OPT Early Childhood Education Jobs
Early childhood education jobs on OPT are available at preschools, Head Start programs, childcare centers, and K-3 schools. Most roles require a degree in early childhood education or child development. STEM OPT extension eligibility depends on whether your degree falls under a qualifying CIP code.
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Skagit Valley College exists to expand opportunities and horizons for students and to strengthen the communities in which they live by welcoming and valuing diverse learners, providing quality education and support, and contributing leadership and service. In alignment with this mission, Skagit/Island Head Start builds strong foundations for lifelong learning through family-centered, child-focused partnerships that support children and families, including those experiencing homelessness, poverty, foster care or child protective system involvement, and other life stressors.
Head Start is a federal program that has served vulnerable children and families for more than half a century and is committed to providing inclusive, nurturing environments where children are not expelled or excluded due to behavioral concerns, disabilities, or special needs. Instead, individualized support ensures that all children are prepared to enter kindergarten healthy and ready to learn. Center staff play a key role in supporting the needs of all children and families while collaborating with community partners to help build stronger communities.
Under the direction of the lead teacher, this position provides a variety of support to the daily routines and activities of a compliant and developmentally appropriate early childhood center. Working in an early learning center always requires prioritizing children’s health and safety. This role requires the ability to see and hear children and staff, work indoors and outdoors in varying conditions, and perform frequent physical activities such as sitting, standing, walking, bending, and lifting children up to 50 pounds.
There are two (2) vacancies, with one position reporting to each of the sites listed. Travel to other locations will be required for some pre-scheduled meetings and trainings.
Jefferson Head Start, located at 1801 E. Blackburn, Mount Vernon, WA 98274
Washington Head Start, located at 1020 McLean Road, Mount Vernon, WA 98273
These positions work 10.75 months per year and 38 hours per week.
Application materials will be accepted until the position is filled. Applications may be kept on file to be considered for openings that may occur in the future.
This position is grant-funded. The extension of the position is dependent on the continuation of funding.
The Location: Skagit Valley College is on the traditional and unceded territories of the Coast Salish People’s, especially on Swinomish Indian Tribal Community, Upper Skagit Indian Tribe, Samish Indian Nation, Nooksack Indian Tribe, and Sauk-Suiattle Indian Tribe. Located in a geographically diverse region between the dynamic metropolitan hubs of Seattle and Vancouver, BC, SVC is never far from world-class outdoor recreation, urban arts scenes, and local cultural events. SVC serves our local communities with a campus in Mount Vernon, Oak Harbor on Whidbey Island, and centers in Friday Harbor, a Marine Technology Center in Anacortes, and a Brewing Academy in Burlington.
Mission: Skagit Valley College cultivates student learning and achievement; contributes to the educational, personal, and economic success of students; and promotes equitable and thriving communities.
Vision: The primary focus of Skagit Valley College is student-centered teaching and learning. We are committed to:
* Equitable student outcomes in access, achievement, and community;
* Our Guiding Principles;
* Decisions based on strategy and evidence;
* The development of our employees;
* A diverse and inclusive college community where everyone belongs.
Guiding Principles: Respect, Integrity, Open and Honest Communication, Collaboration, and Compassion.
About SVC: Established in 1926, Skagit Valley College is a comprehensive community college within the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC) providing associates and bachelor’s degrees, as well as certificates, in high-quality academic transfer pathways, workforce training, basic education for adults, and lifelong learning opportunities. Our equity goals align with SBCTC’s Vision statement; “Leading with racial equity, our colleges maximize student potential and transform lives within a culture of belonging that advances racial, social, and economic justice in service to our diverse communities.”
SVC's commitment to equity and social justice drives our collective work to increase access to higher education, inspire student learning and achievement, and strengthen our diverse community. We embrace equity through our core themes of access, achievement, and community by pursuing the continuous examination and revision of norms, policies, and practices to foster the success of all.
SVC aspires to reflect the diverse racial, ethnic, and linguistic demographics in the district, particularly a growing Latinx population. As an emerging Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) SVC seeks equity-minded leadership, faculty, and staff that are committed to inclusive practices and diverse environments where students from all backgrounds can thrive via multidisciplinary collaboration and the implementation of an array of services. Candidates representing all aspects of diversity are encouraged to apply.
Skagit Valley College offers:
* An unrelenting focus on our mission to improve the lives of our students and to strengthen our diverse community.
