Play-Based Therapist

Cortica•San Marcos, CA

About The Position

Cortica is seeking a Play-Based Therapist to work directly with children with autism and other neurodevelopmental differences, helping them build life skills, develop confidence, and make progress. Prior applied behavior analysis (ABA) experience is not required; training, tools, and ongoing support are provided. The role involves working with children at client locations and traveling between locations within approximately a 30–40-minute radius. Candidates need reliable transportation and must successfully complete a post-offer background check and motor vehicle report review. The position offers part-time schedule options of five, three, or two days per week, with a minimum of three hours per day. Schedules are described as predictable and flexible, and employees may have opportunities to pick up additional hours on Saturdays. Pay is $20.87–$28.00 per hour, based on experience and education. Paid drive time and mileage reimbursement between client sessions are provided, with toll reimbursement in select areas, as well as a cell phone stipend and employee referral bonuses. Cortica provides a two-week, in-person training and orientation program, hands-on guidance, and ongoing coaching. Employees work alongside Lead Behavior Technicians, ABA Assistant Supervisors, and ABA Supervisors. Career development opportunities include pursuing a future as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), advancing through the Behavior Technician Clinical Ladder, or exploring corporate support roles.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Reliable transportation and ability to travel between client locations within approximately a 30–40-minute radius.
Comfort using technology and willingness to learn electronic medical record systems and Microsoft Office tools.
Pass a post-offer background check and motor vehicle report review.
Patient, dependable, adaptable, and eager to learn.
Passionate about working with children and helping others learn and grow.
Comfortable building relationships and creating fun, engaging experiences.
Interested in developing new skills and making a meaningful difference.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with children or individuals with developmental disabilities is a plus, but not required.
Backgrounds such as childcare, teaching, teaching assistance, camp counseling, coaching, youth programs, healthcare, behavioral health, or social services may be a good fit.
Interest in pursuing a future as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).

Responsibilities

Work directly with children to help them build important life skills, develop confidence, and make progress.
Create fun, engaging experiences and build relationships with children.
Travel between client locations within approximately a 30–40-minute radius.
Participate in training, orientation, and ongoing coaching.
Use technology, electronic medical record systems, and Microsoft Office tools.