Autism Specialist

Springfield Empowerment Zone Partnership; Springfield (MA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Springfield Empowerment Zone Partnership seeks a professional to participate in the Evaluation team, focusing on developing Individualized Education Plans for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The role requires assisting in creating appropriate programs and providing essential training and support for staff and parents.

The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor’s degree in a related field, with preferred qualifications including a Master's degree and BCBA certification. Experience in K-12 environments and expertise in ASD education practices is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field required; Master’s degree preferred.
• Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) or DESE license in Severe or Moderate Disabilities preferred.
• Experience in K-12 educational environment preferred.
• Demonstrated experience and expertise in best practices in educating children with ASD.

Responsibilities

• Assist in developing Individualized Education Plans for students with ASD.
• Provide staff training on meeting student needs in educational settings.
• Conduct formative and diagnostic assessments for students.
• Develop data collection tools for specific student information.

Skills

Experience in K-12 educational environment

Expertise in best practices for educating children with ASD

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a related field

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)

DESE license in Severe or Moderate Disabilities

Job description

Responsibilities

• Participates as a member of the Evaluation team and assists in the development of Individualized Education Plans and services for students with ASD.
• Staff training and consultation on meeting the needs of students with ASD in general and special education settings.
• Attend regional trainings and meetings of the Department of Education pertinent to educating students with autism.
• Provide parent training and support through consultations and group workshops for students with ASD.
• Conduct formative and diagnostic assessments necessary for providing specific information on students.
• Develops data collection tools to facilitate Functional Behavior Assessments and Behavior Intervention Plans for students.
• Assists in developing appropriate programs and services for students with ASD in the Springfield Public Schools.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field required. Master’s degree preferred.
• Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) preferred or DESE license in Severe or Moderate Disabilities; other DESE licenses in related fields may be considered.
• Experience in a K‑12 educational environment preferred.
• Demonstrated experience and expertise in best practices in educating children with ASD.

Equal Opportunity Employment

The Springfield Public Schools is committed to maintaining a work environment free from discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetic information, pregnancy or pregnancy related conditions, ancestry, age, disability, or military service, as defined and required by state and federal laws. The district also prohibits retaliation against individuals who oppose discrimination and harassment or who participate in an equal opportunity investigation. The Springfield Public Schools Title IX Coordinator is responsible for ensuring compliance with Title IX regulations.