Support Services Aide

The Support Services Aide (SSA) works with teaching staff and volunteers to provide services to children, aged three to five years old, in a Head Start and/or ECEAP Preschool. The SSA also provides pupil supervision and ensures a safe environment for all children on a 22-passenger school bus as assigned. In addition, the SSA maintains working knowledge of Head Start Performance Standards, state ECEAP standards, agency policies and procedures and other applicable regulations. ABOUT THE SCHEDULE: We're hiring for both school-year and year-round positions, with opportunities for full-time, part-time and on-call roles.

• School-Year Positions: Work August-June with paid school breaks. During the summer, these roles transition to on-call status, offering flexibility while keeping you connected to our team.
• Year-Round Positions: Available for those seeking continuous, full-time employment.
• Full-Time Roles: Based at one of our Bellingham locations.
• Part-Time Roles: Monday through Friday, we will work with your schedule.
• On-Call Roles: Available county-wide for maximum flexibility.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assists in the preparation, set-up and clean-up of classroom/center activities as assigned.

• Works directly with children in small groups and individually.

• Performs meal set up and clean up as assigned.

• Assists with maintenance of materials and equipment.

• Assists with record keeping, routine center and parent communications and related documentation.

• Assists the bus driver in ensuring a safe environment on ELAFS buses., Specialize in providing services to clients and families who speak a language other than English as a primary language. May occasionally be asked to support with translating/interpreting a language other than English to assist potential or current clients. OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Attends parent events, meetings and training sessions as required by supervisor.

• Other duties as assigned., Working with Opportunity Council in Whatcom County is more than just a job, it's a chance to be part of something bigger. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest, our community is rooted in compassion, collaboration, and a shared commitment to positive change. Whether you're supporting local families, advocating for equity, or building programs that uplift our neighbors, you'll find purpose and connection here. Join us in building a stronger Whatcom County where everyone has the chance to thrive and contribute

Do you have experience in Writing skills?, Do you have a High school diploma or GED?, * Able to work effectively with parents, volunteers, children, and staff.

• Basic language skills including the ability to read and express oneself clearly verbally and in writing.
• Competent in documentation and record keeping.
• Demonstrated ability to relate in a supportive, non-judgmental manner to families of varying cultural, educational and socioeconomic backgrounds.
• Knowledge of other languages and cultures preferred.
• Basic computer skills, including familiarity with word processing, spreadsheet applications, and database input and e-mail for communication and record keeping.
• Able to adapt interpersonal skills in response to individual styles, personalities and cultures.

OUR IDEAL CANDIDATE WILL HAVE:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Child Development Associate (CDA) or coursework in ECE preferred.
• One year of volunteer or work experience in early childhood education preferred.
• Experience working with families under stress preferred.
• If recruitment is for a Bilingual position: Must bilingually speak, write and read with fluency and proficiency between English and Spanish, Russian, Punjabi, and/or other languages.

Pulled from the full job description

• 403(b)
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance
• Health savings account
• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account, * Initial health examination indicates you are fit for duty and free from communicable disease within 60 days of hire. Medical checkups are required every two years thereafter.
• Completed TB test and test results submitted to HR prior to hire date.
• Criminal record check (Portable Background Check through DCYF) to ascertain that the applicant has not been convicted of a child abuse or neglect offense per Washington State Child Abuse Law (Ch. 486, Laws of 1987) or DSHS licensing requirements.
• Current First Aid card and Infant/Child CPR training (or obtain within 30 days) and must maintain current certificates for length of employment.
• Have (or obtain prior to hire date) and maintain Washington State Food Handler's Permit during length of employment.

We place a strong value in hiring individuals with lived experiences of, poverty and/or homelessness or who have previously participated in Opportunity Council programs or other social services., We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and work-life balance.

• Paid time off earned on an accrual basis (vacation, sick, personal, holidays)
• Paid time off for wellness needs
• Employer-paid holidays
• Employer-paid HDHP and low-cost traditional health care options
• HSA and FSA plans, subject to plan terms
• Eligibility for critical illness insurance coverage
• 403(b) Retirement plan with employer contribution
• Eligibility for health coverage for legal dependents
• Eligibility for employee/family dental and vision coverage
• Voluntary benefits such as life insurance, long-term disability, and long-term care and personal legal services

For 60 years, Opportunity Council has worked throughout Northwest Washington to build just, equitable communities through service, investment, and collaboration. Our mission is to help people improve their lives through education, support, and direct assistance while advocating for just and equitable communities. Part of a national network of Community Action Agencies, we are dedicated to helping people help each other and themselves-building a community where everyone has the chance to thrive and contribute., Skagit County is a place where natural beauty meets heartfelt community spirit-and working with our nonprofit means becoming part of that connection. From the vibrant arts scene to the agricultural heritage of the Skagit Valley, this region is rich in culture, diversity, and opportunity. Our team is dedicated to serving local communities through programs that promote equity, resilience, and well-being. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact and want to work where your efforts truly matter, Skagit County is the place to grow, serve, and thrive. We believe our team should reflect the communities we serve. That's why we strongly encourage people of color, LGBTQIA+ individuals, Veterans, and people with disabilities to apply. Opportunity Council is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not permit discrimination based on race, creed, color, national origin, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, religion, marital or family status, pregnancy, military or veteran status, age, genetic information, disability, use of a service animal, or any other status protected by law.