Behavior Technician (Paraprofessional) - West Hempstead
About The Position
Gersh Autism is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Behavior Technician (Paraprofessional) to support students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in academic and behavioral settings. The role helps students work toward individualized goals and supports their academic, social, behavioral, communication, and self-management development. The position is based in a school/classroom setting in West Hempstead, NY, as part of a 12-month school program. The schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with one weekly team meeting until 4:00 p.m. Occasional before- and after-school hours may be assigned at the discretion of administrative staff. Behavior Technicians participate in daily training sessions with behavioral analysts and professional development. After completing the RBT course and certification, they may take on additional classroom responsibilities, work directly with the behavior team, and contribute to behavior intervention strategies. The role also offers potential career advancement in education and behavioral therapy within the Gersh Autism network, including future leadership roles and specialized certifications.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- 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 timeframe.
- Ability to keep students safe from themselves and others; in some cases, implement CPI (therapeutic holds) procedures.
- Ability to remove oneself from potentially harmful situations and, in some cases, lift a child.
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and move throughout the workday.
- Ability to lift at least 50–65 pounds and assist or physically support students, including lifting or guiding students of varying sizes.
- Ability to physically intervene when required to ensure safety, in accordance with CPI training.
- Ability to remove oneself and/or others quickly from unsafe situations.
- Ability to maintain attention and focus in a dynamic, high-stimulation environment.
- Ability to multitask and shift priorities quickly.
- Ability to exercise sound judgment and make decisions, 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.
Nice To Haves
- Associate’s degree or higher in education, psychology, or a related field.
- Experience working with children, especially those with autism or special needs.
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, encouraging students’ academic, social, and behavioral growth.
- Help students with daily tasks, including communication, social interaction, and self-management skills.
- Prepare students and materials for work and departure, including appropriate clothing, devices, and work.
- Support students during classroom activities, field trips, and other school-related events.
- Implement strategies from students’ behavior intervention plans to encourage self-regulation and readiness 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, structured learning environment.
- Communicate student progress and challenges to teachers and other school staff.
- Participate in daily training sessions with behavioral analysts and professional development.
- Complete a course and testing to become a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) within a specified timeframe.
Benefits
- Competitive compensation package.
- Comprehensive health benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
- Retirement plan with 401(k) matching.
- Life insurance, including basic, voluntary, and AD&D coverage.
- Family leave, including maternity and paternity leave.
- Short-term and long-term disability coverage.
- Professional development, training, and development opportunities.
- Supportive work environment committed to personal and professional growth.
- Opportunity for career advancement in special education and behavior analysis.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
