Employment

Employment Opportunities

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Full-Time Position Available (posted 4/23/24)
Head Start Center Teacher
This position is primarily responsible for the classroom and implementing curriculum based on knowledge of families' and children's needs and interests. Work with parents to assure that the educational, health and social services needs of individual children and their families are met. Work with component coordinators to assure planning, organization, implementation and follow-through with comprehensive services, curriculum, Performance Standards, MN DHS Rule 3, and best practices in early childhood care and education.
REQUIRED SKILLS:
Passion for working with children ages 3 to 5 years old and their families. Ability to create age approriate stimulating learning opportunities. Strong classroom management skills. Knowledge of the principles of child development. Strong communication skills, both orally and in writing. Ability to maintain accurate records and to work without direct supervision. Ability to lift and carry suppllies. Confidentiality.
*Recruit eligible families on an ongoing basis and during recruitment time and complete Agency/Program intake process;
*Document recruiting efforts including public relations for the Agency and Head Start;
*Carry assigned caseload of families, providing services as required by Head Start and MN State Licensing Rule 3;
*Recruit classroom volunteers on an ongoing basis;
*Meet with parents to complete Welcome Packet prior to Open House;
*Work with parents and Assistant Teacher to screen and assess children using MPSIR, ASQ-SE, and other tools;
*Responsible for Creative Curriculum implementation and individulization of instruction based upon TS Gold assessment results;
*Utilize C.L.A.S.S. strategies appropriately in the classroom to create an optimal learning environment;
*Integrate regular music, movement, and outdoor/active play into the classroom day;
*Complete Family Partnership Agreement Packets, by interviewing, seeting family and child goals and making appropriate referrals with enrolled families;
*Lead and oversee the teaching of safety, health, dental, nutrition, self-help, self-esteem, social, language, literacy, problem solving, coginitive, and motor skills in the classroom;
*Implement and model appropriate behavior guidance practices;
*Participate in the IEP, IFPS, and/or IIIP process for serving children with special needs and implementation of appropriate plan;
*Document attendance and all activities used in statistical analysis and submit to the coordinators any prescribed forms consistently, correctly, and promptly;
*Responsible for meal counts at point of service;
*Responsible for referral of behavioral, health, education, mental health, and social service concerns to appropriate coordinator;
*Work with appropriate coordinators to assure planning and follow through regarding educational or social issues;
*Supervise work of classroom staff and volunteers including training and implementation of bus riding curriculum;
*Provide parent and child education regarding safety, health and nutrition;
*Plan and conduct required parent meetings and update parents on program-related events;
*Provide leadership and parenting training to parents;
*Work with transportation coordinator and families to arrange transportation for Head Start families to attend activities, riding bus as needed;
*Serve as the liaison/advocate between parent, school, and community resources;
*Understand and follow the Child Abuse and Prevention policy of Head Start as a mandated reporter;
*Maintain iventory of supplies and equipment, and submit requisition needs to appropriate Coordinator;
*Assure election and attendance of one or two parents and up to two alternates to the Head Start Parent Policy Council;
*Work with the Parent Policy Council representatives to provide opportunities for regular feedback to the parent group meeting;
OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
*Participate in training, in-service, orientation, and Community of Practice workgroup;
*Complete Professional Development Plan and update regularly;
*Follow all procedures of the Minnesota Data Privacy Act;
*Be a part of the Head Start team, accepting and performing duties as assigned;
*Promote positive community awareness of Head Start and Southwestern MN Opportunity Council, Inc.
This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive, and employee will also perform other reasonably related business duties as assigned by superviosry personnel.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:
This individual must meet Head Start Teacher qualifications in the program standards; which is a Bachelor's degree (B.A.) OR A.A. in Early Childhood Education or related field with experience in teaching in a preschool setting.
"SMOC IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER"