* Support for innovative teaching, learning, and scholarship.
* Exciting opportunities for personal and career growth.
* Diverse cultural and environmental benefits of rural, suburban, and urban lifestyles.
* Friendly, supportive, and diverse work environments.
* Excellent benefits include competitive leave packages and an array of health, dental, vision, and retirement plans to meet your current and future needs.
Duties and Responsibilities
Ensure a safe, nurturing, welcoming, and developmentally appropriate environment
- Provide continuous active supervision as established in the center’s Active Supervision Plan;
- Welcome children, parents, and all visitors to the classroom; encourage parents, interns, volunteers, and visitors to participate in classroom activities;
- Use positive and intentional language to engage children and facilitate play in support of classroom plans and developmental goals;
- Support embedded strategies and practices within classroom routines and activities to promote all children’s progress toward school readiness goals, including children with IFSP or IEP goals and dual language learners;
- Based on the curriculum fidelity tool, set up and maintain a well-organized, interesting, and safe classroom environment that is developmentally appropriate for the children served;
- Interact with staff, therapists, volunteers, and parents in a positive and professional manner;
- During the absence of the lead teacher, lead children and adults through the daily schedule and provide direction as needed.
Support health, safety, and nutritional activities and requirements
- Conduct playground safety checks, as assigned;
- Conduct daily health checks for children upon arrival;
- Assist children with toileting needs, including diapering;
- Support daily meal routines by distributing and serving meals, sitting with children to model appropriate mealtime behaviors, and engaging in social conversations that build connections and support language development;
- Support classroom meal preparation and clean-up, including dishes;
- Clean and sanitize assigned areas, surfaces, and materials as needed, including cots, sheets, towels, and other laundered items;
- Empty garbage cans and clean bathrooms and classroom furnishings, as assigned;
- Administer first aid and respond to medical emergencies as they arise; complete incident reports as required and be available to discuss incidents with parents;
- In the absence of or at the direction of the teacher or center manager, administer prescribed or approved non-prescribed medications, as authorized. Document as required;
- Support the individualized health and mental health needs of each child, including behavioral needs;
- Be prepared to support a variety of tasks within the center, including food preparation (assisting in the kitchen) and other operational services, as needed, and as assigned.
Complete administrative tasks and participate in center support
- Participate in classroom planning sessions with the classroom teaching team; lead planning sessions in the absence of the lead teacher for up to three weeks, as assigned;
- Participate in center team meetings and quarterly family reviews;
- Assist the lead teacher with the ongoing collection and entry of observational data related to the GOLD assessment, including entering data in GOLD online and documenting planning on program forms or Teaching Strategies Cloud;
- Document attendance and meal service in ChildPlus;
- Support the completion of developmental and/or behavioral screenings within required program timelines;
- Assist the lead teacher during education visits (home visits and conferences);
- Provide mentorship to classroom assistants and interns;
- Support center parent committee meetings, training, and other family activities.
Participate in professional development and provide program support
- Complete annual requirements, including required training (Bloodborne Pathogens, CPS, Active Supervision, Food Handlers, Right Response, USDA), and sign the Confidentiality Statement and Code of Conduct & Ethical Standards forms;
- Engage in program training, coaching, and other professional development activities to enhance job skills and knowledge, completing at a minimum the required 15 hours of classroom-related training each year;
- Maintain good attendance to support optimal child outcomes;
- Complete ongoing job-related program and personal documentation (excluding GOLD and ChildPlus) in an accurate and timely manner, including ctcLink time reporting and program surveys;
- Participate in program committees, as desired.
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:
- Initial WA State ECE Certificate or valid Child Development Associate Credential (CDA);
- Fluency in English;
- Experience in an early learning classroom setting equal to three (3) years.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Short WA State ECE Certificate;
- Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE) or related field with Early Childhood Education credits equivalent to the WA State Early Childhood Education certificate;
- Experience working with children with an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) or Individualized Education Program (IEP);
- Bilingual in English and Spanish.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Ability to build and maintain constructive and effective relationships with others, demonstrating respect, cooperation, and mutual regard;
- Accountability through accepting personal responsibility for the timeliness and quality of work;
- An ongoing commitment to learning and self-improvement that includes reaching out to the appropriate individuals for support and guidance as needed;
- Demonstrated ethical and integrity-based behaviors that include setting appropriate boundaries and maintaining honesty and professionalism;
- Actively supports and honors inclusiveness and diversity;
- Ability to use technology to enter hours of work and leave;
- Ability to document information based on observations of children;
- Ability to follow directions and instructions to ensure a safe learning environment.
