Specialized Caregiver- IDD and Autism

Job Description

Job Description

Position Summary

Butterfly Home Care – Northwest DFW is seeking compassionate, dependable, and patient Specialized Caregivers – IDD & Autism to provide individualized, person-centered care and support to children and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), autism, and related support needs.

This role is designed for someone who understands that every individual is unique. The Specialized Caregiver provides hands-on support, companionship, and assistance with daily activities while helping clients build confidence, develop life skills, increase independence, and participate in meaningful activities at home and in the community.

The ideal candidate is patient, nurturing, dependable, and comfortable working with individuals who may have communication differences, sensory needs, behavioral challenges, or varying levels of independence.

Essential Responsibilities Personalized Care & Support

• Provide compassionate, respectful, and individualized care based on each client's needs and care plan.
• Assist with activities of daily living, personal care, hygiene, meals, and other approved tasks.
• Provide companionship, supervision, and positive engagement.
• Maintain a safe, supportive, and respectful environment.
• Follow individualized care plans and company policies.

IDD & Autism Support

• Support individuals with autism and IDD in a patient, respectful, and strengths-based manner.
• Recognize and respond appropriately to individual communication, sensory, social, and behavioral needs.
• Follow established strategies and routines outlined in the client's care plan.
• Maintain consistency and structure while remaining flexible to the individual's needs.
• Use positive, encouraging approaches to promote confidence and independence.
• Recognize changes in behavior, mood, or needs and communicate concerns appropriately.

Life Skills & Independence

• Encourage clients to participate in age-appropriate daily activities.
• Assist individuals in developing and practicing life skills such as personal organization, meal preparation, grooming, communication, and household routines.
• Encourage clients to complete tasks independently whenever safely possible.
• Support decision-making, self-expression, and age-appropriate independence.
• Celebrate progress and accomplishments, including small milestones.

Community & Social Engagement

• Encourage participation in recreational, educational, social, and community activities.
• Support clients during approved community outings and activities.
• Promote social interaction, inclusion, and meaningful engagement.
• Help individuals develop confidence and independence in community settings.

Family & Team Communication

• Communicate respectfully and professionally with families, care coordinators, and other members of the care team.
• Report significant changes, concerns, incidents, or safety issues promptly.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation of services provided.
• Maintain strict confidentiality regarding client and family information.

Qualifications Required

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Experience working with children, individuals with disabilities, or individuals with autism preferred.
• Ability to demonstrate patience, empathy, and professionalism.
• Ability to follow individualized care plans and company procedures.
• Reliable transportation.
• Ability to successfully complete required background checks and onboarding requirements, including obtaining a TB test.
• Ability to meet the physical requirements of the position.

Preferred Experience

Experience as a:

• Caregiver
• Direct Support Professional (DSP)
• Special Education Paraprofessional
• Behavioral Technician
• Childcare Professional
• Personal Care Assistant
• Respite Care Provider
• Autism/IDD Support Professional

CPR/First Aid certification and specialized training in autism, IDD, behavioral support, or related areas are a plus.

Ideal Candidate

We are looking for someone who is:

• Patient and compassionate
• Reliable and dependable
• Calm and supportive
• Comfortable working with children and individuals with disabilities
• Respectful of individual differences
• Creative and engaging
• A strong communicator
• Committed to promoting independence
• Willing to learn and receive ongoing training
• Passionate about helping others thrive

Physical & Work Environment

This position may require the caregiver to work in private homes and community settings and may include standing, walking, bending, kneeling, sitting, and assisting with daily activities as appropriate to the client's care plan.

Caregivers must be able to respond appropriately to unexpected situations while maintaining the safety, dignity, and well-being of the client.

Why Join Butterfly Home Care?

At Butterfly Home Care, we believe caregiving is about more than completing tasks. It's about helping people live fuller, more independent, and more connected lives.

As a Specialized Caregiver – IDD & Autism, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the life of a child or individual and become an important part of their support system.