**NEW 4/16/2024**
Family Planning - Community Health Worker (CHW)
Marshall, MN
Community Health Worker (CHW) Bilingual in English and Spanish - Full-time, benefit eligible position for our expanding Sexual and Reproductive Health Services (SRHS) Programming in our Marshall, Minnesota office for Southwestern Minnesota Opportunity Council, Inc. (SMOC).
Community Health Worker (CHW) will assist clients by reducing cultural and linguistic barriers while navigating health care systems within the SMOC programs and other community programs. The CHW will work in collaboration with SHRS staff to improve quality outcomes and cost-effective care of underserved populations to reduce health disparities. The CHW must be a bilingual person in English and Spanish, trusted in their community and comfortable among all populations to build trusting relationships with families and community. Confidentiality, verbal and written communication skills and ability to be resourceful and motivated to empower clients for self-advocacy is key. Currently, programs include Sexual and Reproductive Heatlh programming assistance for clients, Opioid education and grant work in our northern counties to include Lyon and Redwood, assisting with education for prevention and reducing sexually transmitted diseases. Experience helpful, traning provided as needed to perform the job to help bridge gaps and improve health equity for all persons served.
Marshall will be the home office for CHW. Some travel is required. Must have valid driver's license and reliable transportation. Current CHW Certificate required or the ability to obtain CHW Certificate within 18-24 months of hire, dependent on class offerings for completion. Tuition support for CHW courses may be available if certification is needed. On the job training is also offered. Course work and position designed for the right candidate with a High School diploma or GED. Understanding of electronic medical record and computer software is helpful.
A SMOC application form must be completed. Please call 1-800-658-2444 or visit our website at www.smoc.us to request/access an application. Position open until filled.
Send completed application and resume to:
Terri Janssen, Health Services Director
SMOC Family Planning - STD Clinics
909 4th Avenue
Worthington, MN 56187
tjanssen@smoc.us
SMOC Is An Equal Opportunity Employer.
Reasonable accommodation for special needs will be furnished upon request.
"AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER"

**NEW 4/16/2024**
Family Planning - Community Health Worker (CHW)
Worthington, MN
Community Health Worker (CHW) Bilingual in English and Spanish - Full-time, benefit eligible position for our expanding Sexual and Reproductive Health Services (SRHS) Programming in our Worthington, Minnesota office for Southwestern Minnesota Opportunity Council, Inc. (SMOC).
Community Health Worker (CHW) will assist clients by reducing cultural and linguistic barriers while navigating health care systems within the SMOC programs and other community programs. The CHW will work in collaboration with SHRS staff to improve quality outcomes and cost-effective care of underserved populations to reduce health disparities. The CHW must be a bilingual person in English and Spanish, trusted in their community and comfortable among all populations to build trusting relationships with families and community. Confidentiality, verbal and written communication skills and ability to be resourceful and motivated to empower clients for self-advocacy is key. Currently, programs include Sexual and Reproductive Heatlh programming assistance for clients, assisting with education for prevention and reducing sexually transmitted diseases and teen pregnancy. Experience helpful, training provided as needed to perform the job to help bridge gaps and improve health equity for all persons served.
Worthington will be the home office for this CHW. Some travel is required. Must have valid driver's licesne and reliable transportation. Current CHW Certificate required or the ability to obtain CHW Certificate within 18-24 months of hire, dependent on class offerings for completion. Tuition support for CHW courses may be available if certification is needed. On the job training is also offered. Course work and position designed for the right candidate with a High School diploma or GED. Understanding of electronic medical record and computer software is helpful.
A SMOC application form must be completed. Please call 1-800-658-2444 or visit our website at www.smoc.us to request/access an application. Position open until filled.
Send completed application and resume to:
Terri Janssen, Health Services Director
SMOC Family Planning - STD Clinics
909 4th Avenue
Worthington, MN 56187
tjanssen@smoc.us

SMOC Is An Equal Opportunity Employer.
Reasonable accommodation for special needs
will be furnished upon request.
"AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER"

**NEW 4/16/2024**
Prairieland Transit System
*Dispatch Coordinator*

Southwestern MN Opportunity Council (SMOC), a non-profit organization, is seeking a full-time (40 hours per week) Prairieland Transit System Dispatch Coordinator at the SMOC office located in Worthington.

This position is responsible for dispatch and daily administration duties within the Prairieland Transit System. Duties include receiving and scheduling requests for public transportation; working with bus drivers to schedule passenger trips; preparing and reconciling bus driver daily passenger sheets; maintaining a rider database; assisting in the implementation of MNDOT program policies; technical assistance with passengers, staff, and community members; data management and record keeping for public transportation in Nobles County.

