Child Care Inspection Specialist - Grand Island

Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is a state agency that, "Helps People Live Better Lives" every day. The Division of Public Health within DHHS, has an immediate opening for a Child Care Inspection Specialist.

To learn more please visit our website at http://dhhs.ne.gov/licensure/Pages/Licensing-Home-Page.aspx

We offer an excellent total compensation package including: 13 paid holidays; vacation and sick leave; State-matched retirement plan; health, dental, vision, and life insurance options!

• Scheduling and conducting inspections to licensed child care and preschool programs; complaint investigations on these programs and initiate appropriate response using a set group of regulations, statutes, and policies.
• Inform and educate licensees about child care regulations, to both obtain and retain licensure and to provide a safe and healthy environment for children.
• Schedule and conduct inspections of Family Child Care, Child Care Centers, School Age Only, and Preschool programs licensed by the State of Nebraska to determine compliance with licensure standards. Investigate allegations of illegally operating child care.
• Testify as necessary in Administrative Hearings.
• Initiate and recommend negative/discipline actions against licensed programs in response to non-compliance with regulations. Other job related work as required.

REQUIREMENTS: Bachelors degree in elementary or early childhood education, human development, sociology, psychology, child development, social work, nursing or related field, AND experience as an inspector/compliant investigator in human services licensing, child welfare, and/or Children's Services provider at the level of licensee, director or assistant director of a child care center.

PREFERRED: Experience as an inspector/investigator in Human Services Licensing/Child Welfare. SDM training or CFS Specialists experience a plus. Bi-lingual.

Knowledge of: Developmentally appropriate practice that enhances the emotional, social, and intellectual growth of children. Components of quality children's programs. Key issues that impact the quality of early childhood programs. Microsoft office software.

Skills & Abilities: Communicate verbally and in writing in a professional efficient manner. Interpret and apply regulations, policies and procedures. Prioritize and work independently while maintaining accuracy. Ability to communicate with team members, licensees, and other partners in a courteous, professional, and timely manner. Quickly analyze difficult situations, and develop an appropriate strategy. Evaluate and determine the appropriateness of licensed child care programs. Compare data with established criteria to determine similarities and differences.