation, proof of insurance and valid driver’s license.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:  Directly Supervises 4 Head Start managers and indirectly supervises over 50 staff.  Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws.  Provides leadership in a team environment; assigns accountability; plans monitoring and appraisal of job results.   Responsible by supervision for recruiting, selecting, orienting, training, coaching, counseling, disciplining and terminating all staff. 

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:  Requires Bachelor's Degree preferably in Education, Human Services, Business Administration or related field and 5 years’ experience in program management.  Head Start or Early Childhood experience is preferred.  Requires experience in human resource management, budget and grant management, planning and organization.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS and WORK ENVIRONMENT:  While performing duties of this job:  the employee is regularly required to talk or hear.  The employee frequently is required to stand, walk, sit and use hands to finger, handle and feel.  The employee is occasionally required to reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl.  The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.  Work environment as associated with an administrative position within a preschool educational environment.

Job Title: Outreach Worker (Kewanee)
Department: CSBG/LIHEAP

Summary:  Performs a variety of outreach functions and searches for customers who do not know about or have not utilized appropriate services.

Essential duties and responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

• Familiarizes self with all agency programs and mode of operation with particular emphasis on program guidelines.
• Familiarizes self with all available area resources and develops a good working relationship with other groups/agencies in order to better coordinate services.
• Conduct follow-up on referrals from other agencies in a timely manner
• Assesses client needs through intake and identifies and informs customers of resources available; refers, follows-up customers and provides services as indicated.
• Advocate for customers wrongfully denied services.
• Conducts home visits as needed and provides individual emphasis on family development and self-sufficiency.
• Assists customers in job search/placement or enrollment in education/training programs by making referrals and assisting with the resume or application processes as needed.
• Maintains accurate, confidential case files/records, updating as necessary.
• Attends program, agency and outside meetings/trainings as requested.
• Be willing to travel as necessary
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.  Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.  Ability to speak effectively before groups of customers or employees of organization.  Must have good verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.  Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent and to draw and interpret bar graphs.
• Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form.  Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.   Must be able to work independently and have the ability to apply social work principles to real life situations.
• Must have completed a recognized Family and Community Development Certification process or have equivalent academic course work.  Experience with advanced outreach, case management and/or family development desired.
• May be required to drive.  Must have a reliable vehicle, valid driver’s license, and proof of insurance.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: This job has no supervisory responsibilities.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE: High school diploma or general education degree (GED) and 1 year of related experience and or training or a combination of education and experience.  Must be proficient with Microsoft Windows and Office software and be able to operate office equipment such as 10 key and keyboard.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS and WORK ENVIRONMENT:  While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and listen.  The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit.  The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds as it relates to the office environment.  The noise level is quiet and the type normally associated with the office environment

Job Title: Administrative HR Specialist
Department: Administration

SUMMARY: To perform administrative duties for the Executive Director and coordinate Human Resource activities including recruiting, employment, compensation, staff relations.  Interact administratively with a variety of persons including agency staff, board members, funders and the public.  Act as custodian of official agency confidential records.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following.  Other duties as assigned.