Minimum requirements include a high school diploma or equivalent with 1-year experience in leadership and/or customer service. A 2-year degree in public policy, human services, business, or related field is preferred. Individuals who are bilingual are encouraged to apply.

This is a full-time (40 hours/week), on-site position. Starting hourly wage is $19.93. Benefit package includes PTO, paid holidays, and available health, life, dental and vision insurance.

Interested individuals should submit an application to the Human Resources Director by Friday, May 3^rd. Application forms are available at SMOC, 1106 3^rd Avenue, Worthington, on our website at www.smoc.us, or by calling 507-376-4195. Applications are accepted via email to kbursell@smoc.us, fax (507)376-3636, or can be dropped off at the SMOC Worthington office.

SMOC Is An Equal Opportunity Employer.
Reasonable accommodation for special needs
will be furnished upon request.
"AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER"

**Position Available**
Part-Time Head Start Home Visitor
Pipestone, MN
JOB SUMMARY:
Assisting parents in the role as their child's first and most important teacher. Starting pay is $17.05 / hour.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Home Visitor
Provides early, continuous, intensive and comprehensive child development and family support services that will enhance the physical, social, emotional, and intellecutal development of children.
Work with parents with children and prenatal visits to expecting parents.
Perform home visits with families in their homes.
Work with supervisor to coordinate community and agency resources to ensure comprehensive for the family.
Maintain up-to-date documentation with each family that complies with regulations.
Provide interpretation and translation services to families as needed.
Participates in Head Start recruitment, advocacy and parent involvement activies as required.
Adheres to the Head Start Performance Standard.

NON-ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Other duties and responsibilities:
Participates in trainings, In-service, orientations,
Completes professional development plan, as updated regularly,
Follow all procedures of the Minnesota Privacy Act,
Be a part of the Head Start team, accepting and performing duties as assigned,
Promotes positive Community Awareness of Head Start and SMOC.
Performs other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE:
High School Diploma or equivalent required.
Infant-Toddler CDA, Family Service Credential, or willingness to obtain within first year of hire is required.
Growing Great Kids / Growing Great Families certification or willingness to obtain.
Parent or past parent of Head Start children preferred.
Have a valid drivers license and up-to-date insurance on their vehicle (a driver report will be requested with our insurance company).
CPR / First Aid certified or willingness to obtain.
SKILLS / ABILITIES:
Bilingual skills strongly preferred.
Ability to work with parents and 0-3 age children.
Ability to take directions from supervisor.
Ability to lift and carry supplies.
Confidentiality.
Open until filled.  Application forms are available at SMOC, 1106 3rd Avenue, PO Box 787, Worthington, MN 56187 and online at www.smoc.us
Please submit application and resume to Barb Austin - Head Start Director.
  SMOC Is An Equal Opportunity Employer.
Reasonable accommodation for special needs
will be furnished upon request.
  "AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER"

**Position Available**
Head Start Classroom Aide / Bus Rider
Pipestone, MN
JOB SUMMARY:
Assisting parents in the role as their child's first and most important teacher by assisting the teacher with various activities at the center and on field trips. In addition, being responsible for assisting inthe transportation of children to and from the center and on field trips, assisting the driver, and adhering to transportation guidelines. Starting pay is $15.29 / hour.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Bus Rider Aide
Provides on-going education on safety of children being transported; completes with assistance of bus driver three bus evacuation drills per program year.
Adheres to established procedures and policies as outlined in the tranpsortation manual and personnel policies.
Uses the effective and developmentally appropriate behavior management techniques with children to maintain order on the bus at all times.
Assures safe transportation of all Head Start children, staff and volunteers
Attends transportation meetings and trainings
Provides assistance to bus driver as requested
Classroom Aide
Participates in group activities providing assistance to teachers as requested
Ensures the safety of children at all times.
Provides assitance to the teacher with their curriculum adn behavior management.
Insures the cooperative play and positive reinforcement of the children.
Prepares for and helps with the departure of children.
Chaperones field trips.
Interpret for children, families and teachers in the classroom, during home visits, parent night meetings, parent teacher conferences, etc necessary.
Participates in Head Start recruitment, advocacy adn parent involvement activities as required.
Adheres to the Head Start Performance Standard.
NON-ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Other Duties and Responsibilities:
Particpates in trainings, Inservice, orientations,
Completes professional development plan, as updated regularly,
Follow all procedures of the Minnesota Privacy Act,
Be a part of the Head Start team, accepting and performing duties as assigned
Promotes positive Community Awareness of Head Start and SMOC
Performs other duties as assigned.
EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE:
High School Diploma, Child Development Associate credential, or willingness to obtain credential or Associate Degree
Parent or past parent of Head Start child preferred.
SKILLS / ABILITIES:
Bilingual skills not required, but preferred
Ability to work with 3-5 year-old children
Ability to take directions from supervisor
Ability to lift and carry supplies
Confidentiality
Open until filled.  Application forms are available at SMOC, 1106 3rd Avenue, PO Box 787, Worthington, MN 56187 and online at www.smoc.us Please submit application and resume to Barb Austin - Head Start Director.
  SMOC Is An Equal Opportunity Employer.
Reasonable accommodation for special needs
will be furnished upon request.
  "AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER"

