Child Development Specialist
About The Position
Positive Development is hiring a part-time Child Development Specialist to work one-on-one with autistic children in their homes and/or center-based settings in Elizabeth, New Jersey, and surrounding areas. Using play-based, relationship-focused interactions, the specialist helps children build communication, social, and daily living skills. The role involves active coaching and connection with children, following a relationship-based intervention model, and documenting session notes and goal outcomes. The specialist collaborates with clinicians and supervisors, receives paid training and ongoing mentorship, and gains exposure to evidence-based developmental care and Positive Development’s autism-care model. The position is suited to people balancing school or other commitments, and offers part-time scheduling options during weekdays or on weekends. Employment is contingent upon clearing a background check and successfully completing training.
Requirements
- High school diploma or GED.
- Must be at least 18 years old.
- Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation, with the ability to travel within a 30–40 minute drive radius.
- Ability to complete physical tasks, including playing on the floor or ground for up to two to three hours per session, lifting or carrying up to 40 pounds, and sitting, kneeling, crouching, or moving quickly to ensure child safety.
- Strong communication skills and professionalism with families and teammates.
- Patience, empathy, enthusiasm, reliability, and commitment to a consistent schedule.
- Comfort working directly with families in a home-based setting.
- Clear a background check and successfully complete training.
Nice To Haves
- Experience or interest in working with children and teens.
- Interest in human development and learning.
- Relevant backgrounds may include education, psychology, pre-medical or nursing studies, occupational therapy or speech-language pathology, behavior support, camp counseling, teaching assistance, childcare, direct support, or caregiving.
Responsibilities
- Work one-on-one with children in their homes and/or center-based settings.
- Build children’s 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.
- Document session notes and goal outcomes to track progress.
- Collaborate with clinicians and supervisors to develop clinical skills and confidence.
- Work directly with families in a home-based setting when applicable.
Benefits
- $1,000 referral bonus.
- Monthly technology stipend.
- Paid drive time at the admin rate and mileage reimbursement between clients at the IRS rate.
- Paid new-hire training.
- Ongoing coaching and mentorship from expert clinicians.
- Opportunities for role progression, pay increases, and performance bonuses.
- Strong performers may request letters of recommendation for graduate or professional programs.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Part-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
