Behavior Technician (Paraprofessional) - West Hills
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 involves helping students achieve individualized goals through one-on-one and small-group support, implementing education and behavior plans, and contributing to a positive, structured learning environment. This is a year-round, 12-month school program in a school/classroom setting in Huntington, NY. The schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., with one day per week until 4:00 p.m. for a team meeting. Occasional before- and after-school work may be scheduled at the discretion of Administrative staff. The position includes daily training with behavioral analysts and professional development. The employee must be willing to complete a course and testing to become a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) within a specified time frame. After completing the course and certification, Behavior Technicians may take on additional classroom responsibilities, work directly with the behavior team, and contribute to behavior intervention strategies. Career advancement and specialized certification opportunities may be available within the Gersh Autism network.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Passion for supporting students with autism and other developmental disabilities.
- Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to remain patient, empathetic, and flexible in varied situations.
- Willingness to take a course and complete testing to become a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) within a specified time frame.
- 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 from unsafe situations quickly.
- 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).
- Provide one-on-one and small-group student support to encourage academic, social, and behavioral growth.
- Help students develop communication, social interaction, and self-management skills, and support them with daily tasks.
- Prepare students and materials for work and for leaving at the end of the day, including appropriate clothing, devices, and work.
- Support students during classroom activities, field trips, and other school-related events.
- Implement behavior intervention plan strategies and techniques that encourage self-regulation and help students be 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 with teachers and other school staff about student progress and challenges.
- Participate in daily training sessions with behavioral analysts and professional development.
- Upon completing the RBT course and certification, potentially take on additional classroom responsibilities, work directly with the behavior team, and contribute to behavior intervention strategies.
Benefits
- Comprehensive health and retirement benefits.
- Professional development opportunities and a supportive work environment committed to personal and professional growth.
- Health care plan: medical, dental, and vision.
- Retirement plan with 401(k) matching.
- Life insurance: basic, voluntary, and AD&D.
- Family leave, including maternity and paternity leave.
- Short-term and long-term disability.
- Training and development.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
