Young Adult SPED & Behavior Teacher - Relocation Available

Thrive Education Partners•Buffalo, NY

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 young adult in his home and community in Fairport, New York. The role combines individualized instruction, life and community skills, and behavior support. The student communicates using short phrases, gestures, and an AAC device, and has significant behavior support needs, including a history of physical aggression. A 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 instruction in communication, functional literacy, and math, while also supporting daily living, leisure, and community skills. Learning should connect to the student’s routines, interests, and real-world experiences. The position offers autonomy, collaboration with the family and Thrive’s Educational Manager, and the opportunity to help shape the student’s program as he transitions from traditional school. As the program grows, the educator may take on leadership responsibilities, including setting program direction and training and coaching additional staff. The position is based primarily in the student’s home, with regular community-based learning and outings. It involves 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 graduation. Driving and local travel are required. Relocation assistance is available. The role is described as stable, salaried, full-time employment with guaranteed annual compensation, paying $60,000–$85,000 annually based on experience and credentials.

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.
Eligible to work in the United States.
Consistent weekly availability for a long-term position.

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 the 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 weekly schedule built around his goals.
As the program expands, potentially set program direction and train and coach support staff.