• Must exercise sound judgment and discretion with respect to matters of administrative significance.  
• Take and transcribe dictation and compose and prepare confidential correspondence, reports and other documents. Type letters, statements, spreadsheets as well as narrative and statistical reports.  Prepare correspondence and reports, with some direction, for supervisor’s signature. Create and maintain databases, spreadsheets and files for Executive Director.
• Strong organizational skills and confidentiality skills are essential. Attend confidential meetings as required.
• Serves as custodian of corporate records/documents, maintaining confidential nature of corporate activities, records and information.  Files documents as needed including HR documentation.
• Investigate and gather facts as requested on employee matters including unemployment claims.
• Demonstrate very strong interpersonal skills w/others including Staff, Board Members, Vendors and Community.
• Screen incoming calls and correspondence and respond independently when possible. May receive and screen office visitors, telephone calls and emails. May receive, screen, and refer citizen/customer complaints as needed.
• Analyzes wage/salary data to recommend competitive compensation plan to the executive director.
• Works with Agency Directors to ensure that job descriptions are updated.
• Leads management in issues regarding employee development, hiring, termination, training and discipline; providing management with essential information regarding HR Policy and benefits.
• Writes updates to Employee Handbook and corresponds with staff to keep them advised of various updates including Employee Handbook, EOAA Policy, compensation, and benefits.
• Is knowledgeable re: federal & state law; consults as needed w/legal counsel to ensure that policies & practices comply.
• Writes and delivers presentations to staff, board members, community groups or others re: HR policies and practices.
• Must be able to multi-task, readily shifting between vastly varied tasks.
• Prepare and mail packets for Project NOW’s Board of Directors Meetings, Finance Meeting, Planning & Evaluation Meeting.
• Attend meetings as requested by Executive Director – including board/committee, staff and community meetings.
• Arranges programs, events or conferences by arranging for facilities and caterer, issuing information or invitations, running Power Point demonstrations, coordinating speakers, and controlling event budget.
• Notarize necessary documents requiring Notary Public Association of Illinois Certification, and/or ability to obtain one.
• Strong written communication skills required to prepare and distribute records including agendas, notices, minutes, and resolutions for Agency meetings. Complete/submit all meeting minutes to Executive Director within 2 days of meeting.
• May assist with marketing efforts of Project NOW including preparation and distribution of press releases, newsletters, flyers, brochures, Annual Report; may include updating Project NOW website & social media.
• Ability to read/analyze/interpret common journals, financial reports, procedure manuals and legal documents.
• Ability to respond to inquiries or complaints from customers, regulatory bodies, community members.
• Ability to work with mathematical concepts such as probability and statistical inference. Ability to apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations.
• Ability and knowledge of technology with proficiency in office technology including Microsoft Office Software and Human Resource software applications.
• Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts & draw valid conclusions. Ability to interpret a variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form & deal with several abstract and concrete variables.
• Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions (written, oral and diagram form).
• Must have a dependable vehicle, valid driver’s license and proof of insurance and be able to travel.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: This job has no supervisory responsibilities.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE: Bachelor’s Degree and 2 years related experience or AA Degree and 5 years related experience and/or training. SPHR or PHR preferred. Must be proficient in Microsoft Office Suite. Notary Public Association of Illinois Certification desired.

PHYSICAL and WORK ENVIRONMENT: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit, talk listen, type, and write.  The employee is occasionally required to stand. The employee will be required to use telephones and computers frequently. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds associated with the office environment.  The noise level is quiet as it relates to the office environment.

Job Title: Family Service Worker
Department: Head Start

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:  Functions as a member of Head Start team to provide comprehensive services in accordance with all regulations and program requirements.   Includes the following and other duties as assigned.

• Functions as a member of the center team to facilitate communication and smooth operation of parent activities.  Supplies parent with Parent Handbook/Social Service Directory and other notices, informing parents of program activities and assists in production of center newsletter.
• Follow discipline policies, which include developmentally appropriate social-emotional and behavioral health promotion practices as well as discipline and intervention procedures that provide specific guidance on what teachers and programs should do to prevent and respond to challenging behaviors.
• Develop familiarity with community agencies and resource persons. Make appropriate referrals as needed, assists other staff to make and record referrals.   
• Conducts regular home visits (minimum of 2 per year) with parents, setting family goals and assisting parent in achieving them, follow-up on needs, providing case management and parent trainings. 
• Participates in monthly Center supervisory team meetings. Follows-up on Family Needs Assessment, Applications, Transitions and Attendance to assure progress of family goals.
• Assists center parent committee chairperson with parent meetings such as parenting sessions, family fun nights and transition activities.  Attends all parent meetings at assigned site(s), providing what assistance is requested.
• Arranges transportation and babysitting for all meetings, referrals and other program activities.  This includes In-Kind forms, activity sheets, updates to child records, referrals and follow-ups, family service plans and other documents.
• Initiates the recruitment, enrollment and encouragement of parent involvement in all areas of Head Start.   
• Works with all families in acquiring a primary health care source and assuming responsibility for family needs.
• Provides input to the Social Service/Parent Involvement/Community partnerships along with the Family Engagement for the annual plan update.
• Assists parent to develop a Family Engagement Outcomes, Family Partnership Agreement and Attendance Plan/Transition with goals to accomplish during the Head Start year.
• Maintains accurate documentation for all children and families information; utilizes database for recording and reporting data.
• Submits to program supervisor and or manager reports and required forms on time including parent meetings, center team meeting and parent committee meetings agendas with minutes attached.
• Communicates with office staff updated information from individual child health records. 
• Transport families to & from medical/dental appointments as needed.
• Helps families with a smooth transition into public schools or into Head Start.
• Requires the ability to travel area-wide, and to access classroom sites and family homes to evaluate visits with the families. 
• Requires minimum age Twenty-one (21) years to comply with regulations.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.  Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.  Ability to speak effectively before groups.
• Assists in organizing and participates in Parent Orientation for assigned center(s). Collaborates with teaching staff on the parent bulletin board at the center(s).
• Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form.  Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.
• Requires ability to pass a medical examination, certifying freedom from communicable disease upon offer of employment.
• Requires a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and proof of agency requirements for automobile insurance.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:  This position has no supervisory responsibilities.
EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE: Requires a Child Development Associate (CDA) certification or ability to complete CDA within 2 years of hire and full time experience in Early Childhood, Family Services or related field.  An Associate’s degree in social work or early childhood education is highly preferred. 
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT   While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; talk or hear; and taste or smell.  The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds, as when dealing with pre-school age children.  Work environment as associated with the normal office environment and pre-school environment.

