Lead Classroom Teacher

Job Description

Job Description

Classroom Lead Teacher

Reports To: Clinical Director / BCBA

Position Summary

The Classroom Lead Teacher oversees daily operations of an ABA-based classroom while supporting learners' educational, behavioral, social, and adaptive skill development. This role serves as the primary classroom leader, ensuring implementation of individualized programming, staff support, behavior intervention procedures, and a positive learning environment.

The Classroom Lead Teacher collaborates closely with Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs), families, and interdisciplinary team members to ensure high-quality, compassionate, evidence-based services for all learners.

Minimum Qualifications

• Associate or Bachelor's degree in Education, Special Education, Psychology, Applied Behavior Analysis, Child Development, Human Services, or a related field  OR
• Currently enrolled in and actively pursuing a degree in a related field
• Must possess an active Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) credential or obtain certification within 90 days of hire
• Ability to pass state and federal background checks
• CPR and First Aid Certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire)
• Experience working with children with autism and/or developmental disabilities preferred

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Classroom Leadership

• Lead daily classroom routines, schedules, and instructional activities.
• Maintain a safe, structured, and engaging learning environment.
• Support classroom staff in implementing individualized treatment goals and behavior intervention plans.
• Assist with classroom organization, materials preparation, and environmental arrangements.
• Promote learner dignity, assent-based practices, and positive behavior support.

Clinical and Educational Support

• Implement ABA teaching procedures as directed by supervising BCBAs.
• Support skill acquisition programs targeting communication, social, adaptive, academic, and behavioral goals.
• Collect and review learner data to ensure programming is implemented with fidelity.
• Assist with classroom-based assessments and progress monitoring.
• Collaborate with BCBAs regarding learner progress and program modifications.

Staff Support and Mentorship

• Serve as a role model for professional and ethical service delivery.
• Provide classroom guidance and coaching under the direction of supervising BCBAs.
• Promote teamwork, collaboration, and positive communication among staff members.

Family and Professional Collaboration

• Maintain professional communication with caregivers and team members.
• Participate in team meetings, supervision meetings, and professional development activities.
• Support parent training initiatives when directed by supervising clinicians.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong classroom management and organizational skills
• Understanding of Applied Behavior Analysis principles
• Ability to lead a team while maintaining a collaborative approach
• Effective verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to remain calm and professional during challenging situations
• Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities

Physical Requirements

• Ability to actively engage with children throughout the day
• Ability to sit, stand, kneel, bend, and move quickly when necessary
• Ability to lift, transfer, or assist children when required
• Ability to implement approved safety and crisis procedures when necessary

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree completed in a related field
• Active RBT credential
• Experience leading a classroom, center-based ABA program, preschool classroom, or special education setting
• Interest in pursuing BCaBA, BCBA, education licensure, or leadership opportunities
  

This position provides an opportunity to develop leadership skills while supporting learners through evidence-based, compassionate, and individualized programming. Classroom Lead Teachers play a critical role in maintaining the culture, quality, and success of the classroom environment.