Program Assistant

Job DetailsJob Location: Bastrop, TX 78602Salary Range: $15.68 - $16.55 Hourly

Job Summary

The Program Assistant provides administrative and programmatic support to ensure effective Head Start services and compliance with Head Start Performance Standards. The position supports staff, families, and program leadership through organized, accurate, and professional work practices.

Competency Area

Responsibilities

Key Behaviors

Front Office & Customer Service Excellence

Answer and route incoming calls using a multiline phone system
Greet and assist visitors, families, vendors, and employees in a professional and welcoming manner
Provide basic information about agency services, Head Start and Early Head Start enrollment, and employment opportunities
Direct callers and visitors to appropriate staff or departments

Demonstrates courtesy, patience, and professionalism
Communicates clearly and respectfully in English and Spanish
Maintains a calm and welcoming demeanor
Represents the agency positively at all times

Communication, Translation & Information Support

Translate verbal and written communications between English and Spanish as needed
Take accurate messages and ensure timely delivery to appropriate personnel
Communicate information clearly to diverse audiences
Support effective communication across departments

Listens actively and communicates accurately
Maintains confidentiality and discretion
Demonstrates cultural sensitivity
Ensures messages are complete and timely

Clerical & Administrative Support

Provide clerical support including filing, copying, faxing, scanning, collating, and data entry
Assist program departments with word processing and document preparation
Support Human Resources with clerical tasks as assigned
Maintain organized and accessible records

Demonstrates attention to detail and organization
Completes tasks accurately and on time
Follows established procedures
Manages multiple tasks effectively demonstrating a respectful demeanor.

Mail, Supplies & Office Operations

Receive, sort, and distribute incoming mail
Coordinate express mail services (FedEx, UPS, etc.) as needed
Maintain office supply inventory by ordering, receiving, stocking, and distributing supplies
Support daily office operations to ensure efficiency

Anticipates office supply needs
Maintains orderly workspaces and systems
Uses resources responsibly
Follows agency purchasing procedures

Confidentiality, Ethics & Professional Conduct

Maintain confidentiality of personnel files, child records, and agency information
Adhere to agency policies, procedures, and professional standards
Exercise good judgment when handling sensitive information
Support a respectful and professional office environment

Demonstrates integrity and discretion
Respects privacy and confidentiality
Acts ethically and responsibly

Collaboration, Inclusion & Problem Solving

Work effectively with individuals from diverse educational, socioeconomic, and cultural backgrounds
Support individuals with disabilities and special needs appropriately
Assist with identifying issues and supporting solutions within scope of role
Promote teamwork and positive relationships

Demonstrates cultural responsiveness and inclusivity
Communicates respectfully with all individuals
Responds positively to feedback and direction
Maintains a cooperative and supportive attitude

Reliability, Accountability & Workplace Readiness

Maintain regular and punctual attendance
Adhere to scheduled work hours (Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.)
Perform duties in a safe, timely, and professional manner
Participate positively in agency activities and daily operations.

Demonstrates dependability and consistency
Follows workplace expectations and schedules
Takes ownership of responsibilities
Maintains a positive work ethic

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

High School Diploma or GED
Minimum of six (6) months of related clerical or administrative experience
Must be at least eighteen (18) years of age
Fluent in English and Spanish (verbal and written)
Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, office phone systems, and general office equipment
Strong verbal and written communication skills
Ability to work independently and exercise good judgment
Ability to pass all background checks and health screenings.
Must be dependable, flexible, and responsive to program needs.

Licenses/Certifications

Current CPR and First Aid certification (or ability to obtain).
Valid Texas Driver License
Background clearance as required by state and federal regulations.

Working Conditions & Physical Demands

Work performed in a professional office environment
Ability to lift at least 40lbs.
Primarily sedentary with occasional standing, bending, and filing
Ability to lift files, open cabinets, and operate office equipment
Performs other duties as assigned