Behavior Technician (Paraprofessional) - West Hempstead

Gersh Autism

West Hempstead (NY)

On-site

USD 22,730 - 32,373

Full time

14 days+

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Benefits offered by this job

Health Insurance

401(k) Matching

Life Insurance

Family Leave

Disability Insurance

Training & Development

Career advancement

Job summary

Gersh Autism in West Hempstead, NY seeks a compassionate Behavior Technician (Paraprofessional) to support students with autism in academic and behavioral settings. You will assist with IEP/BIP implementation, provide one-on-one and small group support, and help students with daily tasks while collaborating with teachers and behavior specialists.

Growth opportunities include completing the RBT course to advance within the behavior team and contribute to developing behavior intervention

Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent required.
Experience with children or autism is a plus but not required.
Desire to support students with autism and other developmental disabilities.
Strong communication, organization, and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

Assist the classroom teacher in implementing IEPs and BIPs.
Provide one-on-one and small group support to students.
Help students with daily tasks: communication, social interaction, self-management.
Prepare students and materials for activities and transitions.
Support students during classroom activities and field trips.
Document data on student performance and progress toward goals.
Collaborate with teachers and behavioral specialists to maintain a positive learning environment.
Communicate progress and challenges to staff.
Participate in daily training with behavioral analysts.

Skills

Strong communication

Interpersonal skills

Patience

Flexibility

Team collaboration

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associate’s degree or higher in education/psychology or related field

Job description

Behavior Technician (Paraprofessional) — West Hempstead

Gersh Autism, West Hempstead, New York, United States

For over 30 years, Gersh Autism has empowered students on the autism spectrum to reach their full potential. Serving individuals aged 5‑21 across the U.S. and Puerto Rico, our network of K-12 schools provides personalized education tailored to each student’s unique learning style. We offer comprehensive therapeutic services—speech, physical, occupational therapy, and more—along with vocational training for older students. Our dedicated team collaborates with families to ensure academic, social, and emotional growth, preparing students for success beyond the classroom. At Gersh Autism, we are committed to helping individuals on the autism spectrum lead fulfilling, independent lives.

Position Overview

We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Behavior Technician (Paraprofessional) to join our team. This role offers a chance to work directly with students, providing support in both academic and behavioral settings to help them achieve 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 the materials to work and to leave for the day with appropriate clothing, devices, and materials.
Support students during classroom activities, field trips, and other school‑related events.
Implement strategies and techniques from students' behavior intervention plan that encourage 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.

Qualifications

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.
Passion for supporting students with autism and other developmental disabilities.
Strong communication, organization, 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 timeframe.

Growth Opportunities

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 within the Gersh Autism network, including future leadership roles and specialized certifications.

Location and Schedule

West Hempstead, NY

Monday – Friday / 8:00 AM‑3:00 PM (and once a week until 4:00 PM for a team meeting). Occasional before and after school work hours, as needed.

School / Classroom setting. This is a 12‑month school program.

Physical Requirements

Must be able to keep students safe from themselves and others; may need to implement CPI procedures.
Must be able to remove oneself from potentially harmful situations, and may need to lift a child.
Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and move throughout the workday.
Ability to lift and assist (at least 50‑65 pounds) and/or physically support students, potentially 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.
Exercise sound judgment and decision‑making, particularly in high‑pressure or safety‑sensitive situations.
Work effectively as part of a team and maintain professional relationships.
Perform duties under stress, including during behavioral escalations.

Benefits for Full‑Time Employees

Gersh Autism offers a competitive compensation package, including comprehensive health and retirement benefits, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work environment committed to personal and professional growth.