Child Development Specialist

About the role

At Positive Development, we work one-on-one with autistic children, helping them build communication, social, and daily living skills through play-based, relationship-focused interactions. This isn’t a passive “observe and assist” job. You’ll be actively coaching, connecting, and helping children grow while gaining experience relevant for careers in psychology, social work, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, education and special education, counseling, and medicine and health.

Why This Role Is Different

• You’ll gain hands-on experience directly applicable to future careers in human development and related fields.
• You’ll be supported by experienced clinicians and supervisors invested in your growth.
• This work is deeply rewarding but requires patience, emotional maturity, and commitment.

We’re Especially Excited To Meet Candidates Who Are

• Passionate about working with children and teens
• Curious about human development and learning
• Patient, empathetic, and enthusiastic
• Reliable and committed to a consistent schedule (kids depend on consistency!)
• Comfortable working directly with families in home-based settings

Great fits include education majors, psychology students, pre-meds, nursing students, OT/SLP hopefuls, behavior technicians, camp counselors, teacher’s assistants, childcare providers, direct support professionals, and caregivers.

What You'll Do

• Work one-on-one with children in their homes and/or center-based settings to build communication, social, and daily living skills through play, conversation, and shared activities
• Create meaningful connections that help children think, create, and engage with the world
• Follow a relationship-based intervention model designed to achieve strong outcomes with fewer session hours
• Track progress by documenting session notes and goal outcomes
• Collaborate closely with clinicians and supervisors to build clinical skills and confidence
• Learn how evidence-based developmental care works in real life, not just in textbooks

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED (must be 18+)
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation (30–40 min drive radius)
• Ability to complete physical tasks, including:
  • Playing on the floor/ground for up to two–three hours per session
  • Lifting/carrying up to 40 lbs
  • Sitting, kneeling, crouching, or moving quickly to ensure child safety
• Strong communication skills and professionalism with families and teammates

Training, Growth, And Career Development

• Paid New Hire Training
• Ongoing coaching and mentorship from expert clinicians
• Opportunities for role progression, pay increases, and performance bonuses
• Exposure to a cutting-edge model of autism care with measurable outcomes

Benefits And Perks

• $1000 Referral Bonus
• Monthly Technology Stipend
• Paid drive time at admin rate + mileage reimbursement between clients
• Paid training
• Strong performers may request letters of recommendation for graduate or professional programs

Pay

• Direct Pay: $22–$28/hour (based on experience and education)
• Training / Admin Pay: $20/hour
• Paid drive time + mileage reimbursement (IRS rate) between clients

Schedule

• Part-time schedules: 3, 4, or 5 days per week M–F (most available hours are 3pm–8pm)
• Or Saturday and Sunday (most available hours are between 9am–3pm)