Job Title: Program Specialist
Department: Housing

SUMMARY Serves as programmatic specialist for the Housing/Weatherization Division, helping to assure program quality, completion, compliance, and timeliness of various program components. 
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

• Works to assure that customer files are complete and in compliance with funding requirements, in order to facilitate service delivery of Housing programs, including Housing Rehab, Weatherization and Property & Assets.
• As assigned, acts as a point of contact or liaison with the contractors, partner agencies and the public.
• May assist with various training classes as assigned including Weatherization and Housing Counseling and Education.
• Assist with intake and referral of customers as requested.
• Serves as go-to- person for various staff, customers, partners and contractors to facilitate day-to-day operations.
• Daily communication with a variety of persons including customers, staff, vendors and contractors requires heightened customer service skills.
• Maintain all customer and programmatic files, ensuring confidentiality at all times.
• Must have a very strong working knowledge of various program guidelines.
• Must possess excellent customer service skills and work to resolve individual customer complaints in a timely manner.
• Interacts with and assists other staff in the completion and compilation of paperwork, updating of forms, collecting information and communicating with them regularly on various program issues.
• Travels to meetings, conferences, training and workshops as required.
• Works with management to verify and reconcile all customer and contractor accounts between the Finance Department and Programmatic data systems across the Housing Division.
• Assists in compiling and reconciling information necessary for grant administration, including applications, close-outs, payment authorizations, annual and quarterly reports.
• Assists with the preparation of reports of program information as directed.
• Works with Housing Director and Finance staff to facilitate contractor draws and payout requests.
• Must have excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills. Must be able to work well with people from all social and economic backgrounds.  Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to perform computations on a calculator or computer necessary to verify costs, evaluate bids and reconcile accounts.
• Must have in-depth knowledge of essential programmatic database computer programs as well as in-depth knowledge of other computer programs including Excel, Word, and Outlook.
• Must have excellent organizational skills and the ability to multi-task
• Must have a valid drivers license and proof of insurance 

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:  This position has no supervisory responsibilities, but may have day to day operational oversight of various staff.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:  Relevant Bachelor’s Degree preferred; or, minimum Associates Degree and 2 years equivalent experience required.  Minimum of 2 years experience in program management with a non-profit agency or comparable setting.  Experience in banking, property title and deed processing, or real estate closing is a plus.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS and WORK ENVIRONMENT: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.  While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, talk and listen.  The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds as it relates to the office environment. The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet as generally associated with an office environment.

Job Title: Meal Site Monitor
Department: Senior Services

SUMMARY: Oversee the day-to-day activities at the meal sites.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

• Open site and make preparations to serve the meals.
• Recruit, organize and supervise volunteers to assist in the operation of the meal site.
• Promote meal site in community & recruit customers.
• Monitor supplies on hand and reorder when necessary.
• Maintain accurate records of those who attend the meal site on a daily basis.
• Count daily donations, make deposit and send in weekly accounting reports.
• Make daily reservations with the caterer.
• Take daily reservations and get client signatures when meals are served.
• Attend monthly Meal Site Monitor and Menu Planning meetings.
• Will learn proper portion control.
• Will be trained to understand and adhere to all procedures including participant confidentiality, complaints and suggestions.
• Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos.  Ability to write simple correspondence.  Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations to customers, clients, and other employees of the organization.  Must have good verbal communication skills
• Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. 
• Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out detailed but uninvolved written or oral instructions
• Must have a reliable vehicle, valid driver’s license and proof of insurability.
• Must become certified in first and CPR within 6 months of employment.
• Must pass the State of Illinois Department of Public Health Food Service Sanitation Certification Exam within 6 months of employment.
• Must stay current with first aid, CPR training, and Food Service Sanitation Certification.
• Ensure proper handling of food and keep a safe and sanitary meal site at all times.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
May supervise 2 or more volunteers in the Meal Site Program in accordance with the organization's policies.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE
High school diploma or general education degree (GED); and three months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS and WORK ENVIRONMENT.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; talk or hear; and taste or smell.  The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.  While serving food and assisting clients at the meal sites, the noise level in the work environment is usually moderate and associated with a restaurant environment.  Also will be working around hot and cold foods and must practice good safety habits.

