Young Adult SPED & Behavior Teacher - Relocation Available

Thrive Education Partners•Pittsburgh, PA

9d•$60,000 - $85,000•Onsite

About The Position

Thrive Education Partners is seeking an experienced educator to work one-on-one with an autistic, non-conversational young adult in his home and community in Fairport, New York. The position combines individualized instruction, life and community skills, and behavior support. The student communicates using short phrases, gestures, and an AAC device, and has epilepsy and significant behavioral support needs, including a history of physical aggression. A current behavior plan and written safety plan will be in place before the educator works independently, and Thrive will provide training and ongoing support. The educator will provide a defined daily block of instruction in communication, functional literacy, and math, with remaining time focused on daily living, leisure, and community skills. The role calls for active, experiential learning connected to real-life routines and interests, consistent implementation of behavior and safety plans, and regular communication with the family and Thrive’s Educational Manager. The position is intended as a long-term role that can expand as the student transitions from traditional school into adulthood. The educator may contribute to transition programming, community-based learning, vocational exploration, and the development of a weekly schedule based on the student’s goals. As the program grows, the educator may lead the support team by setting program direction and training and coaching staff. The position is primarily in-home, with regular community-based learning and outings. It is based in Fairport, NY, and relocation assistance is available. The schedule is approximately four to five days per week, primarily afternoons and early evenings during the current school year, with some school breaks and weekend hours. The schedule may change after the student graduates. Driving and local travel are required. The start date is as soon as possible.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in any field.
At least 5 years of professional experience supporting individuals with disabilities and significant support needs.
Hands-on experience supporting adolescents or adults with challenging behavior, including physical aggression.
Current certification in a recognized crisis-intervention and safety program, such as CPI, QBS, PCM, Safety-Care, or equivalent.
Experience supporting students with autism and significant communication needs.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and a safe driving record; a motor vehicle record check will be completed.
Eligibility to work in the United States.
Consistent weekly availability for a long-term role.

Nice To Haves

BCBA or RBT certification.
Degree in Special Education or a related field.
State teaching certification.
Experience with young adult transition programming, functional academics, or life skills instruction.
Experience supervising, training, or coaching paraprofessionals, RBTs, or direct care staff.
AAC experience or training.
Experience developing or adapting individualized curriculum.
Experience working within a family’s home.

Responsibilities

Design and deliver individualized instruction based on the student’s current skills, interests, and goals.
Connect academics and communication to everyday routines, community outings, and real-world experiences.
Implement behavior and safety plans consistently and record daily behavior data.
Build predictable routines and adjust plans on higher-need days.
Communicate clearly and regularly with the family.
Collaborate with Thrive’s Educational Manager on goals, progress, and program adjustments.
Contribute to planning the student’s post-graduation program, potentially including transition programming, community-based learning, vocational exploration, and a goal-based weekly schedule.
As the program expands, set program direction and train and coach support staff so they follow a consistent plan.