ABA Behavior Technician (Behavior Therapist)

Department: Student Services/Schools


FLSA Status (Exempt/Non-exempt): Non-Exempt; Unit C

Reports to: Principal or other

In compliance with state and federal laws, Newton Public Schools is committed to equity, anti-racism and a nondiscrimination policy for students, employees and prospective applicants. All educational and employment determinations are based on an individual's qualifications and achievements without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, pregnancy, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, ancestry, homelessness, physical or mental disability, veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by state and/or federal statute.

SUMMARY: This position provides a variety of services to students in a classroom and school-based environment.

Qualifications:


Required Qualifications:

• 1-3 years previous experience working with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders, Developmental Delay or Emotional/Behavioral Disorders in an educational setting.
• Training and experience using the tenets and techniques of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is required, or a willingness to be trained.
• Completion of a bachelor's degree is required. Degree in education, special education or related fields such as psychology, and training in Applied Behavior Analysis is required. We are looking for exceptional professionals who are committed to excellence and can use their skill sets to support our students. If you have the relevant experience and are currently enrolled in a degree program, we encourage you to apply, regardless of your background. Take the first step towards a rewarding career with Newton Public Schools.

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities (Not Limited To):

All the requirements of the position:

• An evolving familiarity with Language Arts, Mathematics and Content Area knowledge base relevant to the educational level of the student. Thus, candidates should be committed to becoming familiar with modifying curriculum to align with the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks. Verbal, written language, technology skill and interpersonal communication skill to support communication among team members, with community contacts, school staff and parents is required.
• Implement academic, social language and behavioral programming using the methodology of ABA for individuals who have developmental disorders, autism spectrum disorders, or emotional/ behavioral disorders.
• Create teaching materials that align with academic, social-language and behavioral programming.
• Assist in functional assessment and analysis and deliver behavior programming to individuals using the methodology of ABA Report to supervisor level behavior analysts and utilize feedback to refine, change and further modify academic and behavior programs to best meet student needs with minimal supervision.
• Maintain a program book and summarize and visually represent academic and behavioral programming weekly.
• Support students during transitions between classes, beginning and ending of the day, at recess, specials, lunch and snack to optimize social interactions and social pragmatic instruction in real life situations throughout the school day using methodology of ABA.These positions may require home based or extended day services and require travel within the local area.
• Assist in all aspects of the school day whether or not such aspects directly pertain to the individual student, this includes supervision at recess, lunch or other "duties."
• Responsible for implementing "other job related duties" as needed
• Consistent, reliable and punctual attendance is essential for supervision and instruction of the students

Work Environment & Physical Requirements:

Work Environment:

• Must be physically able to respond (e.g. push, pull, or carry at least 60 lbs) to students who are physically unsafe and use physical restraints as part of a de-escalation process.
• Must be able to physically respond to students who have bolted from the building.
• Must be able to physically maintain a safe learning environment, including moving furniture in response to a crisis situation.
• Regularly required to lift and/or move objects weighing up to 25 pounds.