Virtual Reality Specialist - BCBA preferred

Overview Of Position

The Virtual Reality (VR) Specialist will design, implement, and monitor VR-based initiatives supporting clinical services for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder. They will partner with clinical services associates to ensure ethical, effective, safe, and individualized virtual services. The role emphasizes supporting ESSC's mission and values through a high-quality, person-centered service environment.

Essential Functions

• Maintains a tracking system for VR hardware and software across multiple locations and clinical staff.
• Collaborates with IT to ensure adequate equipment availability and condition.
• Sets up and configures VR hardware, software, and online platforms, providing technical support to clinical services associates.
• Designs and monitors workflows for VR equipment and resources needed by clinicians.
• Serves as the liaison for virtual reality vendors.
• Project management lead for developing custom VR lessons and modules, including user acceptance testing and roll-out of VR initiatives.
• Maintains and documents project budgets, resource allocation, and timelines to ensure adherence to project goals and organizational priorities.
• Collects and presents quantitative and qualitative data to report to Autism Services Leadership.
• Facilitates communication between teams to ensure accurate information exchange.
• Develops clinical protocols for incorporating VR into ABA, Speech, and OT sessions and groups, with participants and caregivers to meet independence goals across developmental domains.
• Conducts training, using didactic and hands-on methods, including providing 1:1 support, coaching, observation, goal setting, and feedback to increase clinician competency in implementing VR.
• Develops learning materials to enhance clinician competency and fluency.
• Organizes and provides group training and workshops related to VR implementation and best practices.
• Partners with clinicians to ensure virtual reality readiness and assists in tailoring VR experiences to participant needs.
• Evaluates program initiatives and outcomes, identifying areas for improvement and new opportunities.
• Collates feedback from stakeholders to ensure needs and concerns are documented and considered for continued improvement.
• Provides recommendations for improvement, expansion, and service excellence.
• Stays updated on advancements and peer-reviewed research regarding VR, Autism, and other developmental disabilities.
• Aids in various administrative, technical, or clinical tasks as required to ensure the success of VR-based initiatives.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree required, preferably in fields related to core competencies.
• Preferred Project Management Certificate.
• Experience: 4-6 years or equivalent combination of education and experience working with children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders in a multi-disciplinary team setting.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

• Advanced knowledge of evidenced-based interventions and approaches found to benefit children with ASD, familiarity with current related research findings.
• Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office Applications (Outlook, Word, Excel, etc.).
• Skills in approaches to intervention, including Applied Behavior Analysis, Speech Therapy, and Occupational Therapy.
• Fluency in utilizing virtual reality systems.
• Strong clinical, administrative, and leadership skills.
• Written and verbal communication skills.
• Knowledge of maintaining sensitive and confidential health records.
• Project management skills such as time management and deliverables tracking.
• Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams to achieve shared goals.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a criminal record/fingerprint clearance from the Department of Justice and Federal Bureau of Investigation, per ESSC and/or program requirements.
• Ability to maintain a driving record in compliance with Transportation Safety Standards; maintain auto insurance and vehicle registration.

Physical Requirements

• Carrying/Lifting: Occasional / Up to 30 lbs.
• Standing: Occasional / Up to 4 hours per day.
• Sitting: Constant / Up to 8 hours per day.
• Walking: Occasional / Up to 4 hours per day.
• Travel: Occasional to program and office locations.
• Repetitive Motion/Activity: Occasional bending, reaching, stooping, squatting, kneeling, grasping, lifting, twisting, keyboard activity, telephone use, writing.
• Visual Acuity: Ability to view computer monitor, tablets, and read print.
• Environmental Exposure: Office, home, and community environments.