Job Title: Assistant Teacher Home Based
Department: Head Start

Summary: Functions as a member of Head Start team to provide comprehensive services in accordance with all regulations and program requirements.

Essential duties and responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

• Works cooperatively with teaching team to plan and provide daily early childhood education program at a center site. Follows proper procedures in the safe and healthy care of children, including those with special needs. Works with a 10-12 child caseload in individualization, observation and evaluation of each child.
• Follow discipline policies, which include developmentally appropriate social-emotional and behavioral health promotion practices as well as discipline and intervention procedures that provide specific guidance on what teachers and programs should do to prevent and respond to challenging behaviors.
• Maintains a safe, healthy learning environment. Works cooperatively with staff to conduct daily site safety checks and daily child health checks. Assists w/meal service, sanitation and cleaning of site. Complies with Risk Management procedures.
• Assistant Teachers also filling the Advocate role due to shorter class times will have the following additional responsibilities: Assists parents in developing a Family Service Plan/Family Partnership Agreement with goals to accomplish during the Head Start year. Works with families to develop a list of community services and to make all appropriate referrals, including locating a source of primary health care and other services. Plans and conducts a minimum of two home visits with each family per program year. Provides parents with handbook, social services directory and other materials. Provides parent training and educational experiences on home visits. Maintain accurate records of home visit activities, submit home visit reports.
• Maintains regular communication with parents and actively encourages parent participation. Encourages parent volunteers for all program areas, meetings and other activities. Routinely attends parent activities. Assists in training center volunteers.
• Participates in supervisory meetings, center team meetings, in-services, visits, conferences, planning sessions, and staffings for the children and families as needed. Provides parent training and educational experiences in the center. Takes leadership role in the classroom in the absence of the Teacher/Advocate.
• Assists in recruitment of children in Head Start by collaborating with public school registrations, going door-to-door in service area, posting recruitment materials, distributing flyers, setting up registration sites, and other activities. Works with potential candidates in gathering registration documents and processing applications.
• Weekly Responsibilities: Submit lesson plans to Education Manager for review. Attendance and Child/Parent sign-in/out form submitted to HS office. In-Kind and activity sheets submitted to Office Manager.
• Monthly Responsibilities: Participate in monthly fire and tornado drills. Submit USDA Meal Participation form to HS Office Manager. Submit end of month report and emergency light/exit checklist to HS office.
• Maintains accurate records of center and home visit activities and submits all required reports, forms, records and expenses on time. This includes inventories, child observations and assessments, updates to child records, home visit reports, referrals, follow-ups and other family records. Assists in maintaining a classroom bulletin board containing required postings.
• Requires minimum age Nineteen (19) years to comply with regulations.
• Requires the ability to travel area-wide, and to access classroom sites and family homes to provide visits with the families.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from managers, families, staff and the general public.
• Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram or schedule form. Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.
• Requires ability to pass a medical examination, certifying freedom from communicable disease upon offer of employment.
• Requires a valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and proof of agency requirements for automobile insurance.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE: Requires a high school diploma or GED with CDA and 1 year of experience OR 18 hours of ECE with 1 year experience OR 2 years experience and must complete CDA within 1 year.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS and WORK ENVIRONMENT: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; talk or hear; and taste or smell. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. These physical demands are as with handling children of pre-school age. Environment will be of a normal office environment and normal pre-school environment.

Job Title: Assistant Teacher(Kewanee)
Department: Head Start

Summary: Functions as a member of Head Start team to provide comprehensive services in accordance with all regulations and program requirements.

Essential duties and responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

• Works cooperatively with teaching team to plan and provide daily early childhood education program at a center site. Follows proper procedures in the safe and healthy care of children, including those with special needs. Works with a 10-12 child caseload in individualization, observation and evaluation of each child.
• Follow discipline policies, which include developmentally appropriate social-emotional and behavioral health promotion practices as well as discipline and intervention procedures that provide specific guidance on what teachers and programs should do to prevent and respond to challenging behaviors.
• Maintains a safe, healthy learning environment. Works cooperatively with staff to conduct daily site safety checks and daily child health checks. Assists w/meal service, sanitation and cleaning of site. Complies with Risk Management procedures.
• Assistant Teachers also filling the Advocate role due to shorter class times will have the following additional responsibilities: Assists parents in developing a Family Service Plan/Family Partnership Agreement with goals to accomplish during the Head Start year. Works with families to develop a list of community services and to make all appropriate referrals, including locating a source of primary health care and other services. Plans and conducts a minimum of two home visits with each family per program year. Provides parents with handbook, social services directory and other materials. Provides parent training and educational experiences on home visits. Maintain accurate records of home visit activities, submit home visit reports.
• Maintains regular communication with parents and actively encourages parent participation. Encourages parent volunteers for all program areas, meetings and other activities. Routinely attends parent activities. Assists in training center volunteers.
• Participates in supervisory meetings, center team meetings, in-services, visits, conferences, planning sessions, and staffings for the children and families as needed. Provides parent training and educational experiences in the center. Takes leadership role in the classroom in the absence of the Teacher/Advocate.
• Assists in recruitment of children in Head Start by collaborating with public school registrations, going door-to-door in service area, posting recruitment materials, distributing flyers, setting up registration sites, and other activities. Works with potential candidates in gathering registration documents and processing applications.
• Weekly Responsibilities: Submit lesson plans to Education Manager for review. Attendance and Child/Parent sign-in/out form submitted to HS office. In-Kind and activity sheets submitted to Office Manager.
• Monthly Responsibilities: Participate in monthly fire and tornado drills. Submit USDA Meal Participation form to HS Office Manager. Submit end of month report and emergency light/exit checklist to HS office.
• Maintains accurate records of center and home visit activities and submits all required reports, forms, records and expenses on time. This includes inventories, child observations and assessments, updates to child records, home visit reports, referrals, follow-ups and other family records. Assists in maintaining a classroom bulletin board containing required postings.
• Requires minimum age Nineteen (19) years to comply with regulations.
• Requires the ability to travel area-wide, and to access classroom sites and family homes to provide visits with the families.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from managers, families, staff and the general public.
• Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram or schedule form. Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.
• Requires ability to pass a medical examination, certifying freedom from communicable disease upon offer of employment.
• Requires a valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and proof of agency requirements for automobile insurance.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE: Requires a high school diploma or GED with CDA and 1 year of experience OR 18 hours of ECE with 1 year experience OR 2 years experience and must complete CDA within 1 year.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS and WORK ENVIRONMENT: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; talk or hear; and taste or smell. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. These physical demands are as with handling children of pre-school age. Environment will be of a normal office environment and normal pre-school environment.

Job Title: Bus Driver
Department: Head Start Kewanee

SUMMARY:  Provides safe transportation services and supports all components of Head Start in compliance with regulatory guidelines and program requirements. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties as assigned.

• Assures that bus is properly inspected and maintained.  Completes daily pre- and post- trip inspection. Assists in scheduling and completing minor repairs.  Schedules and completes regular maintenance and cleaning.  Keeps accurate records on bus usage. 

• Works cooperatively with monitors and other program staff and volunteers to ensure that all passenger boarding, seating, riding and exiting the bus are done in safe and appropriate manner.  Ensures that procedures for special needs passengers are followed along with proper equipment and restraints.  Ensures proper discipline techniques are used on the bus.

• Knows and follows Risk Management and other procedures in case of an accident.  Performs regular Evacuation Drills with all passengers as required by regulatory agencies.
• Ensures timely transportation of all passengers to and from daily routes, field trips, parent meetings and other special activities.  Assists with establishing transportation routes.
• Provides meal service transportation and delivery, as needed.  Ensures compliance with all procedures, rules, regulations and adhering strictly to infection-control policies and protocols.  Maintains all foods in safe and sanitary condition; returning used dishes to the kitchen of distribution.  Loads food and containers, directing helpers to ensure that all food and beverage items are ready for transportation. Assists at site with meal service and child services, as needed.
• Assists with planning, set up and completion of periodic driver and monitor training.  Participates in in-services and other required training.  Assists in recruitment of children in Head Start. 
• Must be able to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos.  Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations to customers, clients, and other employees of the organization. Must have good written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.  Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent.
• Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out detailed but uninvolved written or oral instructions.  Ability to deal with problems involving a few variables in different situations.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:   This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:  High school diploma or general education degree (GED); and three months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS: Requires the ability to pass a medical examination certifying you to be physically able to drive a school bus and free from communicable disease.  Requires the possession or attainment of a valid Illinois Commercial Driver's license (CDL) and current Illinois School Bus Driving permit.  Requires submission to initial and random periodic drug and alcohol testing. 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS and WORK ENVIRONMENT:  The employee frequently is required to stand, walk, sit and use hands to finger, handle and feel.  The employee is occasionally required to reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl.  The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.  Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distant vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.  Requires the physical ability to sit for long periods of time in a vehicle.  While performing the duties of this job, employee is occasionally exposed to outside weather conditions.  The noise level in work environment is usually moderate.

