Job Description

Erikson Institute, the nation’s leading graduate school in child development, is seeking to hire a full-time Inclusion Consultant for the Infant/Toddler Inclusion Project (ITIP). The ITIP team supports Early Head Start (EHS) and Head Start (HS) programs in the inclusion of children with suspected or diagnosed disabilities and their families through staff training and technical assistance. A strong focus on diversity, equity and inclusion, and a desire to advance Erikson’s mission of serving young children and their families, is essential for success in the role.

THIS POSITION IS CONTINGENT UPON AVAILABILITY OF GRANT OR CONTRACT FUNDS. IF THE FUNDS FROM THE GRANT OR CONTRACT THAT PROVIDE FUNDING FOR THIS POSITION ARE NO LONGER AVAILABLE, THIS POSITION MAY BE TERMINATED WITHOUT CAUSE UPON WRITTEN NOTICE. 

Roles and Responsibilities  

• Establish regular communication with disabilities services staff, primarily through on-site meetings, to assess and respond to ongoing needs of support for staff and families. 

• Develop and facilitate training to staff on disabilities-related topics to be provided at the site, delegate agency, and grantee level. 

• Provide technical assistance on disabilities services issues to assigned agencies and maintain reports, tracking, and other associated documentation. 

• Promote the school readiness of children with suspected or diagnosed disabilities ensuring that programs are inclusive, lesson plans follow developmentally appropriate practices, and are individualized to meet children’s needs. 

• Coordinate with Early Intervention and the Local Education Agency (Chicago Public Schools) to ensure children and families are supported through a referral, evaluation and service delivery system to identify infants, toddlers and preschoolers with disabilities and/or developmental delays and secure services. 

• Collaborate with program staff of grantees by participating in disabilities consultants’ meetings, committee meetings, and workshops. 

• Contribute to the development and updating of policies and related program materials, as requested.  

• Attend required Erikson meetings and prepare for and participate in additional projects as needed by the Program Coordinator and/or the Director for the Erikson Center for Children and Families.

Required Qualifications 

• Master’s degree in child development or related field 

• Minimum of five years of experience working with children aged birth to five and their families, particularly those receiving Early Intervention and/or Early Childhood Special Education services. 

• Knowledge of, and experience working with, developmental screening tools and assessments. 

• Ability to work in a complex and non-traditional service setting with a diverse population.  

• Effective communication skills, both oral and written, and strong organizational, problem-solving, and time-management skills. 

• Ability to work independently while also being a team player. 

• Ability to use MS Office and have the skills to learn new technology. 

• Regular access to a reliable vehicle and a valid Illinois driver’s license.  

• Ability to adjust work schedule to conduct occasional evening or weekend trainings.

Preferred Qualifications 

• Early Intervention provider credential 

• Bilingual and proficient in reading, writing, and speaking Spanish.

ABOUT ERIKSON INSTITUTE

We are the premier early childhood development organization committed to ensuring that all children have equitable opportunities to realize their potential.

Erikson Institute’s graduate school uniquely prepares child development, education, and social work leaders to improve the lives of young children and their families. Our impact and influence are further amplified through our innovative academic programs, applied research, direct services in the community, and advocacy and policy and leadership. 

Erikson Institute is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, age, disability, veteran status, or any other classes protected by federal, state, or local laws. In addition, Erikson Institute provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans With Disabilities Act and applicable state and local laws (including during the application or hiring process).

To learn more, please visit our web site at www.erikson.edu