CONNECTICUT INSTITUTE FOR COMMUNITIES INC·Danbury, Connecticut
The position is responsible for assisting 1-2 classrooms in planning and implementing classroom routines, curriculum, meals, and related activities for preschool and/or infant toddler children aged 6 months to 5 years. This role serves as an aid in a classroom setting and assists in the core functions of the Head Start program.
Description CIFC's Danbury Early Learning Programs are looking to fill the position of Child Development Associate (CDA) Specialist.
The position is responsible for assisting 1-2 classrooms in planning and implementing classroom routines, curriculum, meals, and related activities for pre-school and/or infant toddler children (ages 6 months-5 years). This position serves as the aid in a classroom of 14 to 20 Head Start /Preschool children and/or 7-8 Infant/Toddler children. This position is chiefly responsible to assist in the core functions of the Head Start program and performs other tasks as needed.
CDA Specialists work under the direction of 1-2 assigned Lead Teacher(s) and is supervised by the Education Services Professional.
Early Learning Immediate Supervisor: Education Services Professional Classification: Standard / Full Time (1.0 FTE) or Part-Time (Hourly) Schedule: 9:45 AM-5:45 PM or 2:45-5:45 PM (Monday - Friday) Status: Non-Exempt Directly Supervises: None
18+ years old, required. Entry level position; previous babysitting or childcare experience is preferred. Basic computer experience is required (i.e. email, word processing, internet navigation). Bilingual candidates strongly encouraged to apply. Applicants with multiple language capabilities (English, Spanish, and/or Portuguese) are preferred. Minimum High School Diploma or GED equivalent is required (completed or currently enrolled). Child Development Associate (CDA) Certificate or a commitment to obtain a CDA within 1 year of employment is required (paid by the employer) is required. Early Childhood Education Credits are preferred; and/or Associate and/or Bachelor degrees are preferred. Health Requirements: Recent fit for duty Health examination. Ability to lift 40 lbs. Competitive compensation, plus comprehensive fringe benefits package including paid holidays, paid time off, health, dental, vision coverage and retirement program.
Closing Date: Open Until Filled
Market context
In Connecticut, preschool classroom aide and CDA specialist roles are often tied to steady demand in early childhood settings, where programs need staff who can support classroom routines and child development. These positions are competitive because employers commonly look for a high school diploma or GED plus a CDA credential, or a clear plan to earn one; in this posting, the employer will pay for the CDA within one year. Before applying, confirm your age, diploma status, and willingness to complete the CDA, and use the platform’s AI-summarized requirements and benefits to quickly compare this role with others without reading every original posting.