Autism Day Program Lead (Full-Time)

ChildServe•Johnston, IA

About The Position

Join Child Serve as an Autism Day Program Lead, supporting the health, skill development, and retention of children ages 2–6 in the Autism Day Program. Provide care to children with varying functioning levels across the autism spectrum. In a play-based environment, collaborate directly with occupational, speech, and physical therapists to support developmental goals identified in each child’s individualized care plan. The program provides care at a 1:3 child-to-staff ratio. This full-time role is scheduled for 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday, between 7:30 AM and 6:00 PM. The starting wage is $17.50 per hour. Child Serve partners with families to help children with special healthcare needs live a great life. It is a pediatric healthcare provider with Iowa’s only children’s specialty hospital and offers services in complex medical care, pediatric rehabilitation, autism and behavioral health, and community-based services. Established in 1928, Child Serve provides more than 30 pediatric specialty services to nearly 6,000 children in Iowa each year. Child Serve is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Requirements

Complete and pass the National DCI fingerprint process, child and adult abuse checks, criminal background checks, and a child abuse affidavit before hire and every two years thereafter.
Pass a physical examination at the start of employment and as regulations require.
Be able to lift up to 35 pounds, move throughout clinic areas, and frequently bend, lift, reach, and stand.
Maintain a calm demeanor in an environment that can change quickly and involve elevated behaviors and varying demands.
Communicate effectively in spoken, written, and read English.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in human services or education.
Experience working with children with special healthcare needs and autism.

Responsibilities

Support children in achieving greater independence and school readiness through individualized care, learning, and play in a 1:3 ratio.
Collaborate with behavioral health professionals, therapists, and other team members to follow care plans and meet therapy goals within scope of practice.
Maintain a safe, consistent, and engaging environment and ensure daily needs are met, including feeding, diapering, and toilet training.
Promote communication and social-emotional development using tools such as PECS, communication devices, and guided behavioral support.
Plan and prepare age-appropriate learning activities.
Accurately document care, follow change-of-shift procedures, and communicate professionally with families, staff, and community partners.