Salary, Benefits, Conditions of Employment, Application Procedure, About SVC
Salary and Benefits:
- Salary is based on Range 42, Step A, $3,635.65 per month with periodic increments to $4,731 per month. This salary is prorated at 95% full-time equivalency. Starting salary may be dependent on education, qualifications, and experience. Salary and benefits are subject to change in accordance with legislative mandates and collective bargaining agreements.
- This position is eligible for overtime pay in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act and is dependent upon continued grant funding.
- This is a union-represented position subject to a collective bargaining agreement.
- Retirement, medical, and insurance benefits are provided in accordance with state regulations. Additional information on benefits can be found at https://fortress.wa.gov/hca/pebbhealthplan/compare.aspx.
Conditions of Employment:
- A MERIT background check including fingerprints through the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF);
- If hired you will be required to provide proof that you are either 1) a U.S. citizen, or 2) an immigrant whose status permits you to lawfully work in this country;
- Within 30 days of hire, have or obtain the following:
+ an initial health examination indicating freedom from communicable diseases;
+ proof of a Tuberculosis (TB) test taken within 12 months prior to the initial employment date;
+ proof of immunization for measles, mumps, and rubella vaccination OR proof of immunity from measles;
+ CPR/First Aid card;
+ a current Food Handlers permit;
- Candidates who do not meet the minimum educational requirement must successfully complete a Professional Development Plan to attain the educational requirement in accordance with the timeline outlined in the plan;
- Meet all federally mandated requirements related to the Head Start program, including but not limited to continuing educational requirements and all Washington State laws and College policies related to the Head Start program and SVC employment;
- Have, or ability to obtain by the time of hire, a Washington State driver's license or equivalent, and proof of auto insurance;
- Prior to employment, a background check including criminal record history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform in the position.
Additionally, pursuant to RCW 28B.112.080, applicants must declare whether they are the subject of any substantiated findings of sexual misconduct in any current or former employment or are currently being investigated for, or have left a position during an investigation into, a violation of any sexual misconduct policy at the applicant’s current or past employer. By law, post-secondary education institutions cannot hire an applicant who refuses to declare the existence or non-existence of an investigation or findings subject to this statute.
In the interest of providing a healthy, safe, and secure educational and work environment, and in order to meet the requirements of federal legislation, it is the policy of Skagit Valley College to maintain an alcohol and drug-free workplace for our employees and students.
If hired you will be required to provide proof of identity and documentation of U.S. Citizenship or appropriate authorization to work in this position as required by the Immigration Reform Control Act of 1986.
This classification is included in the classified staff bargaining unit, represented by the Washington Public Employees Association, WPEA. Membership in the WPEA within thirty (30) calendar days of appointment at this classification is a requisite for employment at Skagit Valley College under union shop requirements.
In order to be considered for the position, you must complete the online application in full and attach the required supplemental documents. Failure to provide this information may eliminate you from consideration for this position.
Application Deadline: This position is open until filled, and applications submitted may be considered for future vacancies that occur.
Please be aware that the College hiring authorities reserve the right to hire one or more candidates and may exercise the option to make a hiring decision prior to the conclusion of the recruitment process. Only candidates selected to interview will be contacted.
Application Assistance: If you have questions about the position or require special accommodation, you may contact Human Resources at (360) 416-7794, Monday through Thursday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Pacific Time. SVC complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Applicants with disabilities who require assistance with the recruitment process may leave a TDD/TTY message at (360) 416-7718 by the application closing date.
For questions regarding the online application system, you may call NEOGOV Applicant Tech Support at (855) 524-5627 from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Pacific Time. For best results, apply using one of the following browsers supported by NEOGOV: Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Safari, Microsoft Edge, and later versions of Internet Explorer.
SVC Annual Security Report: The U.S. Department of Education and the federal Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act require all colleges to provide information to current and prospective students and employees about campus safety policies, procedures, and statistics on certain crimes, including hate crimes, domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, and sexual assault. We are required to report our campus security information and statistics in an Annual Security Report, which is updated annually each October. All prospective employees may obtain a copy of the Annual Security Report from the Human Resources Office by calling (360) 416-7794 or by accessing the Report at: https://www.skagit.edu/about/safety-security-parking/
Skagit Valley College is an equal-opportunity employer and is committed to providing equitable opportunities for all groups in terms and conditions of employment and personnel practices.
