TARSS Training of Trainers instructor opportunity

Position overview

Members of the TOT instructor pool will be considered for contract opportunities to deliver TOT events on behalf of TARSS. Inclusion in the pool does not guarantee employment but provides eligibility for contracting on an as-needed basis. We anticipate selecting five individuals to be in the instructor pool. 

Note: The payment rate is set by TARSS and is non-negotiable. Payment rates are based on the length of the TOT and the number of participants. 

Qualifications

• Trainer Types: Master, Expert, or Higher Education
• Approved to train online
• Demonstrated competence in training and facilitation
• Approved to train on at least one DCYF-owned course
• Experience delivering early childhood or adult training, preferred

How to apply

Please review the requirements outlined below and submit your application for consideration.

The application will ask for basic identification information and require two file uploads: your Develop Trainer Information and a training segment video.

Application opens Friday, August 22, 2025 and closes Friday, September 12, 2025 at 5 p.m. CT. All application materials must be submitted to TARSS by Friday, September 12 at 5 p.m. CT.

Note: This application involves a training video example. This requires preparation time and planning before submitting the application. Your application will not be reviewed unless the training video example is submitted to TARSS by September 12 at 5 p.m. CT. If you have technical difficulties uploading your PDF or training segment delivery, please email tarss@umn.edu for assistance before the application deadline. Late applications will not be reviewed.

Training segment directions

As part of the application process for the TOT instructor, TARSS would like to see an example of your training and communication style. To be considered for the TOT instructor pool, you must submit a training segment example.

Requirements

• Segment must be 4–6 minutes in length
• Segment must include your face and voice
• Address one of the provided prompts
• Present your material as you would to a group of educators during a level 1 training event

Helpful tips

• You do not need an audience for this video
• You will not have time to complete an entire training in these 4–6 minutes. Just cover the prompt
• You may use previously created training or materials
• You can add visuals or other resources
• If you use video examples, they must fit into the time frame and fit into the overall presentation
• We do not require works cited for this presentation. However, if you do use resources, make sure they are from a credible source

Video prompts (select one)

1. “Relationships are critical to working effectively with young children and their families. Educators build relationships with children when they get to know each individual’s likes and dislikes, needs, and personality.” Reference Companion Guide, page 3.
2. “Culturally responsive educators honor children’s cultural identities throughout daily practice, interactions and routines. Educators must make this effort with families from all cultural backgrounds (including their own) because each family expresses their culture in unique ways.” Reference Companion Guide, page 3.
3. “Development occurs in predictable patterns, but children develop at individual rates.” Reference Companion Guide, page 7.

Only members of the TARSS team will view your video. Your video will be stored on Box, the University of Minnesota’s secure online storage and sharing platform. Your video will be deleted once decisions are made regarding the applications.

Apply now