Recruitment and Health Specialist

Job summary:

The Recruitment and Health Specialist is responsible for promoting and recruiting for NMCAA Child Development programs and collaborating partners to ensure full enrollment, while assisting families in meeting all health screening requirements and documentation. They work closely with local health providers and Child Development staff to track health requirements, follow up on screenings, and ensure compliance with federal and local guidelines.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Ensure all applications, documentation, and eligibility meet local and federal guidelines.
• Manage waitlists, collaborate with teachers and coaches to achieve full enrollment, and follow up on incomplete applications. Request Individualized Education Program (IEP) and medical follow-up information as needed.
• Promote Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency (NMCAA) Head Start, Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP), and Collaborative Partners through mailings, media efforts, meetings, and outreach  to referring agencies. Act as the primary public relations contact for these programs.
• Collaborate with Child Development staff, local GSRPs, and the Intermediate School District to promote program goals, attend joint recruitment meetings, and follow recruitment procedures.
• Build and maintain relationships with local health departments, medical practices, and dental offices. Ensure completion of health requirements and documentation for NMCAA Head Start and GSRP programs within required timeframes and communicate with families as needed.
• Conduct health screenings (hearing, vision, hematocrit, blood pressure) and ensure timely distribution of results.
• Communicate with teachers and coaches regarding health and licensing requirements.
• Work with the Health/Data Management Coordinator to ensure accurate data in ChildPlus, and use reports to guide daily tasks. Scan and store health records electronically in ChildPlus.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Commitment to the NMCAA philosophy and mission. Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to interact positively with co-workers and clients in a respectful, tactful, and  courteous  manner. Ability to propose creative solutions to effectively complete job responsibilities.
• Ability to work collaboratively and contribute as an active team member. Ability to perform physical tasks necessary to fulfill job duties.
• Strong collaboration skills with agencies, GSRP partners, the Intermediate School District, and health entities.
• Effective communication, organizational skills, and the ability to work efficiently while adhering to NMCAA Child & Family Development Program policies.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in social services, health field, or equivalent experience preferred. 2 years’ prior experience working with low income/at-risk families.

Physical Requirements and Work Environment:

• Frequent physical activity involving keyboarding, sitting, phone work, and filing. Extensive time spent working on a computer.
• Regular car travel required.
• Occasional to frequent lifting, pushing, and/or pulling of items ranging from under 25 lbs. to over 50 lbs.
• Frequent bending, stooping, reaching, climbing, kneeling, and twisting.

Travel Requirements:

• Travel within the county or counties to meet with clients, community partners, and attend all-staff meetings as required.

Licensing and Other Requirements:

• Valid driver’s license and proof of vehicle insurance is required. Reliable transportation is essential for job functions.