Play-Based Therapist (Paid Training)

Cortica - Neurodevelopmental; Naperville (IL); On-site; USD 29,000 - 37,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully Paid Training & Certification

Referral Bonus

Cell Phone Stipend

Mileage Reimbursement

401(k) with Company Matching

Professional Development and Career Ld

Job summary

Cortica is seeking dedicated Behavior Technicians to design and deliver life-changing care for children with neurodevelopmental differences in Naperville, IL. You will provide 1:1 and group ABA services, collaborating with BCBAs and families to support meaningful progress.

We offer fully paid training, BCAT exam review, and a path toward BCBA advancement. Expect a flexible schedule with part-time options and a direct pay rate based on experience, plus professional development opportunities.

Qualifications

• Experience working with children (autism is a plus).
• High School Diploma or higher (bachelor’s or master’s not required).
• Willingness to obtain BCAT credential within 90 days of start date (training provided).
• Ability to travel between client sites within a 30–40 minute radius with reliable transportation.
• Proficiency with EMR systems and Microsoft Office tools.

Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 and group behavior-analytic services to children with autism and other neurodevelopmental differences.
• Implement positive behavior strategies developed with your BCBA.
• Use evidence-based practices to create meaningful progress for families.
• Document session data to track and support treatment goals.
• Collaborate closely with families and supervisors to build supportive environments.
• Follow Cortica's crisis protocols, including de-escalation and mandated reporting.

Skills

Child interaction

BCAT readiness

Travel ability

Tech proficiency

Education

High School Diploma or higher

Tools

EMR software

Microsoft Office

Job description

Title: Behavior Technician (Naturalistic, Play-Based ABA)

Cortica is looking for dedicated, compassionate Behavior Technicians to join our growing team and help us design and deliver life-changing care for children with neurodevelopmental differences. At Cortica, we don’t just offer jobs; we offer careers with purpose, growth, and support.

What We Offer

• Pay Range: $ 20.21 to $27.11 per hour, based on experience and education.
• Thoughtfully Designed Schedules: We offer a predictable schedule with a single, direct rate of pay, including:
• Part-time roles with flexible 5-, 3- or 2-day-per-week options.
• Opportunities to pick up additional hours on Saturdays
• Fully Paid Training & Certification: Kickstart your career with Cortica with a comprehensive 2-week, in-person orientation that includes hands‑on training, a Board‑Certified Autism Technician (BCAT) exam review, and full coverage of your exam fees. We’re invested in your success from day one.
• Referral Bonus: Earn between $250-$500 for successful referrals.
• Cell Phone Stipend: Stay connected with support from us.
• Paid Drive Time and Mileage Reimbursement: We value your time on the road and include toll reimbursement in select areas.
• 401(k) with Company Matching: Secure your future with our generous plan.
• Ongoing Professional Development: Access continuous training through in-person and online opportunities.
• Supportive Environment: Collaborate with and receive expert coaching from Lead BTs, ABA Assistant Supervisors, and ABA Supervisors who champion your growth.
• Career Advancement: Opportunities to grow your career by advancing to a BCBA role, ascending the Behavior Technician Clinical Ladder, or serving in a corporate support role.
• Learn from Experts in Other Fields: Partner with BCBAs and experts in speech-language therapy, music therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy as well as counselors, pediatricians, neurologists, and nurse practitioners.

Your Impact & Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 and group behavior-analytic services to children with autism and other neurodevelopmental differences.
• Implement positive behavior strategies developed with your BCBA.
• Use evidence-based practices to create meaningful progress for families.
• Document session data to track and support treatment goals.
• Collaborate closely with families and supervisors to build supportive environments.
• Follow Cortica's crisis protocols, including de-escalation and mandated reporting.

Who We’re Looking For

• Experience working with children (experience with autism is a plus!).
• High School or equivalent, bachelor’s or master’s degree.
• Willingness to obtain your BCAT credential within 90 days of your start date (We provide all training!).
• Ability to consistently travel between client sites within a 30–40-minute radius using reliable transportation.
• Tech-savvy with EMR systems and Microsoft Office tools.

Our Inclusive Culture

• Transdisciplinary Approach: Collaborate with experts in various fields to care for the whole child.
• Collaborative Process: Develop individualized care plans alongside families and clinicians.
• Strength-Based, Neurodiversity-Affirming Model: Focus on building on each child’s unique strengths rather than emphasizing deficits.

Join Cortica’s team and make a meaningful impact by applying a strength-based, neurodiversity-affirming ABA therapy model. Help children recognize and build on their unique abilities, fostering positive relationships and skills that translate across home, school, and community settings. Be part of a progressive approach that combines neuroscience and developmental models to empower each child to thrive.

Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). For more details, visit the full job description here.

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Driving Requirement

This position requires the successful completion of a post-offer background check and a motor vehicle report review.