The Y in Central Maryland·Maryland
The Early Intervention Specialist coordinates special education and behavioral health services for children with developmental needs across Head Start programs. They partner with families, teachers, and community agencies to manage IEP/IFSP processes and ensure inclusive classroom environments.
Overwhelmingly, people who decide they want to be a part of the Y in Central Maryland tell us they do so because it reflects their values and a conscious decision, they’ve made about how they choose to live their lives. The happiest and most fulfilled Y associates are those who are motivated to help others and who want to be a part of something larger than themselves. If this speaks to your heart, then we invite you to join our team. Be a part of a charitable, mission-driven organization that works for individual and community well-being for all, for a better us.
At the Y in Central Maryland, we offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth.
Enjoy flexible schedules, competitive pay, and generous paid time off, alongside medical, dental and vision benefits, as well as dependent care FSA.
We offer a generous employer contribution to the Y retirement fund, and opportunities for career advancement.
Our commitment to fostering a positive work environment means you'll have access to training and development programs that align with our mission to empower individuals and strengthen communities.
Join us and bring your passion to a fulfilling career where you can truly make a difference!
How this work contributes to the Y’s mission As an Early Intervention Specialist, you will help ensure children with diversabilities, developmental concerns, behavioral needs, and mental health needs have the individualized support they need to learn, grow, and thrive.
You will partner with families, teachers, mental health professionals, Local Education Agencies (LEAs), and community providers to coordinate early intervention and special education services across our Head Start and Early Head Start programs.
You will support families through the referral, assessment, IEP/IFSP, and transition processes while helping teachers create inclusive environments where every child can participate and succeed.
In this role, you will: Coordinate diversability, early intervention, behavioral, and mental health services for children and families.
Support IEP/IFSP referrals, assessments, services, follow-up, and transitions.
Help families understand available services and advocate for their child’s needs.
Partner with teachers to develop strategies and accommodations that support children in the classroom.
Coordinate with LEAs, Part B/Part C agencies, mental health providers, and other community partners.
Monitor referrals, services, outcomes, documentation, and program data.
Ensure services meet Head Start, IDEA, ADA, and Maryland OCC requirements.
Coordinate and monitor services provided by mental health and special education consultants.
This work is right for you if you have: A Bachelor’s degree in Early Intervention, Special Education, Child Development, or a related field; a related Master’s degree is preferred.
Knowledge of Head Start Program Performance Standards and Maryland OCC regulations; Head Start/Early Head Start experience is preferred.
Experience supporting children with diversabilities, developmental delays, behavioral needs, or mental health concerns.
Knowledge of IEPs, IFSPs, IDEA, and early intervention or special education services.
Strong communication, organization, and relationship-building skills.
The ability to partner effectively with families, educators, clinicians, and community agencies.
A valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
Current or ability to obtain required CPR, First Aid, and Medication Administration certifications.
All Y associates agree to abide by The Code of Conduct with Youth that sets clear expectations for associates and volunteers to ensure a safe and respectful environment for young people.
It emphasizes treating youth with respect and fairness, avoiding inappropriate physical or verbal interactions, and adhering to established standards of affection.
The policy strictly prohibits any form of abuse, bullying, or harassment and mandates the reporting of suspected mistreatment.
Additionally, associates and volunteers must complete training on child abuse prevention and comply with legal reporting requirements to safeguard youth.
Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree in Early Intervention, Special Education, or a related field, with a Master’s degree preferred. Applicants should have experience supporting children with developmental delays and possess knowledge of IDEA, ADA, and Head Start performance standards.
Market context
In Maryland, Early Intervention Specialist roles are typically driven by ongoing demand for services that support young children with developmental delays and family-centered care. Competition often comes from candidates who pair a relevant bachelor’s degree with experience in IDEA, ADA, and Head Start standards, while a master’s degree can strengthen an application. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save research time, then tailor your resume to show direct developmental support experience and familiarity with early childhood compliance.