The Research Assistant - Paraprofessional will work within a multidisciplinary team to assist an assigned student with all aspects of their Individualized Education Program (IEP) throughout the day. The student population is primarily non-verbal and non-ambulatory (in a wheelchair). This position plays a crucial role in supporting the student during academic and therapy sessions, ensuring safe repositioning and transfers, and assisting with self-care. Additionally, the role involves supporting research efforts related to the student. Successful candidates should have a background in neuroscience, psychology, social work, nursing, pre-medicine, or related fields, and demonstrate strong strategic focus, leadership, effective communication, and accountability.
Please send a resume and cover letter to Jobs@ibrainnyc.org
Responsibilities
- Work under the supervision of the Deputy Director of Special Education and Associate Paraprofessional Special Education Director.
- Collaborate closely with the student’s multidisciplinary team, including special education teachers, therapists, nurses, and medical staff.
- Support the student inside and outside the classroom to enable full participation in activities and support during academic and related services.
- Attend to the student’s emotional, physical, and personal needs, including toileting, feeding, transferring, and supporting with equipment.
- Assist during aquatic therapy, including entering and standing in 3 feet of water.
- Collect and analyze data to support the student’s IEP goals and health-related benchmarks.
- Participate in group meetings and seminars.
- Perform additional duties as assigned by the multidisciplinary team.
- Demonstrate motivation to learn new skills and knowledge.
- Use sound judgment and foster teamwork and cooperation.
- Organize and maintain equipment and supplies.
- Check and respond to emails promptly.
- Assist with instructional activities during free time and participate in progress monitoring data collection.
- Support students during doctor visits, field trips, and telehealth services.
- Prepare and organize instructional materials.
- Be able to lift at least 50 lbs., transfer, and support students during related service sessions.
- Prepare and submit daily wellness reports, including body checks and wheelchair checks.
- Collaborate with the nurse to submit seizure reports with media as applicable.
- Participate in Grand Rounds, including preparing slides, attending training, and presenting quarterly.
- Attend regular research meetings and understand the student’s IEP to formulate research questions.
- Complete annual research integrity training and CITI modules for human subjects protection.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in neuroscience, psychology, social work, nursing, pre-medicine, or related field.
- Ability to pass all eLearning Short Courses in Clinical Research from The Global Health Training Centre.
- Excellent communication skills.
- Ability to lift and carry at least 50 pounds independently.
- Detail-oriented, motivated, and team-oriented.
- Strong interpersonal skills, tact, and diplomacy.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
- Passion for iBRAIN’s mission and commitment to quality.
- Fluency in Spanish is a plus.
- A sense of humor.
- Health and vision insurance, paid time off included.
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