About the Role
Academy for Young Minds (AYM), powered by Gersh, is seeking an experienced Behavior Technician (Paraprofessional) to support students on the Autism Spectrum, ages 5-15. This role involves direct student support in academic and behavioral settings to help them achieve individualized goals within a full-time, 12-month program.
Responsibilities
- Assist the classroom teacher in implementing individualized education plans (IEPs) and behavior intervention plans (BIPs).
- Provide one-on-one and small group support to students, encouraging 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 for the day.
- Support students during classroom activities, field trips, and school events.
- Implement strategies from behavior intervention plans to encourage self-regulation.
- Collect and document data on student performance, behavior, and progress.
- Collaborate with the teaching team and behavioral specialists to create a positive learning environment.
- Communicate effectively with staff regarding student progress and challenges.
- Participate in daily training sessions and professional development.
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.
- Willingness to complete training and 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 implement CPI procedures.
- Must be able to remove oneself from potentially harmful situations and 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.
- Ability to physically intervene when required to ensure safety.
- 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.
- 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
Location
- Long Island City, NY
Work Type
- Full-time
- 12-month school calendar
- School / Classroom setting
Experience Level
- Experienced Behavior Technician (Paraprofessional)
Education Level
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Associate’s degree or higher in education, psychology, or a related field preferred
Benefits
- Comprehensive health benefits
- Retirement benefits
- Professional development opportunities
- Supportive work environment
- Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
- Retirement Plan (401k matching)
- Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
- Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
- Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
- Training & Development
About the Company
- Academy for Young Minds (AYM) is a private school for learners on the Autism Spectrum, ages 5-15.
- AYM is powered by Gersh.
- Gersh Autism offers a competitive compensation package.
