Autism Day Program Assistant - PRN: Flexible Hours!

ChildServe; Ames (IA); Hybrid; USD 15,911 - 22,661; Part time

Job summary

ChildServe is looking for an Autism Day Program Assistant to help children ages 2-6 thrive through individualized care and play-based learning. You will work collaboratively with various therapists to support developmental goals established in each child's care plan.

This position requires a two-year degree in human services or education and offers flexible hours from Monday to Friday, with a starting pay of around $14/hr. ChildServe is committed to providing a supportive environment and reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities.

Qualifications

• Experience working with children with special healthcare needs preferred.
• Must pass background and abuse checks before hire.
• Maintain calm demeanor in changing environments.

Responsibilities

• Support children in achieving greater independence and school readiness.
• Collaborate with therapists to follow care plans.
• Maintain safe and engaging environment while assisting children.

Skills

Communication skills

Mobility within clinic areas

Ability to lift up to 35 lbs

Experience with special healthcare needs

Education

Two-year degree in human services or education

Job description

Join Child Serve 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
Flexible hours within hours of operation: 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM

The starting pay rate for this role is around $14/hour.

Location

This service is offered at our Johnston, Des Moines, Ames, Iowa City, and Cedar Rapids locations. Please check specific location on postings to see which locations currently have openings.

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.

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