Literacy Program Assistant/Driver

Program Overview

The Baby Institute’s Parent and Caregiver Workshop is an intensive program that provides curriculum for parents and caregivers on various early childhood topics (like brain development, nutrition, and reading techniques) that help support household literacy - a key indicator of academic success and stability in adulthood. Families from Albany’s most underserved neighborhoods, like West Hill, Arbor Hill, and the South End, receive transportation to and from the program as well as breakfast, lunch, and snacks. Parents and caregivers work with instructors, while children engage in literacy activities with staff in a safe, separate space. The program takes place over 9 Saturdays starting September 21 through mid-November.

Job Overview

The Baby Institute is now seeking 1-2 dedicated individuals to join our team as Program Assistants, providing support and assistance for the Workshop with a focus on the children’s program and transportation. On Saturdays between 8am and 3 pm, the Assistant will engage children in literacy-building activities while parents work with instructors. In addition, the Assistant will utilize the organization's 12-passenger van (no CDL license needed) for morning pick-up and afternoon drop-off, communicating with families ahead of time to ensure attendance and timeliness. The role requires enthusiastic engagement, punctuality, and strong communication, as well as the ability to work effectively within a team environment. Workshops take place three times during the year and if the candidate is a good fit, the position can be extended to 2025 programming.

Duties include:

• Work with staff to conduct age-appropriate literacy-focused activities including: reading & math, literacy-building puzzles and games, tactile/gross motor skills, outdoor/physical activities
• Provide safe transportation to and from the program site for participating families; morning pick-up between 8 and 9 am, afternoon drop-off between 1 and 2 pm
• Communicate with program participants on Thursdays & Fridays to ensure readiness and attendance on Saturdays
• Communicate with program staff on timing, participant needs/behavior, and attendance
• Interact with participating families in respectful and supportive ways
• Create a positive and engaging learning environment for children
• Communicate promptly and clearly with supervisors on any disruptive issues.

Core Competencies/Qualifications:

• A clean driving record is crucial; candidates are asked to submit their DMV abstract
• Experience working with children and/or families is highly preferred
• Candidate should have a smartphone for navigation services and communication with participants and staff.

Also important;

• Strong organizational, teamwork, and time management skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Interest in early childhood literacy and fostering a love for reading
• First Aid and CPR certification is a plus

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $17.00 - $20.00 per hour

Expected hours: 7 – 10 per week

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Every weekend

Application Question(s):

• The job requires an early Saturday morning start. Will you be available and alert enough to drive safely with passengers including children?
• Do you have an interest in early childhood literacy?
• Do you have a clean driving record?

Experience:

• Experience with children: 1 year (Required)

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $17 - $20