Job Title: Classroom Aide
Department: Head Start - Kewanee

SUMMARY Works cooperatively with teaching and family service team to plan and provide daily early childhood education program at a center site.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Functions as a member of the Head Start team to provide comprehensive services in accordance with all regulations and program requirements. Other duties as assigned.  

• Works cooperatively with teaching and family service team to plan and provide daily early childhood education program at a center site. Follows proper procedures in the safe and healthy care of children, including those with special needs. Assists in individualization, observation and evaluation of each child.
• Maintains a safe, healthy learning environment. Works cooperatively with other staff and managers to conduct daily safety of site and daily health checks of children. Assists with meal service, sanitation and cleaning of site. Complies with all Risk Management procedures; assists with regular fire drills and tornado drills.
• Assists in maintaining regular communication with parents and actively encouraging parent participation. Assists in encouraging parent volunteers for all program areas, meetings and other activities. Assists in generating referrals for services for families and children as appropriate. Assists in training center volunteers on center routines, discipline, and activities.
• Participates in supervisory meetings, center team meetings, in-services, visits, conferences, planning sessions, and staffings for the children and families as needed. Assists in planning parent training and educational experiences for home visits and in the center. 
• Assists in recruitment of children in Head Start by collaborating with public school registrations, developing and producing advertising and other materials, going door-to-door in service area, posting recruitment materials, distributing flyers, setting up registration sites, and other activities. Assists recruitment team in helping potential candidates gather registration documents, and assists in processing applications.
• Maintains records and submits all required reports, forms, records and expenses on time. This includes inventories, lesson plans, meal service records, child observations and assessments, In-Kind forms, homework/activity reports, updates to child records, home visit reports, referrals, follow-ups and other family records. Assists in maintaining a classroom bulletin board containing all required postings for review.
• Takes role of Assistant Teacher/Advocate in that person's absence.
• Requires minimum age of eighteen (18) years to comply with regulations.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from managers, families, staff, and the general public.
• Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as proportions, percentages, area, circumference, and volume.
• Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram or schedule form. Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.
• Must have valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and proof of insurance.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:  This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:  Requires a high school diploma or GED and experience with preschool-aged children.  Must be willing to attend college courses in child development or early childhood education and special needs and/or complete coursework for Child Development Associate (CDA) certification within 2 years.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS and WORK ENVIRONMENT:  While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; talk or hear; and taste or smell.  The employee must periodically lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. These physical demands are as with handling children of pre-school age. Environment will be of a normal office environment and normal pre-school environment.

Job Title:  Head Start Site Supervisor
Department: Head Start

SUMMARY :  Functions as a member of the Head Start team to provide comprehensive services in accordance with all regulations and program requirements.  

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties as assigned 

• Maintains a safe, healthy learning environment.  Works cooperatively with staff to conduct daily safety checks of site and daily health checks of children.  Follows proper procedures in the safe and healthy care of children, including those with special needs.  Works with staff to ensure continuity of curriculum and a high standard of quality in classroom.  Oversees food service at center to assure children are served healthy, nutritious meals.  Complies with Risk Management procedures; conducts regular fire drills and tornado drills.  Serves as center contact person for licensing.

• Upholds all policies including Project NOW Employee Handbook, DCFS licensing standards, Head Start Performance Standards, USDA and Food Sanitation policies at all times.  Educates/mentors staff regarding policy and holds staff accountable for following policies.

• Recruits children in Head Start by collaborating with public school registrations, developing and producing advertising and other materials, going door-to-door in service area, posting recruitment materials, distributing flyers, setting up registration sites, and other activities.  Works with potential candidates in gathering registration documents and processing applications.
• Maintains regular communication with families, staff, supervisor and community in a variety of ways including verbal and written.  Use technology to facilitate efficient communication.  Maintains an electronic calendar shared with management.
• Assures all families have an opportunity to participate in all Head Start program activities.  Ensures quality services are provided to all families in a timely manner.   Ensures center volunteers are trained on center routines, discipline, and appropriate activities. Participates in parent orientation, committee meetings, trainings, and other family events.  Arranges transportation and childcare for meetings, referrals and other program activities. 
• Submits all required reports and other paperwork to supervisor in a timely manner.  Includes classroom and site inventories, supply requisitions, accident/incident reports, medication and allergy documentation, transportation reports, food service paperwork, licensing applications, regulatory inspection documentation, referrals, follow-ups and other family records.  Maintains complete and accurate records of all children and staff at center with duplicate submitted to main office for file.
• Conducts planning sessions, and staffing for children and families.  Takes leadership role in program activities and staff scheduling.
• Attends meetings as requested.
• To perform all duties and responsibilities of Teacher/Advocate position, including filling in for staff as needed.
• Requires the ability to travel area-wide, and to access classroom sites and family homes. 
• Requires minimum age of twenty-one (21) years to comply with regulations.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating/maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.  Ability to write routine reports/correspondence.  Ability to speak effectively before groups of families/employees.
• Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as proportions, percentages, area, circumference, and volume. Ability to apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry.
• Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form.  Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.
• Requires the ability to pass a medical examination, certifying freedom from communicable disease upon employment offer.
• Requires a valid driver's license, reliable transportation and proof of Insurance