**Position Available**
Part-Time Head Start Bus Driver
Worthington, MN
JOB SUMMARY:
Approximately 20 hours/week. Assisting parents in the role as their child's first and most important teacher by operating the bus safely, relating effectively to parents and to the children being transported, and responding effectively to emergency situations. Bus drivers are supported by a rider who helps ensure safe and timely travel. Compensation is $20.49/hour.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Assures the safe transportation of all Head Start children (ages 3-5), staff and volunteers.
Follows all agency and state rules and federal regulations regarding transportation; abides by all highway laws; practices safe driving procedures.
Adheres to established procedures and policies as outlined in the transportation manual and personnel policies.
Maintains vehicle in a condition that provides complete safety for children, staff, and volunteers.
Keeps bus locked at all appropriate times.
Provides ongoing education on safety of children being transported; completes three bus evacuation drills per program year.
Uses effective and developmentally approriate discipline techniques with children to maintain order on the bus at all times.
Maintains and submits timely, complete, and accurate records as indicated on the driver's timeline.
Arranges working hours to include those resulting from schedule changes; attends transportation/staff meetings, trainings, and workshops.
Participates in mandatory pre-employment adn ongoing drug and alcohol testing procedures.
Manages the transportation system providing all information necessary to parents and staff.
Participates in field trips providing assistance to teachers as requested.
Adheres to the Head Start Performance Standards.
Assists with other duties as assigned.
EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE:
High School diploma or GED preferred but not required.
Must possess a Class C driver's license with passenger endorsement (CDL/P) and car insurance.
Prior experience transporting children in a similar setting preferred.
SKILLS / ABILITIES:
In order to carry out the responsiblities, bus driver's will have the skills or training in these areas:
Traffic and safety laws,
First Aid and CPR
Daily maintenance checks, record-keeping, understanding child behavior, constructive discipline, and defensive driving skills.
Ability to life 40-60 pounds and carry children
Ability to submit accurate and timely data
Flexibility
Good oral communication skills
Deal with all kinds of people, often working with distractions.
Open until filled.  Application forms are available at SMOC, 1106 3rd Avenue, PO Box 787, Worthington, MN 56187 and online at www.smoc.us Please submit application and resume to:
Barb Austin - Head Start Director
1077 Pleasant Avenue
PO Box 787
Worthington, MN 56187
  SMOC Is An Equal Opportunity Employer.
Reasonable accommodation for special needs
will be furnished upon request.
  "AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER"

Help Wanted
SMOC Family Planning
Mid-Level Provider - Nurse Practitioner
Mid-Level Provider-Nurse Practitioner, Physician Assistant or Certified Nurse Midwife for busy, expanding clinic specializing in Reproductive and Sexual Health care. Provider(s) will perform well woman exams, provide care, with the assistance of clinic staff, for sexually transmitted infections, treatments, referrals and birth control.
Position in the Family Planning program at Southwestern Minnesota Opportunity Council (SMOC) is part time with the possibility of full time. SMOC service area is 15 counties in SW Minnesota. Bilingual communication preferred or the ability to work with interpretive services required.
Duties include culturally appropriate care on assigned clinic days, patient education, lab functions, inventory control, record maintenance, and other nursing and office duties as appropriate. Mandated annual training is also required as directed by the health plans for provider. Applicants must have highly organized and detail oriented work skills. The position duties occur at current SMOC clinics in Marshall, Worthington and Redwood Falls outreach clinics. Travel is necessary according to assigned clinic. Current MN Driver's License, CPR Certification, and Minnesota Licensure is required for this position.
A SMOC application form must be completed. Please call 507-376-4195 or 1-800-658-2444 to request an application. This position is open until filled. Please send resume, cover letter, and completed application to:
Terri Janssen - Health Services Director
Southwestern Minnesota Opportunity Council, Inc.
909 4th Avenue
Worthington, MN 56187