Skagit Valley College provides a drug-free environment and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity, pregnancy, genetic information, age, marital status, disability, honorably discharged veteran or military status in its programs and employment. For inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies, contact Carolyn Tucker, Vice President of Human Resources/EEO, 360.416.7794 or carolyn.tucker@skagit.edu. For inquiries regarding sexual misconduct compliance, contact Title IX Coordinator, Sandy Jordan, 360.416.7923 or sandy.jordan@skagit.edu. Mailing address: 2405 E. College Way, Mount Vernon, WA 98273.
Position Summary
Skagit Valley College exists to expand opportunities and horizons for students and to strengthen the communities in which they live by welcoming and valuing diverse learners, providing quality education and support, and contributing leadership and service. In alignment with this mission, Skagit/Island Head Start builds strong foundations for lifelong learning through family-centered, child-focused partnerships that support children and families, including those experiencing homelessness, poverty, foster care or child protective system involvement, and other life stressors.
Head Start is a federal program that has served vulnerable children and families for more than half a century and is committed to providing inclusive, nurturing environments where children are not expelled or excluded due to behavioral concerns, disabilities, or special needs. Instead, individualized support ensures that all children are prepared to enter kindergarten healthy and ready to learn. Center staff play a key role in supporting the needs of all children and families while collaborating with community partners to help build stronger communities.
Under the direction of the lead teacher, this position provides a variety of support to the daily routines and activities of a compliant and developmentally appropriate early childhood center. Working in an early learning center always requires prioritizing children’s health and safety. This role requires the ability to see and hear children and staff, work indoors and outdoors in varying conditions, and perform frequent physical activities such as sitting, standing, walking, bending, and lifting children up to 50 pounds.
There are two (2) vacancies, with one position reporting to each of the sites listed. Travel to other locations will be required for some pre-scheduled meetings and trainings.
Jefferson Head Start, located at 1801 E. Blackburn, Mount Vernon, WA 98274
Washington Head Start, located at 1020 McLean Road, Mount Vernon, WA 98273
These positions work 10.75 months per year and 38 hours per week.
Application materials will be accepted until the position is filled. Applications may be kept on file to be considered for openings that may occur in the future.
This position is grant-funded. The extension of the position is dependent on the continuation of funding.
The Location: Skagit Valley College is on the traditional and unceded territories of the Coast Salish People’s, especially on Swinomish Indian Tribal Community, Upper Skagit Indian Tribe, Samish Indian Nation, Nooksack Indian Tribe, and Sauk-Suiattle Indian Tribe. Located in a geographically diverse region between the dynamic metropolitan hubs of Seattle and Vancouver, BC, SVC is never far from world-class outdoor recreation, urban arts scenes, and local cultural events. SVC serves our local communities with a campus in Mount Vernon, Oak Harbor on Whidbey Island, and centers in Friday Harbor, a Marine Technology Center in Anacortes, and a Brewing Academy in Burlington.
Mission: Skagit Valley College cultivates student learning and achievement; contributes to the educational, personal, and economic success of students; and promotes equitable and thriving communities.
Vision: The primary focus of Skagit Valley College is student-centered teaching and learning. We are committed to:
* Equitable student outcomes in access, achievement, and community;
* Our Guiding Principles;
* Decisions based on strategy and evidence;
* The development of our employees;
* A diverse and inclusive college community where everyone belongs.
Guiding Principles: Respect, Integrity, Open and Honest Communication, Collaboration, and Compassion.
About SVC: Established in 1926, Skagit Valley College is a comprehensive community college within the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC) providing associates and bachelor’s degrees, as well as certificates, in high-quality academic transfer pathways, workforce training, basic education for adults, and lifelong learning opportunities. Our equity goals align with SBCTC’s Vision statement; “Leading with racial equity, our colleges maximize student potential and transform lives within a culture of belonging that advances racial, social, and economic justice in service to our diverse communities.”
SVC's commitment to equity and social justice drives our collective work to increase access to higher education, inspire student learning and achievement, and strengthen our diverse community. We embrace equity through our core themes of access, achievement, and community by pursuing the continuous examination and revision of norms, policies, and practices to foster the success of all.