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:  Collaborates with staff and management team in providing high quality comprehensive services to families. Functions as a contact person at assigned site and provide guidance to site in the absence of Program Supervisor.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:  Requires a Bachelor's degree in child development or early childhood education with 2 years' experience in Head Start or other early education/family services, or a Bachelor's degree with coursework equivalent to a major (minimum of 30 semester hours) in child development or early childhood education plus 2 years' experience in Head Start or other early education/family services.

Job Title: Teacher/Advocate 1 (Center Based)
Department: Head Start - Kewanee

SUMMARY:  Functions as a member of the Head Start team to provide comprehensive services in accordance with all regulations and program requirements. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties as assigned.

• Works cooperatively with teaching team to plan and provide daily early childhood education program at a center site.  Follows proper procedures in the safe and healthy care of children, including those with special needs. Works with a 10-12 child caseload in individualization, observation and evaluation of each child.
• Maintains a safe, healthy learning environment.  Works cooperatively with other staff and managers to conduct daily safety checks of site and daily health checks of children.  Ensures meal service, sanitation and cleaning of site.  Complies with all Risk Management procedures; conducts regular fire drills and tornado drills.
• Teachers also filling the Advocate role due to shorter class times will have the following additional responsibilities: Assists parents in developing a Family Service Plan/Family Partnership Agreement with goals to accomplish during the Head Start year.  Works with families to develop a list of community services and to make all appropriate referrals, including locating a source of primary health care and other services.  Plans and conducts a minimum of two home visits with each family per program year.  Provides parents with handbook, social services directory and other materials.  Provides parent training and educational experiences on home visits. Maintain accurate records of home visit activities, submit home visit reports.
• Maintains regular communication with parents and actively encourages parent participation.  Encourages parent volunteers for all program areas, meetings and other activities.  Routinely attends parent activities.  Trains center volunteers on center routines, discipline, and activities.  Provides parents with handbook, social services directory and other materials. 
• Participates in supervisory meetings, center team meetings, in-services, visits, conferences, planning sessions, and staffings for the children and families as needed.  Provides parent training and educational experiences in the center.  Takes leadership role in parent activities in the absence of Program management. 
• Assists in recruitment of children in Head Start by collaborating with public school registrations, going door-to-door in service area, posting recruitment materials, distributing flyers, setting up registration sites, and other activities.  Works with potential candidates in gathering registration documents and processing applications.

• Weekly Responsibilities:   Submit lesson plans to Education Manager for review. Attendance and Child/Parent sign-in/out form submitted to HS office. In-Kind and activity sheets submitted to Office Manager.

• Monthly Responsibilities:   Participate in monthly fire and tornado drills. Submit USDA Meal Participation form to HS Office Manager. Submit end of month report and emergency light/exit checklist to HS office.
• Requires the ability to travel area-wide, and to access classroom sites and family homes to provide visits with the families.
• Requires minimum age Twenty-one (21) years to comply with regulations.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.  Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.  Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from managers, families, staff and the general public.
• Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as proportions, percentages, area, circumference, and volume. Ability to apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry.
• Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram or schedule form.  Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.
• Requires ability to pass a medical examination, certifying freedom from communicable disease upon offer of employment.
• Requires a valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and proof of agency requirements for automobile insurance.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:  This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:  Requires an Associate's degree with a minimum of eighteen (18) semester hours in child development or early childhood education and 2 years full time early education experience, plus ability and willingness to take courses every semester towards a bachelor's degree with a minimum of 30 semester hours in early education or related field.  
PHYSICAL DEMANDS and WORK ENVIRONMENT   While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; talk or hear; and taste or smell.  The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. These physical demands are as with handling children of pre-school age.  Environment will be of a normal office environment and normal pre-school environment.

Summary:  Functions as a part of the meal service team for the site(s) assigned and is responsible for food service in compliance with all regulatory guidelines and program requirements.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following.  Other duties as assigned.

