Jobs · OTHR · Virginia

Child Development Specialist

Positive Development · Arlington, VA · 3 wk ago
On-siteOTHR$22–$28/hrPart-time

About the Role

Work one-on-one with autistic children in their homes and/or center based to build communication, social, and daily living skills through play-based, relationship-focused interactions. This is an active coaching role, not passive observation, with direct support from experienced clinicians and supervisors.

What You'll Do

  • 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

Who We're Looking For

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.

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 setting

Requirements

  • High School Diploma or GED (must be 18+)
  • Valid driver's license + 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

Pay and Schedule

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

This role is ideal for students balancing classes, internships, or graduate school.

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

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