Who We Are

Through our program, we provide evidence-based training, coaching, and resources—at no cost—to early childhood centers and home-based providers. Our goal is to increase the number of high-quality early childhood programs equipped with the training, coaching, and data tools needed to ensure children are safe, supported, and prepared for kindergarten.

This support strengthens both center quality and educator effectiveness, ensuring every child has an equal opportunity for success.

Job Summary

The Administrative Support Specialist plays a key role in strengthening program quality and operational efficiency by providing high-level administrative and coordination support to the Quality Manager and Program Team.

This role connects internal systems with external program implementation, ensuring childcare centers receive consistent, timely, and well-coordinated support as they work toward and maintain high-quality standards, including national accreditation.

The position is responsible for managing critical administrative functions such as data tracking and reporting, while also serving as a point of contact for accreditation renewals. By building strong relationships with providers, this role supports scheduling and coordination of on-site visits, practice-based coaching, and overall program quality improvement.

Position Overview

The Administrative Support Specialist plays a critical role in strengthening childcare center program quality and operational efficiency by providing high-level administrative and coordination support to the Quality Manager and Program Team. This position is responsible for managing administrative systems, maintaining accurate and up-to-date data, supporting reporting processes, and assisting with technical coordination for classroom and center-level support.

This role serves as a key connector between data, compliance, and program implementation; ensuring that childcare centers receive timely, organized, and effective support as they work toward and maintain high-quality standards, including national accreditation.

This position ensures quality continuity, strengthens relationships with partner centers, and allows program leadership to focus on strategic priorities while maintaining high-quality execution across all areas of work.

Position Duties & Responsibilities

• Manage time effectively and utilize tools such as Outlook to organize and support assigned centers
• Implement coaching and mentoring strategies that promote high-quality childcare practices
• Build and maintain strong relationships with center leaders and educators
• Support centers in pursuing and maintaining NAC/NAEYC accreditation using EFS assessment tools
• Collaborate on individualized plans outlining site visits, professional development, and administrative support
• Coordinate scheduling, logistics, and follow-up for classroom support and technical assistance
• Participate in monthly all-staff and program team meetings, including facilitating portions as needed
• Track and document all technical assistance activities, including visits, coaching sessions, and outcomes
• Support annual reporting efforts and identify accreditation readiness through data collection and analysis
• Maintain regular communication with supervisors and escalate complex issues as needed
• Coordinate on-site visits, meetings, and support sessions using appropriate tools and systems
• Perform additional duties as assigned

Required Skills & Abilities

• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to effectively engage with individuals from diverse backgrounds
• Self-directed with the ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Detail-oriented and team-focused with a commitment to the organization’s mission

Additional Requirements

• Valid Texas driver’s license and current auto insurance
• Successful completion of a comprehensive background check
• Reliable transportation for travel throughout the metroplex
• Availability to work occasional evenings and weekends (including one weeknight in February and one weekend in April)

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree, or at least 2 years of experience as a Center Director and willingness to complete a bachelor’s degree within 3–5 years
• Minimum of 2 years of relevant experience in early childhood, mentoring, or education
• Knowledge of child development and effective teaching practices

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in instructional coaching, preferably in early childhood settings
• Experience as a Childcare Center Director or Assistant Director
• Familiarity with national accreditation processes, particularly NAC
• Knowledge of QRIS systems, including Texas Rising Stars (TRS), CLASS, ITERS, and ECERS

Employee Total Rewards & Perks

• Multiple health insurance plan options (partially or fully employer-funded)
• 401(k) with employer match
• Paid time off, including 13 holidays
• Up to 4 weeks of additional seasonal paid time off
• Remote work and flexible scheduling options
• Phone stipend
• Employer-paid professional development

Compensation

$60,000

Working Conditions

This role involves extended periods of sitting, standing, and computer work, as well as frequent phone communication with providers. Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Educational First Steps is committed to equal employment opportunity. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, marital status, citizenship, genetic information, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.