Behavior Technician - Paraprofessional

For over 30 years, Gersh Autism has empowered students on the autism spectrum to reach their full potential. Serving individuals aged 5-21 across the U.S. and Puerto Rico, our network of K-12 schools provides personalized education tailored to each student’s unique learning style. We offer comprehensive therapeutic services—speech, physical, occupational therapy, and more—along with vocational training for older students. Our dedicated team collaborates with families to ensure academic, social, and emotional growth, preparing students for success beyond the classroom.

At Gersh Autism, we are committed to helping individuals on the autism spectrum lead fulfilling, independent lives.

*Please note, this is a year-round school program.

Academy for Young Minds (AYM), powered by Gersh, is seeking an experienced Behavior Technician (Paraprofessional) to join our team in one of our state-of- the-art classrooms in Long Island City, Queens. AYM is a private school for learners on the Autism Spectrum. This is a full-time, 12-month school calendar position.

This is an exciting opportunity for individuals passionate about making a positive impact on students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). As a Behavior Technician, you will work directly with students, providing support in both academic and behavioral settings, helping them achieve their individualized goals.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist the classroom teacher in implementing individualized education plans (IEPs) and behavior intervention plans (BIPs) for students with autism.

• Provide one-on-one and small group support to students, encouraging their academic, social, and behavioral growth.

• Help students with daily tasks, including communication, social interaction, and self-management skills.

• Support students by preparing them and materials to work and to leave for the day with appropriate clothing, devices and work. 

• Support students during classroom activities, field trips, and other school-related events.

• Implement strategies and techniques from students' behavior intervention plan that encourages self-regulation so children are available to learn.  

• Collect and document data on student performance, behavior, and progress toward goals.

• Collaborate with the teaching team and behavioral specialists to create a positive and structured learning environment.

• Communicate effectively with teachers and other school staff regarding student progress and any challenges that arise.

• Participate in daily training sessions with behavioral analysts and professional development to grow in the field.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate’s degree or higher in education, psychology, or a related field preferred.

• Experience working with children, especially those with autism or special needs, is a plus but not required.

• A passion for supporting students with autism and other developmental disabilities.

• Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to remain patient, empathetic, and flexible in various situations.

• Willingness to take a course and complete testing to become a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) within a specified time frame.

Growth Opportunities:

• Upon completion of the RBT course and certification, Behavior Technicians will have opportunities to take on more responsibilities within the classroom, work directly with the behavior team, and contribute to developing behavior intervention strategies.

• Potential for career advancement in education and behavioral therapy fields within the Gersh Autism network, including future leadership roles and specialized certifications.

Location: Long Island City, NY

• Monday – Friday / 8:00am – 3:00pm (and once a week until 4PM for a team meeting)

• Occasional before and after school work hours at the discretion of the Administrative staff

• School / Classroom setting

• This is a 12-month school program

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to keep students safe from themselves and others and, in some cases, may need to implement CPI (therapeutic holds) procedures. 
• Must be able to remove oneself from potentially harmful situations and, in some cases, be able to lift a child. 
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and move throughout the workday
• Ability to lift (at least 50-65 pounds), assist, and/or physically support students, which may include lifting or guiding students of varying sizes
• Ability to physically intervene when required to ensure safety (per CPI training)
• Ability to remove oneself and/or others from unsafe situations quickly
• Ability to maintain attention and focus in a dynamic, high-stimulation environment
• Ability to multi-task and shift priorities quickly
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and decision-making, particularly in high-pressure or safety-sensitive situations
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team and maintain professional relationships
• Ability to perform duties under stress, including during behavioral escalations

Benefits for Full Time Employees

Gersh Autism offers a competitive compensation package, including comprehensive health and retirement benefits, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work environment committed to your personal and professional growth. 

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (401k matching)
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
• Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
• Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
• Training & Development