SVC aspires to reflect the diverse racial, ethnic, and linguistic demographics in the district, particularly a growing Latinx population. As an emerging Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) SVC seeks equity-minded leadership, faculty, and staff that are committed to inclusive practices and diverse environments where students from all backgrounds can thrive via multidisciplinary collaboration and the implementation of an array of services. Candidates representing all aspects of diversity are encouraged to apply.
Skagit Valley College offers:
* An unrelenting focus on our mission to improve the lives of our students and to strengthen our diverse community.
* Support for innovative teaching, learning, and scholarship.
* Exciting opportunities for personal and career growth.
* Diverse cultural and environmental benefits of rural, suburban, and urban lifestyles.
* Friendly, supportive, and diverse work environments.
* Excellent benefits include competitive leave packages and an array of health, dental, vision, and retirement plans to meet your current and future needs.
Duties and Responsibilities
Ensure a safe, nurturing, welcoming, and developmentally appropriate environment
- Provide continuous active supervision as established in the center’s Active Supervision Plan;
- Welcome children, parents, and all visitors to the classroom; encourage parents, interns, volunteers, and visitors to participate in classroom activities;
- Use positive and intentional language to engage children and facilitate play in support of classroom plans and developmental goals;
- Support embedded strategies and practices within classroom routines and activities to promote all children’s progress toward school readiness goals, including children with IFSP or IEP goals and dual language learners;
- Based on the curriculum fidelity tool, set up and maintain a well-organized, interesting, and safe classroom environment that is developmentally appropriate for the children served;
- Interact with staff, therapists, volunteers, and parents in a positive and professional manner;
- During the absence of the lead teacher, lead children and adults through the daily schedule and provide direction as needed.
Support health, safety, and nutritional activities and requirements
- Conduct playground safety checks, as assigned;
- Conduct daily health checks for children upon arrival;
- Assist children with toileting needs, including diapering;
- Support daily meal routines by distributing and serving meals, sitting with children to model appropriate mealtime behaviors, and engaging in social conversations that build connections and support language development;
- Support classroom meal preparation and clean-up, including dishes;
- Clean and sanitize assigned areas, surfaces, and materials as needed, including cots, sheets, towels, and other laundered items;
- Empty garbage cans and clean bathrooms and classroom furnishings, as assigned;
- Administer first aid and respond to medical emergencies as they arise; complete incident reports as required and be available to discuss incidents with parents;
- In the absence of or at the direction of the teacher or center manager, administer prescribed or approved non-prescribed medications, as authorized. Document as required;
- Support the individualized health and mental health needs of each child, including behavioral needs;
- Be prepared to support a variety of tasks within the center, including food preparation (assisting in the kitchen) and other operational services, as needed, and as assigned.
Complete administrative tasks and participate in center support
- Participate in classroom planning sessions with the classroom teaching team; lead planning sessions in the absence of the lead teacher for up to three weeks, as assigned;
- Participate in center team meetings and quarterly family reviews;
- Assist the lead teacher with the ongoing collection and entry of observational data related to the GOLD assessment, including entering data in GOLD online and documenting planning on program forms or Teaching Strategies Cloud;
- Document attendance and meal service in ChildPlus;
- Support the completion of developmental and/or behavioral screenings within required program timelines;
- Assist the lead teacher during education visits (home visits and conferences);
- Provide mentorship to classroom assistants and interns;
- Support center parent committee meetings, training, and other family activities.
Participate in professional development and provide program support
- Complete annual requirements, including required training (Bloodborne Pathogens, CPS, Active Supervision, Food Handlers, Right Response, USDA), and sign the Confidentiality Statement and Code of Conduct & Ethical Standards forms;
- Engage in program training, coaching, and other professional development activities to enhance job skills and knowledge, completing at a minimum the required 15 hours of classroom-related training each year;
- Maintain good attendance to support optimal child outcomes;
- Complete ongoing job-related program and personal documentation (excluding GOLD and ChildPlus) in an accurate and timely manner, including ctcLink time reporting and program surveys;
- Participate in program committees, as desired.
