About the Role
Gersh Autism is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Behavior Technician (Paraprofessional) to support students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in academic and behavioral settings, helping them achieve their individualized goals.
Responsibilities
- Assist the classroom teacher in implementing individualized education plans (IEPs) and behavior intervention plans (BIPs) for students with autism.
- Provide one-on-one and small group support to students, encouraging their academic, social, and behavioral growth.
- Help students with daily tasks, including communication, social interaction, and self-management skills.
- Support students by preparing them and materials to work and to leave for the day with appropriate clothing, devices and work.
- Support students during classroom activities, field trips, and other school-related events.
- Implement strategies and techniques from students' behavior intervention plan that encourages self regulation so children are available to learn.
- Collect and document data on student performance, behavior, and progress toward goals.
- Collaborate with the teaching team and behavioral specialists to create a positive and structured learning environment.
- Communicate effectively with teachers and other school staff regarding student progress and any challenges that arise.
- Participate in daily training sessions with behavioral analysts and professional development to grow in the field.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Experience working with children, especially those with autism or special needs, is a plus but not required.
- A passion for supporting students with autism and other developmental disabilities.
- Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to remain patient, empathetic, and flexible in various situations.
- Willingness to take a course and complete testing to become a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) within a specified time frame.
- Must be able to keep students safe from themselves and others and, in some cases, may need to implement CPI (therapeutic holds) procedures.
- Must be able to remove oneself from potentially harmful situations and, in some cases, be able to lift a child.
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and move throughout the workday.
- Ability to lift (at least 50-65 pounds), assist, and/or physically support students, which may include lifting or guiding students of varying sizes.
- Ability to physically intervene when required to ensure safety (per CPI training).
- Ability to remove oneself and/or others from unsafe situations quickly.
- Ability to maintain attention and focus in a dynamic, high-stimulation environment.
- Ability to multi-task and shift priorities quickly.
- Ability to exercise sound judgment and decision-making, particularly in high-pressure or safety-sensitive situations.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team and maintain professional relationships.
- Ability to perform duties under stress, including during behavioral escalations.
Skills
- Communication skills
- Organizational skills
- Interpersonal skills
- Patience
- Empathy
- Flexibility
- Data collection
- Collaboration
- Problem-solving
Location
- Brooklyn, NY
Work Type
- Full-time
- School setting
- 12-month program
Experience Level
- Entry level
Education Level
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Associate’s degree or higher in education, psychology, or a related field preferred
Benefits
- Comprehensive health benefits (Medical, Dental & Vision)
- Retirement Plan (401k matching)
- Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
- Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
- Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
- Training & Development
- Opportunity for career advancement in the field of special education and behavior analysis
About the Company
- Gersh Autism offers a competitive compensation package, including comprehensive health and retirement benefits, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work environment committed to your personal and professional growth.
