Day Program Assistant - Autism (Full Time)

ChildServe; Johnston (IA); On-site; USD 18,161 - 25,866; Full time

Job summary

A leading pediatric healthcare provider in Johnston, IA is seeking an Autism Day Program Assistant to support children aged 2-6 in their care and development. This role involves collaborating with therapists to meet individual care goals while providing a nurturing environment. Ideal candidates have a background in human services or education and a passion for working with children with special needs. The role requires lifting ability and effective communication in English. Join us in making a difference in children's lives every day.

Qualifications

• Experience working with children with special healthcare needs preferred.
• Must pass background checks and complete fingerprint process.
• Must be able to lift up to 35 lbs and maintain mobility within clinic areas.
• Effective communication in English, both written and verbal.

Responsibilities

• Support children in achieving greater independence through individualized care.
• Collaborate with behavioral health professionals to meet therapy goals.
• Maintain a safe and engaging environment for daily needs.
• Promote communication and social-emotional development.
• Document care and communicate professionally with families and staff.

Skills

Communication

Team collaboration

Calm demeanor

Adaptability

Education

Two-year degree in human services or education

Job description

Join ChildServe as an Autism Day Program Assistant, where you will contribute to the lives of children ages 2-6 by supporting their health, skill development and retention in our Autism Day Program. You will provide and assist with the care of children with varying functioning levels across the autism spectrum. Through direct collaboration with occupational, speech, and physical therapists, and a play-based environment, you will assist with developmental goals as designated by each child’s individualized care plan.

Schedule and Compensation

Monday–Friday, 40 hours between 7:30 AM and 6:00 PM. The starting pay rate is $15.98 /hour.

How You’ll Make an Impact

• Support children in achieving greater independence and school readiness through individualized care, learning, and play in a 1:3 ratio.
• Collaborate with behavioral health professionals, therapists, and other team members to follow care plans and meet therapy goals within scope of practice.
• Maintain a safe, consistent, and engaging environment while assisting with daily needs such as feeding, diapering, and toilet training.
• Promote communication and social-emotional development using tools like PECS, communication devices, and guided behavioral support.
• Accurately document care, follow change‑of‑shift procedures, and communicate professionally with families, staff, and community partners.

What You’ll Need

• Two‑year degree in human services or education preferred; experience working with children with special healthcare needs preferred.
• Must complete and pass the National DCI fingerprint process, child/adult abuse and criminal background checks, and child abuse affidavit prior to hire and every two years thereafter.
• Must be able to pass a physical examination at commencement of employment and as regulations require; lift up to 35 lbs, be mobile within clinic areas, and frequently bend, lift, reach, and stand.
• Maintain a calm demeanor in an environment that can change quickly with elevated behaviors and different demands, and communicate effectively in reading, writing, and speaking the English language.

Not sure if you hit 100% of the position expectations? Let’s talk! Reach out to our Talent Acquisition team by emailing [e-mail].

Make a Difference Every Day at ChildServe

• ChildServe partners with families to help children with special healthcare needs live a great life.
• ChildServe is a leading pediatric healthcare provider with Iowa’s only children's specialty hospital, offering a variety of services and programs to meet each child’s unique needs.
• ChildServe’s four key specialty areas include: complex medical care, pediatric rehabilitation, autism and behavioral health, and community-based services. With a coordinated approach to care delivery, services are interwoven and streamlined, so families can address their child’s needs in one location.
• Established in 1928, ChildServe proudly provides more than 30 pediatric specialty services to nearly 6,000 children in Iowa each year.

ChildServe is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. To request assistance with the application process, please email [e-mail]. ChildServe is an Equal Opportunity Employer.