Turning Pointe Autism Foundation·Naperville, Illinois
Implement behavior intervention plans and crisis protocols to support adult students with autism in a classroom and community setting. Collaborate with the educational team to create a positive environment and promote independence and communication.
Required: Experience working with adult/transition age students impacted by autism or other developmental disabilities.
ISBE Paraprofessional or Substitute Educator License or Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Applied Behavior Analysis, Speech-Language Pathology, Social Work, Education, or a related field.
Salary: $35,600-$45,000 annually
Description Do you want to work for an organization that is dedicated to creating best practice learning environments to increase independence, and improve communication and socially appropriate behaviors for individuals on the spectrum? Can you see yourself as part of an environment that strives to raise the quality of educational supports for children and adults with autism? Then Turning Pointe Autism Foundation is the place for you!
Turning Pointe Autism Foundation is looking for someone to be a member of the classroom team that ensures a welcoming and positive environment for participants by creating engagement activities that promote the key objectives and values of the organization. This position requires excellent interpersonal skills and a willingness to collaborate with team members.
In support of its team members, Turning Pointe Autism Foundation offers PTO, medical, dental, and vision plans, pet insurance, HSA, FSA, EAP, life insurance, short-term disability and participation in a Simple IRA with company match.
Demonstrate professionalism while representing the Turning Pointe mission, philosophy and programmatic approach while in the community, with other professionals or at work-related events Respectfully implement all programming provided by the educational team Implement student personal and intimate care plan as needed Implement all Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) provided by the educational team Implement crisis protocols, which may include physical crisis management procedures Maintain up-to-date crisis intervention certification Participate in a collaborative team setting by giving feedback and submitting ideas to the TPAF team as a member of the TPAF community Accept and receive feedback provided by Administrators, Supervisors, Related Service Providers, Teachers and Lead IBI’s Demonstrate flexibility in supporting a variety of adult service programs, schedules, community activities/programs, and organizational events, including occasional evening or weekend responsibilities (*the community-based calendar includes a minimum of one evening or weekend event coverage per month) Maintain confidentiality of all student records, information and personal details Participate in daily meetings Participate in trainings, staff meetings, in-service meetings and events as assigned Participate in swim program, recreational outings and community outings Perform other work and responsibilities as assigned Turning Pointe is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. It provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. If you require additional support or assistance, please contact sodoherty@turningpointeaf.org.
*The salary range listed for this position is a guideline and may vary. The salary is based on the role's requirements, the candidate's experience, and other relevant factors. The final compensation offer may vary depending on qualifications, experience, and geographic location. Salary details will be discussed during the interview process.
Experience & Skills: A proven track record as a team player Ability to remain calm and organized in fast-paced work environment Ability to communicate pertinent information to the team Experience working in an educational, therapeutic, or similar environment with students impacted by autism or other developmental disabilities preferred Ability to implement behavior support plans Knowledge of the basic principles of Applied Behavior Analysis preferred Physical Demands: May include lifting and supporting up to 50 pounds Implement crisis protocols, which may include physical crisis management procedures May be required to bend, stoop, and kneel Ability to work at a desk, conference table or in meetings of various configurations Ability to stand and circulate for extended periods of time Moderate to high stress levels Daily contact with students, teachers, and school staff Regular contact with parents, community members and outside agency personnel May be exposed to contact with individuals displaying physically aggressive, self-abusive, or socially undesirable behavior
Market context
In Illinois, teaching assistant roles are commonly driven by school staffing needs in special education and general classroom support, especially where paraprofessional licensing is required. These positions can be competitive because employers often look for a valid TASN paraprofessional license, at least 60 semester hours or a paraprofessional exam, plus strong communication and knowledge of disabilities. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits from the original posting to save research time, then confirm your license status and readiness to follow classroom directions before applying.