Job Description

Location: St Jospeh's, Waterford



Salary range: €33,403.50 per annum; paid monthly



Experience: FETAC Level 6 in Childcare/Early Years Educator is essential.



Closing date: Fri, 23 Jan 2026



Description:


SVP is a large, national, voluntary organisation with extensive experience of working with a diverse range of people who experience poverty and exclusion. Through its network of volunteers and staff, it is strongly committed to working for social justice and advocates the creation of a more just and caring society. SVP employs people to support volunteers in a variety of settings including housing, community care, shops, administration, and other specialist areas.

The Role:

We are currently looking to recruit a

Senior Childcare Worker

(Specific Purpose - Maternity Cover) to join our

Children & Family

team in

St Joseph's Childcare Centre, Waterford

. The post holder plays a key leadership role in supporting the delivery of high-quality care and education in line with national frameworks and centre policies. Reporting to the Childcare Centre Manager, they ensure the well-being, safety, and development of children, while supervising sta? and maintaining e?ective relationships with families. The role requires a sensitive, professional, and proactive approach, with autonomy in day-to-day responsibilities and escalation only when signi?cant concerns arise.

This is a great opportunity to join one of Ireland’s largest voluntary organisations and make a difference in your community.

Education, Experience, Knowledge and Skills Required

Qualifications

A minimum FETAC Level 6 in Childcare/Early Years Educator is essential. A degree in Early Childcare or Early Years Educator or equivalent would be an advantage.

Experience

2 years ‘experience in relevant childcare role is essential. Experience of delivering best practice supervision sessions is an advantage

Knowledge

Knowledge of the needs and issues of the poor and disadvantaged. Knowledge of Aisteoir, Siolta, Better start programmes and aim. Good knowledge of underlying principles in early years education. Knowledge of Covid-19 health and safety measures and procedures. Knowledge of up-to-date legislation, regulation and guidance governing childcare and afterschool.

Skills

Be a strong team player. Ability to lead, support and motivate a team. Ability to work on own initiative. Enthusiasm and an interest in supporting and empowering young children and their families. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills. Demonstrate excellent listening and supportive skills. Be patient with a well-developed sense of humour. Have a child centred approach to activities.

Appointment is subject to Garda Vetting and satisfactory references. Canvassing will not be accepted and may lead to disqualification. Due to the large volume of applications, we are not in the position to provide individual feedback to candidates who are not shortlisted.

PLEASE NOTE:

If you are interested in being considered for this position, please apply as soon as possible as the role may be closed in advance of the date shown above due to high volume of applications.

SVP is an Equal Opportunities Employer