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:
- Initial WA State ECE Certificate or valid Child Development Associate Credential (CDA);
- Fluency in English;
- Experience in an early learning classroom setting equal to three (3) years.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Short WA State ECE Certificate;
- Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE) or related field with Early Childhood Education credits equivalent to the WA State Early Childhood Education certificate;
- Experience working with children with an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) or Individualized Education Program (IEP);
- Bilingual in English and Spanish.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Ability to build and maintain constructive and effective relationships with others, demonstrating respect, cooperation, and mutual regard;
- Accountability through accepting personal responsibility for the timeliness and quality of work;
- An ongoing commitment to learning and self-improvement that includes reaching out to the appropriate individuals for support and guidance as needed;
- Demonstrated ethical and integrity-based behaviors that include setting appropriate boundaries and maintaining honesty and professionalism;
- Actively supports and honors inclusiveness and diversity;
- Ability to use technology to enter hours of work and leave;
- Ability to document information based on observations of children;
- Ability to follow directions and instructions to ensure a safe learning environment.
Salary, Benefits, Conditions of Employment, Application Procedure, About SVC
Salary and Benefits:
- Salary is based on Range 42, Step A, $3,635.65 per month with periodic increments to $4,731 per month. This salary is prorated at 95% full-time equivalency. Starting salary may be dependent on education, qualifications, and experience. Salary and benefits are subject to change in accordance with legislative mandates and collective bargaining agreements.
- This position is eligible for overtime pay in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act and is dependent upon continued grant funding.
- This is a union-represented position subject to a collective bargaining agreement.
- Retirement, medical, and insurance benefits are provided in accordance with state regulations. Additional information on benefits can be found at https://fortress.wa.gov/hca/pebbhealthplan/compare.aspx.
Conditions of Employment:
- A MERIT background check including fingerprints through the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF);
- If hired you will be required to provide proof that you are either 1) a U.S. citizen, or 2) an immigrant whose status permits you to lawfully work in this country;
- Within 30 days of hire, have or obtain the following:
+ an initial health examination indicating freedom from communicable diseases;
+ proof of a Tuberculosis (TB) test taken within 12 months prior to the initial employment date;
+ proof of immunization for measles, mumps, and rubella vaccination OR proof of immunity from measles;
+ CPR/First Aid card;
+ a current Food Handlers permit;
- Candidates who do not meet the minimum educational requirement must successfully complete a Professional Development Plan to attain the educational requirement in accordance with the timeline outlined in the plan;
- Meet all federally mandated requirements related to the Head Start program, including but not limited to continuing educational requirements and all Washington State laws and College policies related to the Head Start program and SVC employment;
- Have, or ability to obtain by the time of hire, a Washington State driver's license or equivalent, and proof of auto insurance;
- Prior to employment, a background check including criminal record history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform in the position.
Additionally, pursuant to RCW 28B.112.080, applicants must declare whether they are the subject of any substantiated findings of sexual misconduct in any current or former employment or are currently being investigated for, or have left a position during an investigation into, a violation of any sexual misconduct policy at the applicant’s current or past employer. By law, post-secondary education institutions cannot hire an applicant who refuses to declare the existence or non-existence of an investigation or findings subject to this statute.
In the interest of providing a healthy, safe, and secure educational and work environment, and in order to meet the requirements of federal legislation, it is the policy of Skagit Valley College to maintain an alcohol and drug-free workplace for our employees and students.
If hired you will be required to provide proof of identity and documentation of U.S. Citizenship or appropriate authorization to work in this position as required by the Immigration Reform Control Act of 1986.
This classification is included in the classified staff bargaining unit, represented by the Washington Public Employees Association, WPEA. Membership in the WPEA within thirty (30) calendar days of appointment at this classification is a requisite for employment at Skagit Valley College under union shop requirements.
In order to be considered for the position, you must complete the online application in full and attach the required supplemental documents. Failure to provide this information may eliminate you from consideration for this position.
Application Deadline: This position is open until filled, and applications submitted may be considered for future vacancies that occur.
Please be aware that the College hiring authorities reserve the right to hire one or more candidates and may exercise the option to make a hiring decision prior to the conclusion of the recruitment process. Only candidates selected to interview will be contacted.
Application Assistance: If you have questions about the position or require special accommodation, you may contact Human Resources at (360) 416-7794, Monday through Thursday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Pacific Time. SVC complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Applicants with disabilities who require assistance with the recruitment process may leave a TDD/TTY message at (360) 416-7718 by the application closing date.
For questions regarding the online application system, you may call NEOGOV Applicant Tech Support at (855) 524-5627 from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Pacific Time. For best results, apply using one of the following browsers supported by NEOGOV: Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Safari, Microsoft Edge, and later versions of Internet Explorer.
