Autism Classroom Teacher Assistant

Company Description

Uncommon Schools is a nonprofit network of high-performing public charter schools dedicated to providing an exceptional K-12 education in economically disadvantaged communities. Operating in Boston, Camden, New York City, Newark, and Rochester, we are committed to closing the college completion gap and preparing every student for college and beyond. Our students consistently exceed national benchmarks , reflecting our dedication to their success. We invest deeply in our educators, offering weekly coaching, feedback, and professional development to ensure excellence in teaching and leadership. Join us to work hard, do good, and make a lasting difference!

Job Description

POSITION

The Teacher Assistant position provides a unique opportunity for talented individuals with experience supporting Autistic Students in specialized settings to explore the field of education and to gain hands-on practice on supporting the mission critical work of teachers. Teacher Assistants will have an opportunity to observe best practices in classroom instruction and education reform from experienced teachers and school leaders at a leading charter management organization. Teacher Assistants will support teachers alongside a BCBA with small group instruction, discrete trial training, implementation of token boards, PECs, alternative forms of communication, behavioral support aligned to individual behavior intervention plans, grading, data analysis, and administrative support.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist teachers with instruction, behavior management, discrete trials, graphing data and other classroom responsibilities;
• Teach small groups of students;
• Observe Master Teachers in order to improve instructional techniques and classroom management;
• Provide administrative support including but not limited to copies, arrival duty, dismissal duty, organizing classroom materials, supporting in the preparation of classroom materials, etc.

As appropriate, perform all duties expected of staff, including but not limited to:

• Participating in grade-level activities, and school-wide functions, events, and trips;
• Providing consistent rewards and/or consequences for student behavior as outlined by individualized behavior intervention plans with the support of a BCBA;
• Supervising students during transitions, breakfast, lunch and afterschool;
• Communicating effectively with students, families, and colleagues;
• Participating in an annual three-week staff orientation and training as well Friday professional development sessions.

Qualifications

• Drive to improve the minds and lives of students in and out of the classroom
• Evidence of self-motivation, willingness to be a team player, and has a strong sense of personal responsibility;
• Ideal candidates are hard-working, urgent, energetic, and are willing to learn and adapt;
• Is extremely reflective and constantly wants to improve;
• is flexible and enjoys dealing with unpredictability;
• Strong time management skills; ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously and meet tight deadlines;
• A strong candidate will possess strong organizational skills, communication skills (particularly with children), and problem solving skills;
• Interest in performing a critical support role and the ability to excel in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial, results-oriented environment;
• Prior experience working in schools and/or urban communities is preferred but not required;
• Prior experience working in special class settings with Autistic students
• Relentless commitment to our mission of educating urban students. Belief in and alignment with Uncommon’s core beliefs and educational philosophy is non-negotiable;
• Bachelor’s degree is preferred, but not required. RBT training is preferred. A background in education is not required, though candidates should show a demonstrated passion for working with K-12 students.

Additional Information

Our people are what make us Uncommon. We offer competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits that support the personal health, wellness, and finances of our staff and their families. Our compensation philosophy values equity & fairness and attracting & retaining top talent.

Our Approach to AI and Your Application
At Uncommon Schools, we value thoughtful use of technology. Your responses should begin with your own thinking and reflect your authentic voice, experiences, and commitment to our mission. Generative AI can be used to refine or organize writing, but not to generate initial responses or replace your ideas. Every application is reviewed by a member of our Recruitment Team, and we are committed to understanding the person behind the application. 

Compensation

The starting compensation for this role is $47,000. The starting pay will depend on various factors including but not limited to relevant professional experience, education, certifications, and tenure with Uncommon Schools. Because we value staff tenure in a role, we do not currently cap salary ranges for current staff members.

Benefits

• Generous paid time off inclusive of sick time, paid holidays, and ~10 weeks of paid breaks (Spring, Winter, and Summer).

• Extensive, best-in-class training and development

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans + pre-tax flexible spending (FSA), dependent care (DCFSA), and health saving accounts (HSA)

• Financial Planning

  • New Jersey Pension program

• Paid leave of absence options (parental, medical, disability, etc.)

• Mental health and counseling support + wellness benefits

*A detailed list of all SY 26-27 benefits is located HERE .

At Uncommon, we believe that a supportive and welcoming environment helps our students, staff, and community thrive. We are dedicated to building a team that brings a wide range of perspectives and experiences, reflective of the communities we serve---with over 70% of our staff identifying as people of color. Our organization values respect and open dialogue on important topics that shape our school culture.

As an equal opportunity employer, Uncommon provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. We also ensure that individuals with disabilities receive all privileges and benefits associated with employment and are provided reasonable accommodations for the interview process and to perform core job functions. If you would like to request an accommodation, please email