Developmental Disabilities Institute (DDI)·Town of Smithtown, New York
The Classroom Aide supports the education of individuals with developmental disabilities in a self-contained classroom. Key duties include implementing behavior support plans, collecting performance data, and assisting with daily living activities and student safety.
Full-Time, Hourly $18 - $21.60/hour
Do you want a career where you directly impact lives, experiencing the deep fulfillment that comes from helping others and a strong sense of purpose?
Shifts Available: Monday – Friday, 8 am – 3 pm
Brightway Living & Learning is a premier non-profit provider of human services on Long Island, including educational, residential, day habilitation, and vocational programs. Building on a 65-year legacy as the Developmental Disabilities Institute (DDI), Brightway supports over 1,600 children and adults with autism and other developmental disabilities through a full continuum of care. By employing persistence, adaptability, and the power of behavioral science, Brightway’s dedicated professionals enable individuals to grow, learn, and meet milestones at their own pace. Discover more about our mission and our "All Ways Forward" approach at brightwayny.org.
School Age Classroom Aide’s in the School Age Program are creative, energetic, career-oriented teaching professionals who are motivated to educate individuals with developmental disabilities in an ungraded self-contained classroom. Teaching Assistants are offered on-going training and support provided by board certified behavior analysts and other qualified professionals to enhance and maximize career growth. Our school programs operate on a 12-month calendar. This is a great opportunity to get valuable experience and knowledge working in a classroom and community setting following the principles of applied behavior analysis. See full job description for qualifications and responsibilities.
High School Diploma or equivalent
Must demonstrate an interest in working with students with developmental disabilities.
Must demonstrate good interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills.
Obtain Initial Teaching Assistant Certification within the first 120 days of employment or within 120 days after transferring into this position.
Demonstrate knowledge of outlined curriculum and IEP goals.
Collect student behavior and performance data as directed by the teacher.
Assist the classroom teacher to conduct basic instructional activities and help with student safety and supervision.
Attend and pass all required in-services and trainings.
Participate in performance reviews/discussions.
Accept assignments in varying classes, in accordance with the program’s needs to provide proper ratio in class groupings.
Be familiar with and act in accordance with all policies contained in the School Age Program Handbook for Staff.
Assist with busing at arrival and dismissal.
Set up and maintain classroom materials and supplies.
Under the supervision of the classroom teacher or certified TA implement outlined behavior support plans & physical restraint plans.
Supervise children during classroom activities.
Assist students in all daily living activities.
Work collaboratively with classroom staff and team members.
Other duties as assigned.
Modify the area to secure the safety of the children i.e., move/push tables and other heavy objects up to 20 lbs.
Lift/move 20 lbs. (mats).
Run after students up to 500 feet.
Run to a classroom in need up to 500 feet.
Kneel, twist and bend.
Respond to fire alarms.
Then, we encourage you to apply and join the Brightway Living & Learning team!
When you join our team, you become part of the Brightway Living & Learning Family! Click here [https://ddiny.vidizmo.com/play/video/f97dc98f-46bb-4b0f-800a-fd58b4bfb4b3/Brightway65thAnniversaryVideo?Token=NZSJYNX6E5RGAGDGQECBNVTIMI] to watch our video to find out more about the Brightway Living & Learning Family.
Brightway Living & Learning is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees without regard to actual or perceived race, color, sex, pregnancy, reproductive decision making, gender expression or identity, national origin, disability, military status, creed, religion, age, sexual orientation, marital status, genetic information, status as a victim of domestic violence or any other group protected by federal, state or local law. We are committed to creating a deep sense of belonging and a culture where all applicants and employees feel welcomed, valued and respected. At Brightway, we believe that with the right support, progress is always possible.
Candidates must have a high school diploma or equivalent and a demonstrated interest in working with students with developmental disabilities. Initial Teaching Assistant Certification must be obtained within 120 days of employment.
Market context
Teaching assistant roles in New York are often tied to steady school and childcare staffing needs, especially where programs need support for classroom routines, supervision, and active play. These roles can be competitive because employers look for candidates who meet state or accreditation requirements and can handle both indoor and outdoor activity demands. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits on this platform to save research time, then confirm your education, experience, and physical readiness before applying.
School Age Program Hiring Event 8/26/2026 1 pm - 4:30 pm
Early childhood preschool 1:1 aide
Job developer – adult day services