• Responsible for meal preparation and service at assigned center site(s) by completing daily and weekly checklists. Assures preparation of healthy, nutritious meals in a safe and sanitary manner.  Follows proper food sanitation procedures to assure safety of foods served and stored.
• Works cooperatively with other staff and managers to provide food service at assigned center site(s).  Assists with meal service and child services, as needed.  Complies with all Risk Management procedures; participates in regular fire and tornado drills.
• Maintains a safe, healthy work environment, overseeing cleaning of food service areas on a daily basis.  Washes dishes following proper sanitation procedures.  Ensures that equipment and appliances are well maintained, conducts monthly safety checks of all appliances to ensure safe operation.
• Accepts and reviews deliveries; stores promptly.  Utilizes First In/First Out method in food storage and use.
• Ensures transport of food to assigned center site(s), maintaining proper temperature and sanitation conditions.
• Assists with menu planning, providing suggestions and making written changes on menu when they occur.  Prepares grocery list/supplies for purchasing each week based on menu and inventory.  Ensures food and supplies are ordered and stored in a timely manner.

Education and/or Experience:  Requires a high school diploma or GED and Food Service Sanitation certification, or ability and willingness to complete GED and courses in food service and sanitation.

Summary:  Functions as a member of the Head Start management team to provide comprehensive services in accordance with all regulations and program requirements.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following.  Other duties as assigned.

• Provides leadership in a team environment, including recruiting, interviewing, orienting, training, coaching, counseling, disciplining and evaluating staff.
• Follow discipline policies, which include developmentally appropriate social-emotional and behavioral health promotion practices as well as discipline and intervention procedures that provide specific guidance on what teachers and programs should do to prevent and respond to challenging behaviors.
• Provide guidance and oversight of the chosen educational program, including training of classroom staff on the components of the chosen curriculums, monitoring of educational program through classroom observations, review of weekly lesson plans, classroom staff meetings, and evaluation of educational program through assessments (CLASS, Creative Curriculum, etc).
• Supervision of Program Supervisors to ensure that services are offered in a cohesive, streamlined and timely manner.
• Attend professional development opportunities related to the educational program services.
• Form and maintain an Education Committee comprised of staff, parents, community members, and managers. Meet quarterly to share data and form an ongoing education improvement plan.
• Coordinates with management team in preparation of reports, analyzing data and identifying solutions in a timely manner. Tracks and ensures all comprehensive services are provided to all families.
• Coordinates with management team in preparation of reports, analyzing data and identifying solutions in a timely manner. Tracks and ensures all comprehensive services are provided to all families.
• Assures families have an opportunity to participate in all Head Start program activities. Ensures quality services are provided to all families. Puts systems in place so that effective communication occurs between families, staff and community services.
• Plans and implements professional development at monthly in-services based on classroom observations, input from classroom staff and program supervisors, and assessment data. Maintain Professional Development records with all staff.
• Ensures consistent application of policy, including HS Performance Standards, HS Act, DCFS regulations, Project NOW’s Employee Handbook and Finance Policies.
• Collects, maintains, and compiles data for reports, both programmatic and budgetary information.
• Actively participates in management team by attending program-planning meetings; ensuring systems are in place for implementing program activities. Maintains connections w/community services and other organizations, advocating for families, obtaining and maintaining service agreements; serving in an advisory capacity; and developing new partnerships to benefit Head Start families.
• Recruits children in Head Start by collaborating with public school registrations, developing and producing advertising and other materials, going door-to-door in service area, posting recruitment materials, distributing flyers, setting up registration sites, and other activities. Works with potential candidates in gathering registration documents and processing applications.
• Requires the ability to travel area-wide, and to access classroom sites and family homes to evaluate program activities.
• Requires minimum age of twenty-one (21) years to comply with regulations.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations. Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, families, and the general public.
• Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.
• Requires the ability to pass a medical examination, certifying freedom from communicable disease upon offer of employment.
• Requires a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation and proof of insurance.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: Direct supervision of 3 Program Supervisors and indirect supervision of approximately 45 classroom staff. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with Project NOW’s policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include training and mentoring of employees; appraising performance; addressing complaints and resolving problems.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:  Requires a Bachelor’s degree in child development or early childhood education or related field. Supervisory and/or administrative experience highly preferred. Three years’ experience in early childhood education, supervisory experience highly preferred.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS and WORK ENVIRONMENT: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; talk or hear; and taste or smell. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. These physical demands are as with handling children of the pre-school age. Environment will be of a normal office environment and normal pre-school environment.

Project NOW is an EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER and PROVIDER

Positions within Project NOW are primarily grant funded and funding decreases can affect our staffing needs.