Fort Hood Head Start Mental Health Aide

Hill Country Community Action Association, Inc.

Head Start Job Description

JOB TITLE: Mental Health Aide (28 hours) FLSA STATUS: Non-exempt

REPORTS TO: Teacher/Director ASSIGNMENT DATE: _____________

DESIGNATED HEADQUARTERS: _____________

__________________________________________________________________________________________

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Mental Health Aide will have overall responsibility for the designated child or children in accordance with classroom management, MH Behavior Management Plan, and Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) (if available or applicable).

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Works closely with MH/Disability coordinator, school district, and/or mental health professional.
• Works specifically with designated child which may have difficulty with classroom management.
• Diaper Changing
• Completes monthly Aide Checklist
• Works only when the child is present.
• Work hours may vary according to the classroom needs.
• Center director supervises the Mental Health Aide's task.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE: Minimum: High School Diploma or GED. Ability to record data pertinent to Head Start Performance Standards.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES: Must have a warm, supportive, pleasant and positive attitude toward young children and parents. Must be reliable. Ability to communicate and function with various professionals and community groups. Able to carry out directions and instructions. Bilingual skills are encouraged.

OTHER: Professional manner and attire. No record of a conviction which would contraindicate employment. Must be 21 years of age and must have, at a minimum, a valid Class C Driver's License, and a reliable vehicle with current liability insurance; insurable under HCCAA's vehicle insurance policy. An initial Head Start physical screening within 30 days of hire. Must obtain or maintain CPR and First Aid certifications (collateral rather than primary duty of this position) within 90 days of hire. Must comply with all HCCAA Policies and maintain confidentiality in all phases of agency operations.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: No

EQUIPMENT TO BE USED:

Must be able to operate a computer and other office machines such as fax, calculator, copier, and telephone.

TYPICAL PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Must be able to lift up to 40 pounds. Standing, walking, bending, twisting, reaching, and sitting. Requires a normal range of hearing and vision. Must be able to react quickly (run after a child).

TYPICAL MENTAL DEMANDS:

Must manage new and diverse work problems daily. Personal maturity is an important attribute. Must be able to resolve problems, manage conflict, and make effective decisions under pressure. Must have the ability to listen objectively to people, perceive the real problem and assist in bringing issues to a successful conclusion. Must relate and interact with employees at all levels within the agency. Knowledge of basic math and literacy skills. Ability to record data pertinent to Head Start Performance Standards.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

During the Head Start school year the classroom staff is scheduled to work an alternate work schedule to coincide with the center's hours of operation. (As assigned for those working less than full time). The center hours of operation are typically 7:30 am-4:00 pm, Monday-Friday. The Center Director will plan the work schedule for each employee. To meet program goals, classroom staff will occasionally be required to perform duties outside their alternate work schedule.

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS:

Accrual of sick and vacation leave and up to 15 paid holidays per year.

FLSA STATUS DISCLAIMER:

FLSA status is based in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act. Any changes in the act which will affect the FLSA status will be adhered to. When wages exceed the position entry level due to tenure, the Exempt/Non-Exempt status will be designated accordingly.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT AND RECEIPT:

I have reviewed the Mental Health Aide job description and acknowledge its receipt. I understand that my job may not necessarily be limited to those listed, as their exact nature may vary as program, project elements, and priorities change in the future. I understand that this job description may be updated as needed.

________________________________________ _____________________________________

Employee Signature Date

As supervisor of the Mental Health Aide position, I have received a copy of this job description and acknowledge its receipt with my signature below.

________________________________________ _____________________________________

Supervisor Signature Date