Autism Paraprofessional - Jersey City

As an Autism Paraprofessional at BehaviorCare, your main responsibilities will include providing applied behavior analysis (ABA) interventions to clients in a home-based setting, collecting data, and implementing individualized treatment plans designed by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). You will also coordinate with other staff to ensure consistency in programs and provide valuable feedback to parents regarding their child's daily activities.

To apply for the Autism Paraprofessional position at BehaviorCare, you should have at least one year of ABA experience and a passion for working with children facing developmental challenges. While a Registered Behavior Technician Certification (RBT) is a plus, it is not mandatory. A background check and reliable transportation are also required.

BehaviorCare offers a variety of benefits for Autism Paraprofessionals, including competitive hourly pay ranging from $24 to $30, a $500 sign-on bonus, flexible scheduling options, and comprehensive health benefits like dental, health, vision, and group life insurance for qualifying employees. Additionally, you’ll receive robust paid training that includes the opportunity to earn your Registered Behavior Technician certification.

Valuable skills for an Autism Paraprofessional at BehaviorCare include a passion for working with individuals with developmental challenges, the ability to collect and interpret data, effective communication skills to coordinate with other staff and parents, and a willingness to learn from feedback. Bilingual skills are also a plus but not required.

At BehaviorCare, the training for Autism Paraprofessionals is thorough and impactful. It includes comprehensive paid training to ensure you understand the principles of applied behavior analysis (ABA), how to implement individualized treatment plans, and the best practices for working with children with autism. Ongoing mentorship and support are key components, allowing you to grow your skills continuously.

When answering this question, think about a specific instance where you applied your skills to positively influence a child's development. Highlight the techniques used, the challenges faced, and how your approach led to a successful outcome, emphasizing the impact you made.

It's essential to remain calm and patient. Explain that you would first attempt to understand the reasons for the non-compliance, using positive reinforcement strategies to encourage cooperation. Share techniques you’ve learned or utilized in the past that helped redirect the child's focus.

Discuss specific strategies such as integrating play into learning, using interactive activities, and incorporating the child’s interests into your therapy sessions. Explain how these strategies can support a child’s engagement and learning effectively.

Consistency is crucial in behavior analysis. Explain that you would coordinate closely with other team members and keep meticulous records of the child's progress. You could also mention the importance of regular communication with parents to ensure everyone is on the same page.

Emphasize crucial qualities such as empathy, adaptability, patience, and a genuine passion for helping children with autism. You might also discuss the importance of teamwork and continuous learning in this field.

If you have, share examples of how you've collaborated with other professionals, like teachers, therapists, or medical personnel, emphasizing your ability to communicate and work towards the child’s common goals.

Talk about the methods you use for data collection, such as notes, checklists, or digital tools, to ensure effective monitoring of the child’s progress towards their goals. Mention that analyzing this data helps adjust treatment plans when necessary.

Reflect on the fulfillment that comes from making a real difference in children's lives and the opportunity for personal growth and professional development in the evolving field of behavioral analysis.

Discuss how essential parents and caregivers are as team members, sharing that you see their involvement as vital in reinforcing skills learned during therapy at home. Explain how you would communicate regularly with them about progress and ways to support their child.

Demonstrate your knowledge by discussing the principles of ABA, including how it focuses on improving specific behaviors through reinforcement strategies. Emphasize multiple studies or testimonials that attest to its effectiveness in supporting children with autism.