Teaching Assistant for Student with Autism

Crossroads Center for Children is seeking compassionate, energetic, and dedicated Teaching Assistants to support students with Autism Spectrum Disorder in a highly collaborative educational environment.

About the Role

As a Teaching Assistant, you will work closely with Special Education Teachers, Behavior Analysts, therapists, and other professionals to help students develop academic, communication, social, and daily living skills while ensuring a safe and positive learning environment. We have both a preschool (ages 2-5) and early elementary (ages 5-9) classrooms.

Schedule

• Full-Time: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM - 3:30 PM. Eligible for paid time off and benefits.
• Part-Time: Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM - 2:45 PM. Eligible for paid time off and benefits. Benefit premiums are higher than those offered to full-time employees.
• Per-Diem: Flexible schedule. Set your own availability. Ideal for college students, retirees, or those seeking supplemental income. Not eligible for benefits or paid time off.

Responsibilities

• Support students in the classroom and throughout the school day.
• Assist with implementing educational and behavioral programs designed to meet each student's Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals.
• Utilize Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) strategies and behavior support plans.
• Collect and record student performance and behavior data.
• Help prepare classroom materials and maintain an organized learning environment.
• Assist students with communication, socialization, and skill development activities.
• Collaborate with teachers, therapists, and behavior specialists to promote student success.
• Support students during classroom activities, transitions, and special events.
• Assist with toileting, diapering, and personal care needs as required.
• Help maintain classroom cleanliness and sanitize toys and equipment.
• Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development opportunities.
• Maintain the safety, dignity, and well-being of all students.
• Serve as a mandated reporter and maintain confidentiality at all times.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Ability to work effectively with children who have developmental disabilities and diverse learning needs.
• Strong communication, organizational, and teamwork skills.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and implement educational programs consistently.
• Commitment to maintaining a positive, professional, and student-centered approach.
• New York State Teaching Assistant Certification (or ability to obtain an approved NYS teaching credential) required within the first 6 months of employment.

Physical Requirements

• Sit, stand, walk, bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, and crawl as needed.
• Maintain full use of vision, hearing, speech, and tactile senses.
• Safely assist students with daily living activities.
• Implement crisis prevention and intervention procedures when necessary.
• Supervise students in classroom, playground, and community settings.

Why Join Us

• Make a meaningful impact in the lives of children with Autism.
• Work alongside experienced educators, therapists, and behavior specialists.
• Receive onboarding training and other professional development opportunities.
• Be part of a supportive, mission-driven team.
• Flexible employment options to fit your schedule and career goals.

Benefits

Time Off & Work Schedule

• Year-round school calendar with school-scheduled holidays and vacation periods (32 paid days off).
• 4 personal days annually.
• 9 sick days annually.
• Paid snow days, school delays, and emergency school closings as applicable.

Health & Insurance Benefits

• Medical Insurance through MVP Health Care.
• Dental Insurance through Delta Dental.
• Vision Insurance through Davis Vision.
• Supplemental Insurance options through AFLAC.
• Pet Insurance through Nationwide My Pet Protection.
• Legal and Identity Protection plans available.
• Online identity theft protection services.

Wellness & Lifestyle Benefits

• NB Fitness Program with flexible gym membership options:
  • Access to a nationwide network of 17,500+ participating fitness centers and over 9,000 on-demand workout videos.
• 24/7 Roadside Assistance.
• Global Travel Assistance when traveling more than 100 miles from home.
• 24/7 NB Pet Telehealth access to licensed veterinarians.

Retirement Benefits

• 403(b) retirement savings plan.
• Pension plan with full vesting after 6 years of service at Crossroads.

Professional Development

• Up to 60% tuition reimbursement for approved coursework.
• Employer-paid attendance at approved Crossroads-related conferences, including Continuing Education Credits (CEUs).

Employee Support

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) fully funded by Crossroads:
  • Access to counseling, financial planning, meal planning, and other personal support services.
• Employee Recognition Program:
  • Puzzle Bucks awarded for going above and beyond. Each Puzzle Buck earned equals 0.25 hours of paid time off.
  • Employees may earn up to 3 additional paid days off per year through the program.