Provider Operations Specialist

POSITION SUMMARY

The Provider Operations Specialist supports the Provider Operations Manager in serving as a primary point of contact for childcare providers within an assigned region. This position coordinates School Readiness (SR) and Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) contracting processes, maintains accurate provider profiles and records, supports Tier 1 School Readiness monitoring, and ensures provider documentation and contract requirements aligns with Division of Early Learning (DEL) guidelines.

The Provider Operations Specialist delivers responsive, professional, and customer-focused service by assisting providers with questions, resolving routine issues, clarifying requirements, and guiding them through contracting processes and available resources. This position builds positive relationships between ELCHC and the childcare provider community while promoting accurate information, timely processing, regulatory compliance, and effective communication.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

- Manage provider contract process from application to execution

- Coordinate contractual requirements for Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) and School Readiness (SR) providers

- Review and approve provider profiles in CCR&R database and provide technical assistance to providers

- Ensure compliance with CCR&R program obligations

- Assist with SR Tier 1 monitoring

- Perform other duties that may be necessary to maintain the success of the organization, as determined by leadership

- Provide accurate and prompt communications with the childcare provider community

- Process provider changes throughout the year, such as director/ownership changes, DBA/name changes, locations, contact information, classroom changes, amendments, closures, and other contract updates.

- Initiate/review annual SR contracts and verify applicable eligibility requirements before sending the contract forward for certification/execution. This can include licensing status, orientation, required documents, health and safety requirements, and other DEL contract requirements.

- Identify missing, expired, or inaccurate documentation that could affect a provider's ability to remain contracted and obtain corrections from the provider.

- Maintain accurate records of provider communications, outstanding requirements, approvals, contract status, and issues that could affect eligibility or reimbursement.

- Serve as a primary contact for providers who need help understanding contracting requirements, correcting applications, updating profiles, or navigating the DEL Portal.

- Explain SR/VPK contracting requirements, assist providers with DEL Provider Portal access, profiles, applications, required documentation, and next steps.

- Minimum of 10 hours of professional development

-   Position requires 50% or more travel to execute job

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
None.

Requirements
QUALIFICATIONS

- High School diploma or equivalent. Associate degree from an accredited institution in early childhood education, social services or other closely related field preferred

- Ability to exemplify our Core Values of Integrity, Equity, Accountability, Collaboration, Innovation, Transparency, Consistency and Benevolence

- Minimum 12 months of experience in executing contracts. Tier 1 monitoring preferred

- Proven ability to connect with a diverse population

- Knowledge of Best-In-Class Customer Service techniques

- Familiarity with Classroom Assessment Scoring System (CLASS) preferred

- Familiarity with School Readiness Health and Safety Standards preferred

- This position requires successful completion of the level 2 background screening standards as set forth in s. 435.04, F.S.

- Valid Florida Driver’s License and the ability to drive a passenger vehicle

- Bi-lingual English/Spanish preferred

- Advanced organizational, analytical, project management, interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills

- Ability to provide consultation and technical assistance in a friendly, professional manner

- Intermediate skills with Microsoft Office Products

- Child Care Resource and Referral certification within the first 90 days of employment

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY/WORK ENVIRONMENT

- Work Environment: This is a hybrid position that requires work both in the office and remotely. The position requires regular interaction with staff, providers, community partners, and the public through in-person, telephone, email, and virtual communication. The position requires regular travel throughout Hillsborough County, including travel to childcare provider locations, ELCHC offices, community sites, meetings, training, provider listening sessions, hearings, and other events. The employee must be able to attend designated provider engagement activities and meetings in person when required. Work activities include extended periods of computer use and sitting, as well as regular travel and movement throughout the county.

- Physical Activity: Work activities include extended periods of computer use and sitting, as well as regular travel for provider visits, meetings, training, and community events. The employee may occasionally be required to lift or move materials weighing up to 25 pounds and, when necessary, up to 50 pounds.