Graduate Assistant - The Children's House

TO APPLY:  

In order to be considered for this position please submit 1.) resume, 2.) cover letter, 3.) unofficial transcripts 4.) three references 5.) writing sample/diversity statement to andria.swafford@mnsu.edu.

APPLICATION CLOSE DATE: December 1, 2024

POSITION START DATE: January 12, 2025

RESPONSIBILITIES/JOB DESCRIPTION: 

- Support The Children's House (TCH) director in onboarding and training new staff, ensuring a smooth orientation process. 
- Manage and update the D2L platform and training materials to maintain relevance and accessibility. 
- Assist in maintaining compliance with DHS licensing requirements, including accurate data entry and document management within the DHS Provider Hub.
- Provide oversight and leadership for kitchen operations, including training and supervising kitchen staff to ensure high standards of food service and safety. 
- Step into classroom roles as needed to maintain appropriate staffing ratios and support children’s learning and well-being.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS: 

• A Bachelor's Degree
• Ability to pass a background check as required by DHS and state regulations.
• Completion of all required training mandated by DHS and state regulations.
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to mentor, guide, and support staff effectively.
• Proficiency in data entry.
• Flexibility to work in classrooms as needed to maintain staffing ratios.
• Dedication to upholding high standards of safety, compliance, and quality care.
• CPR and First Aid Certification or willingness to obtain.
• Admitted to a Minnesota State University, Mankato graduate program by start date.
• Enrolled in a minimum of six (6) graduate credits per semester during assistantship, and in good academic standing.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field.
• Knowledge of best practices in child development and classroom management.
• Experience in food service operations or kitchen oversight.
• Demonstrated commitment to fostering a diverse working and learning environment.

SALARY/STIPEND: Stipend of $2500 (10hrs/week) for each semester, as well as a tuition waiver for 6 credits.  Appointments made after the tenth day of classes are not eligible for a tuition waiver.  

RELATED INFORMATION: 

The Children’s House is an on-campus child development center serving as a premier lab school, fostering hands-on learning for both children and early childhood education students. We offer full-day care for children from six weeks of age until they transition to kindergarten. Conveniently located in the Wiecking building, our center provides a nurturing and stimulating environment where young learners can safely explore, discover, and grow. At TCH, we are dedicated to supporting each child’s development, laying the foundation for lifelong learning through enriching experiences during their crucial early years.

Minnesota State System policy requires that graduate assistants must reside within the State of Minnesota for the duration of their appointment. 

Additional information on Minnesota State University, Mankato can be found at www.mnsu.edu. 

CONTACT 

Andria Swafford, Director

The Children's House   

Minnesota State University, Mankato 

WC 150 

Mankato, MN 56001 

Phone: 507-389-1646 

TTY: 800-627-3529 or 711 

Email: andria.swafford@mnsu.edu 

NOTICE:  

In accordance with the Minnesota State Colleges & Universities (MnSCU) Vehicle Fleet Safety Program, employees driving on college/university business who use a rental or state vehicle, shall be required to conform to MnSCU’s vehicle use criteria and consent to a Motor Vehicle Records check.  

The Minnesota State University, Mankato Annual Security and Fire Safety Report is available for your review. This report is required by federal law and contains policy statements and crime statistics for the University. The policy statements address the school's policies, procedures, and programs concerning safety and security. Three years' worth of statistics are included for certain types of crimes that were reported to have occurred on-campus, or in other University affiliated locations. This report is available online at http://www.mnsu.edu/safety/. You may also request a paper copy from University Security at 507-389-2111 or by emailing security@mnsu.edu. 

Minnesota State University, Mankato has a long-standing commitment to diversity and is actively seeking to nurture and enrich its underrepresented communities. Women, minorities, veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. In accordance with USCIS regulations, successful applicants must be legally able to accept work in the United States. Requests for reasonable accommodation of a disability during the application and/or interview process should be made to the Office of Human Resources, 507-389-2015 (V), 800-627-3529 or 711 (MRS/TTY). This vacancy notice is available in an alternative format upon request. Minnesota State University, Mankato is an affirmative action/equal opportunity University and is a member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System.