SMOC Is An Equal Opportunity Employer.
Reasonable accommodation for special needs
will be furnished upon request.
"AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER"

Notice of Job Opening
Prairieland Transit System
Substitute and Part-Time Public Transit Bus Drivers
Southwestern Minnesota Opportunity Council (SMOC), a non-profit organization, is currently accepting applications for Substitute Part-Time Bus Drivers for Prairieland Transit System (public transit for Nobles County).
Drivers operate a 15-18 passenger bus to transport passengers on a public transit routes and demand response throughout the City of Worthington Monday-Friday as well as county routes throughout Nobles County; Part-Time driver hours are flexible. No evening or weekend hours.
Minimum requirements include:
the ability to attain a CDL with passenger endorsement (not necessary for hire - can obtain during employment)the ability to lift and carry packages up to 30 pounds in weight
the ability to operate and maintain a wheel chair lift
the ability to communicate with a large diversity of clients including persons with disabilities, elderly, children, and persons with limited English
the ability to complete forms, documentation, and required paperwork
Must pass pre-employment Drug Test (subject to random Drug and Alcohol Testing thereafter). DOT medical examination required upon hire and current certification must be maintained.
Starting wage $19.07/hour. Application forms are available at SMOC, 1106 3rd Avenue, PO Box 787, Worthington, MN 56187 and online at www.smoc.us. Please submit an agency application and resume to Executive Director (Faxes accepted: 507-376-3636). Substitute and back-up driver applications will be accepted until positions are filled.
SMOC Is An Equal Opportunity Employer.
Reasonable accommodation for special needs
will be furnished upon request.
"AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER"

**Notice of Job Opening**
Prairieland Transit System Central Dispatch Staff
Substitute/Back up ONLY
Southwestern Minnesota Opportunity Council (SMOC), a non-profit organization, is seeking a substitute dispatch staff at the SMOC office located in Worthington, MN for the Prairieland Transit System.
This position fills in intermittently during other dispatch staff vacancies (ie, vacations). Receives and schedules requests for public transportation in Nobles County (Worthington City Bus, Worthington Dial-A-Ride, Nobles County Heartland Express Routes) working closely with the general public and the Prairieland Transit System bus drivers. Daily record keeping and data entry into computerized databases are required. Central dispatch staff assist in the implementation of MNDOT policies and procedures.
Minimum requirements include a high school diploma and one year of office experience. Bilingual skills beneficial. Good computer knowledge essential. This position requires a candidate with excellent telephone skills to communicate with a large diversity of clients including persons with disabilities, elderly, children, and persons with limited English. Must be able to work independently and as a team.
Starting wage $16.91/hour. Application forms are available at SMOC, 1106 3rd Avenue, PO Box 787, Worthington, MN 56187 and online at www.smoc.us. Please submit an agency application and resume to Executive Director. (Faxes accepted: 507-376-3636). This position will be opened until filled.

SMOC Is An Equal Opportunity Employer.
Reasonable accommodation for special needs
will be furnished upon request.
"AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER"

Homemaker

We are seeking caring and reliable individuals
for Homemaking Services in the
Nobles, Rock, Cottonwood, and Jackson County areas.

Homemakers assist clients with homemaking duties such as: cleaning and laundry.

Homemakers must have reliable transportation
Application Deadline: Ongoing

$14.50 / hour with Flexible hours
Ask for Marlen: 507-376-4195
Southwestern Minnesota Opportunity Council, Inc.
1106 3rd Avenue
Worthington, MN 56187
Telephone Number - 507-376-4195 or Toll Free 1-800-658-2444
TTY - 507-372-7279
www.smoc.us
"AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER"