Gersh Autism Academy·New York
Provide one-on-one and small group support to students with autism to help them achieve academic and behavioral goals. Implement IEPs and BIPs while collecting data on student progress and collaborating with the teaching team.
*Please note, this is a year-round school program.
Gersh Autism is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Behavior Technician (Paraprofessional) to join our team.
This is an exciting opportunity for individuals passionate about making a positive impact on students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
As a Behavior Technician, you will work directly with students, providing support in both academic and behavioral settings, helping them achieve their individualized goals.
Key Responsibilities: Assist the classroom teacher in implementing individualized education plans (IEPs) and behavior intervention plans (BIPs) for students with autism.
Provide one-on-one and small group support to students, encouraging their academic, social, and behavioral growth.
Help students with daily tasks, including communication, social interaction, and self-management skills.
Support students by preparing them and materials to work and to leave for the day with appropriate clothing, devices and work.
Support students during classroom activities, field trips, and other school-related events.
Implement strategies and techniques from students' behavior intervention plan that encourages self regulation so children are available to learn.
Collect and document data on student performance, behavior, and progress toward goals.
Collaborate with the teaching team and behavioral specialists to create a positive and structured learning environment.
Communicate effectively with teachers and other school staff regarding student progress and any challenges that arise.
Participate in daily training sessions with behavioral analysts and professional development to grow in the field.
High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate’s degree or higher in education, psychology, or a related field preferred. Experience working with children, especially those with autism or special needs, is a plus but not required. A passion for supporting students with autism and other developmental disabilities. Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills. Ability to remain patient, empathetic, and flexible in various situations. Willingness to take a course and complete testing to become a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) within a specified time frame.
Physical Requirements Must be able to keep students safe from themselves and others and, in some cases, may need to implement CPI (therapeutic holds) procedures. Must be able to remove oneself from potentially harmful situations and, in some cases, be able to lift a child. Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and move throughout the workday Ability to lift (at least 50-65 pounds), assist, and/or physically support students, which may include lifting or guiding students of varying sizes Ability to physically intervene when required to ensure safety (per CPI training) Ability to remove oneself and/or others from unsafe situations quickly Ability to maintain attention and focus in a dynamic, high-stimulation environment Ability to multi-task and shift priorities quickly Ability to exercise sound judgment and decision-making, particularly in high-pressure or safety-sensitive situations Ability to work effectively as part of a team and maintain professional relationships Ability to perform duties under stress, including during behavioral escalations
Upon completion of the RBT course and certification, Behavior Technicians will have opportunities to take on more responsibilities within the classroom, work directly with the behavior team, and contribute to developing behavior intervention strategies. Potential for career advancement in education and behavioral therapy fields within the Gersh Autism network, including future leadership roles and specialized certifications.
A high school diploma is required, while an associate's degree in education or psychology is preferred. Candidates must be willing to obtain RBT certification and be physically capable of implementing therapeutic holds (CPI).
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.
