Job Location : Detroit,MI, USA
Job Type Full-timeDescriptionJOB SUMMARY/ACCOUNTIBILITY:The Developmental Mental Health Coordinator provides specialized guidance, coordination, and support to meet the developmental and mental health needs of children enrolled in the Head Start program. This role is instrumental in ensuring the timely identification, referral, and follow-up of children with suspected or diagnosed disabilities. The coordinator supports IEP/IFSP processes, conducts developmental observations and screenings, and collaborates with teaching staff to implement appropriate supports. They model evidence-based strategies for teaching staff and provide direct classroom support to promote inclusive, trauma-informed, and developmentally appropriate practices. All services are delivered through collaborative and culturally responsive engagement with staff and families.POSITION QUALIFICATIONS:Bachelor's degree in early childhood development, Psychology, Social Work, Special Education, or a closely related fieldMaster's degree preferred; candidates with an Early Childhood (ZA) or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) endorsement highly desirableMinimum of two (2) years' experience working with young children with developmental, behavioral, or mental health needsDemonstrated knowledge of IDEA, the special education eligibility process, and coordination of IEPs/IFSPs Strong familiarity with Head Start Program Performance Standards and Michigan Child Care Licensing Regulations Effective in diverse cultural settings and comfortable working in a collaborative, team-based environment Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)Reliable transportation required Skilled in compiling and analyzing data to inform decisions and recommendationsExcellent verbal and written communication skillsGENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES:Support the identification, referral, and follow-up process for children with suspected or diagnosed disabilities Conduct observations and developmental screenings for children suspected of a disability or mental health diagnosis, in accordance with Head Start Program Performance StandardsSupport the implementation of IEP/IFSP goals by collaborating with classroom staff and service providersCollaborate with the Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) to develop and implement effective strategies that support children's developmental and behavioral needsModel effective, inclusive, and trauma-informed teaching strategies for classroom staffProvide on-site support and coaching to teaching teams to address challenging behaviors and developmental concernsMaintain regular communication with parents/guardians, offering guidance and resources related to developmental and mental health needsCollaborate with internal teams and external partners, such as Early on and LEA representatives, to ensure continuity of servicesAssist in monitoring and documenting child progress, including data entry in ChildPlus and related systemsProvide professional development and training for staff on topics such as child development, trauma-informed practices, and inclusive classroom strategiesParticipate in multidisciplinary team meetings and care conferences as neededMaintain organized records, reports, and documentation for internal tracking and reporting purposesStay current on best practices in early childhood development, mental health, and disability servicesDemonstrate the ability to work independently Perform other duties as assignedWORKING AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS:Works in a normal office environment with usual pressures of managing personnel and dealing with time constraints. Because of multiple sites within the department and the need to meet with others within the community, it is common to drive to several locations, sometimes in inclement weather. CONTINUOUS QUALITY IMPROVEMENT AND ETHICAL CONDUCT:All staff will use data to help achieve program goals; apply techniques and strategies that promote a culture of learning; identify and address gaps that continuously improve our programs.All personnel of Matrix must adhere to the NASW Code of Ethics and incorporate Continuous Quality Improvement efforts into their everyday performance. All Head Start employees must adhere to the federal regulations and requirements for Head Start operations including the Program Performance Standards, licensing regulations, and the NAEYC Code of ConductDemonstrate and actively promote an understanding and commitment to the mission and values of Matrix Human Services.