SVC Annual Security Report: The U.S. Department of Education and the federal Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act require all colleges to provide information to current and prospective students and employees about campus safety policies, procedures, and statistics on certain crimes, including hate crimes, domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, and sexual assault. We are required to report our campus security information and statistics in an Annual Security Report, which is updated annually each October. All prospective employees may obtain a copy of the Annual Security Report from the Human Resources Office by calling (360) 416-7794 or by accessing the Report at: https://www.skagit.edu/about/safety-security-parking/
Skagit Valley College is an equal-opportunity employer and is committed to providing equitable opportunities for all groups in terms and conditions of employment and personnel practices.
Skagit Valley College provides a drug-free environment and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity, pregnancy, genetic information, age, marital status, disability, honorably discharged veteran or military status in its programs and employment. For inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies, contact Carolyn Tucker, Vice President of Human Resources/EEO, 360.416.7794 or carolyn.tucker@skagit.edu. For inquiries regarding sexual misconduct compliance, contact Title IX Coordinator, Sandy Jordan, 360.416.7923 or sandy.jordan@skagit.edu. Mailing address: 2405 E. College Way, Mount Vernon, WA 98273.
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship in Early Childhood Education
Target public school districts early
Public school districts often have HR departments familiar with work authorization. Apply 3 to 4 months before the school year starts, when hiring decisions are made and there is still time to process your OPT documentation.
Clarify your STEM OPT eligibility upfront
Early childhood education and child development degrees sometimes qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension. Confirm your CIP code with your DSO before job searching so you can honestly represent your authorization timeline to employers.
Address work authorization proactively in applications
Many childcare employers are unfamiliar with OPT. Include a brief, clear sentence in your cover letter explaining that you are authorized to work for any employer and that no sponsorship is currently required during your OPT period.
Focus on employers with established HR infrastructure
Larger childcare chains, university-affiliated lab schools, and nonprofit Head Start grantees are more likely to have HR teams that understand employment verification and EAD documentation than small independent centers.
Get your state teaching license or CDA credential now
Many states require a Child Development Associate credential or state teaching license for lead teacher roles. Obtaining credentials before you apply removes a hiring barrier and signals long-term commitment to employers considering OPT students.
Plan your H-1B or O-1 pathway before OPT ends
Early childhood education roles can qualify for H-1B visa sponsorship if the position requires a relevant bachelor's degree. Research which employers have sponsored visas before and discuss long-term options with any employer before your OPT authorization expires.
Early Childhood Education OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work as a lead teacher or classroom teacher on OPT?
Yes. Lead teacher and classroom teacher roles at preschools, Head Start programs, and elementary schools are eligible OPT employment as long as the work is directly related to your degree in early childhood education or child development. Your EAD card serves as proof of work authorization. Make sure the job description aligns with your field of study, which your DSO can help you confirm.
Does an early childhood education degree qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
It depends on your specific CIP code. Some early childhood education programs are classified under STEM-eligible codes, such as those emphasizing child development science or educational psychology. Others are not. Check with your DSO and confirm your program's CIP code on your I-20 before assuming STEM OPT eligibility. If your degree qualifies, you can apply for an additional 24 months of work authorization beyond your initial 12-month OPT period.
How do I find early childhood education employers who are open to OPT students?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for F-1 OPT and visa-sponsoring employers, making it a practical starting point for early childhood education job searches. Beyond that, target larger organizations such as Head Start grantees, university lab schools, and nonprofit childcare networks, which tend to have HR teams more familiar with EAD documentation and work authorization than small independent centers.
Will I need state licensure or a CDA credential to work on OPT in this field?
State licensure and credential requirements vary. Many states require a Child Development Associate credential, a state-issued teaching license, or both for lead teacher roles in licensed childcare facilities. These requirements apply to all workers regardless of immigration status, so you should research your state's specific rules and pursue any required credentials before or shortly after starting your job search.
Can an early childhood education employer sponsor me for an H-1B after OPT?
Yes, early childhood education roles can qualify for H-1B sponsorship if the position genuinely requires a bachelor's degree or higher in a specific field such as early childhood education or child development. Public school districts and larger nonprofit organizations are the most common sponsors in this field. Confirm H-1B eligibility with an immigration attorney before committing to an employer, and have the conversation with your employer well before your OPT period ends.