Autism Specialist

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POSITION SUMMARY:


The position of the Autism Specialist is for the purpose of monitoring the program responsible for developing student's academic/self-help/independent functioning/ learning skills through specialized research-based strategies found beneficial for children with Autism, and providing feedback to certified staff regarding positive behavior intervention guidelines and functional analysis procedures. This position requires knowledge of and experience with currently accepted educational methodology for students with autism, characteristics of Autism Spectrum Disorders; current research regarding methodologies, interventions and treatment; behavior management strategies and techniques relating to students who experience atypical behaviors; as well as knowledge of a variety of methods of data collection and data analysis.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

* Responsible for program supervision and training DES staff in intervention techniques. Designs and implements instructional support programs for students diagnosed on the Autism Spectrum; conducts data collection and evaluation of student behaviors.


* Organizes the team to develop intervention techniques and evaluates the on-going progress of each student in the Autism program. Provides crisis intervention (counseling, behavior modification techniques, etc.) for students on an as needed basis.


* Participate in plan for the implementation and dissemination efforts of the research-based best practices on the Autism Spectrum.


* Liaises with other critical connectors to continually enhance and promote appropriate intervention programs, methods, and strategies for students.

All other duties, as assigned and required, in order to perform the above services.

KEY JOB REQUIREMENTS:

Bachelor's degree in any area of Special Education or General Education with Special Education coursework or a related field


Minimum of 3 years teaching experience in an Autism setting; knowledge of special education state and federal guidelines are required. The ability to support teachers who assess students using the Georgia Alternate Assessment is required.

Makes decisions and final recommendations which routinely affect the activities of others.


Georgia Professional Certification at a minimum level of 4 in a Special Education content field


Valid GA driver's license.

Moderate level of judgment: supervisor is available to review established broad objectives and approve executive-level decisions.

Requires regular, frequent contact with internal personnel of influence and decision-making responsibility to discuss issues of moderate importance.

Requires frequent contact with external personnel of influence and decision-making responsibility to discuss issues of moderate importance.

Requires excellent presentation, written and verbal skills; must possess strong verbal and written communication skills, be self-motivated, enjoy working in a high energy level environment and be able to manage multiple projects in a team capacity.

Applies technology concepts to improve efficiency and effectiveness of District; must be proficient with computer.

Normal school setting May requires travel for off-site locations and school site visits.

Light duty - On most occasions sitting at a desk or table; intermittently sitting, standing, or stooping Light lifting or carrying 20 lbs. or less

The 2026-2027 salary scales are not yet available. The 2025-2026 salary schedules may be accessed via the following link: 2025-2026 Teacher Salary Scale