Child Development Specialist

Positive Development • Hamburg, NJ

1d • Onsite

About The Position

At Positive Development, we work one-on-one with autistic children, helping them build communication, social, and daily living skills through play-based, relationship-focused interactions. This role is actively coaching, connecting, and helping children grow, while gaining experience relevant for careers in Psychology, Social Work, Occupational Therapy, Speech Language Pathology, Education and Special Education, Counseling, and Medicine and Health. This work is deeply rewarding, but it requires patience, emotional maturity, and commitment. You’ll be supported every step of the way by experienced clinicians and supervisors who are invested in your growth.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED (must be 18+)
• Valid driver’s license + reliable transportation (30–40 min drive radius).
• Ability to complete physical tasks, including: Playing on the floor/ground for up to two-three hours per session, Lifting/carrying up to 40 lbs, Sitting, kneeling, crouching, or moving quickly to ensure child safety.
• Strong communication skills and professionalism with families and teammates.

Nice To Haves

• Passionate about working with children and teens
• Curious about human development and learning
• Patient, empathetic, and enthusiastic
• Reliable and committed to a consistent schedule
• Comfortable working directly with families in home-based setting
• Education majors, psychology students, pre-meds, nursing students, OT/SLP hopefuls, behavior technicians, camp counselors, teacher’s assistants, childcare providers, direct support professionals, and caregivers.

Responsibilities

• Work one-on-one with children in their homes and/or center based to build communication, social, and daily living skills through play, conversation, and shared activities.
• Create meaningful connections that help children think, create, and engage with the world.
• Follow a relationship-based intervention model designed to achieve strong outcomes with fewer session hours.
• Track progress by documenting session notes and goal outcomes.
• Collaborate closely with clinicians and supervisors to build clinical skills and confidence.
• Learn how evidence-based developmental care works in real life.

Benefits

• Paid drive time + mileage reimbursement (IRS rate) between clients
• Paid New Hire Training
• Ongoing coaching and mentorship from expert clinicians
• Opportunities for role progression, pay increases, and performance bonuses
• $1000 Referral Bonus
• Monthly Technology Stipend
• Paid training
• Letters of recommendation for graduate or professional programs (for strong performers)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED