About FirstSteps

The FirstSteps Team is inspired by the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to achieve their fullest potential. To that end, our mission is twofold: to provide the best evidence-based, behavior analytic treatment to our children diagnosed with autism and related learning differences, and to offer a positive, collaborative, and dynamic work experience for our team. We are steadfastly committed to ongoing training and mentorship of our employees, always motivated to support the next generation of clinical leaders in our field and at FirstSteps. Our greatest reward is witnessing the rapid and joyful learning of our little ones and knowing that together, we are creating more happy days for the kids and families we serve.

We’re hosting a hiring event—come meet us and explore opportunities (open to all!) Message @firststepsforkids on Instagram to RSVP and learn more.

BCBA Program Director

A hands-on clinical role for BCBAs who are inspired by kids, understand the importance of purpose-driven, individualized treatment plans, and enjoy mentoring teams.

You didn’t become a BCBA to supervise from a laptop or sign reports for children you rarely see.

Most of us entered this field because we wanted to really know our clients, support the teams working with them, and see learning happen in real time.

Many experienced BCBAs tell us they miss that kind of work.

That’s the kind of work we protect at FirstSteps for Kids.

Our BCBAs spend most of their time in the room - observing sessions, coaching RBTs in the moment, and collaborating closely with families and clinical partners.

What you won’t find here

Oversized caseloads
Supervision done entirely through telehealth
A culture driven purely by billable hours

Instead, our Program Directors maintain manageable caseloads and a strong center-based presence, allowing you to provide thoughtful supervision and meaningful care.

Compensation

$85,000 – $95,000 annual salary (depending on experience)

PLUS:

Monetary Signing award
Ongoing Incentive opportunities

Why Many BCBAs Stay at FirstSteps

A Clinical Home

Our Walnut Creek center provides a collaborative environment where clinicians support one another and deliver thoughtful, compassionate ABA.

FirstSteps has long been a clinician-led organization, and maintaining strong clinical integrity continues to guide how we grow and serve families.

We also believe that our BCBAs doing the work every day should have a meaningful voice in how clinical care evolves.

Learn from Leaders Advancing the Field

You’ll collaborate with expert behavior analysts who are helping to shape modern ABA, including:

Courtney Tarbox— Chief Clinical Officer
Dr. Jonathan Tarbox— Director of Research

Our team has helped to initiate and advance the movement toward Compassionate Care, prioritizing both learning and wellbeing for every child receiving ABA services.

Caseloads Designed for Quality Care

We intentionally keep caseloads manageable so you can:

Truly know each child and family
Actively monitor and update treatment plans
Provide meaningful supervision to your team

Because the progress our clients make depends on the quality and thoughtfulness of the treatment we deliver.

The Role: Program Director (BCBA)

Our Program Directors are skilled behavior analysts and compassionate leaders who guide clinical programs and support the growth of their teams.

Clients are primarily children ages 2–12, served at our Walnut Creek center and/or in their homes and schools.

A Typical Week Includes

Conducting assessments and developing individualized treatment plans
Observing sessions and coaching RBTs in real time
Providing active supervision and mentorship to RBTs
Leading caregiver training and family coaching
Collaborating with SLPs, OTs, educators, and physicians
Participating in clinical trainings and research initiatives
Mentoring junior clinicians

Benefits

Health insurance with employer contribution
Dental and vision insurance with employer contribution
401(k) with company match
Ample Paid time off including floating holiday
Company-sponsored CEUs
Conference stipend and PTO for attendance
Tuition discounts for advanced degrees
Employee assistance program
Wellness incentives
Monthly Referral bonuses
Team events and community gatherings

Qualifications

We are seeking clinicians who:

Hold an active BCBA or BCBA-D credential
Have a master’s or PhD in ABA, psychology, special education, or a related field
Bring 5+ years of clinical experience, including supervising clinical programs
Are passionate about compassionate, person-centered care
Enjoy collaboration and teamwork
Are authorized to work in the United States

Ready to Apply?

If you're looking for a BCBA role where you can grow clinically, collaborate with thoughtful colleagues, and make a meaningful impact, we’d love to meet you.

Even if you’re not actively job searching, we’re always happy to connect with clinicians who care deeply about the future of our field.

If this position resonates with the kind of work you want to be doing as a BCBA, we encourage you to apply or reach out for a conversation.

We move quickly for the right candidates.

Apply today.

#firststepper

For more information about FirstSteps for Kids, we encourage you to visit our website at www.firststepsforkids.com.

Board Certified Behavior Analyst