Virtual Reality Specialist - BCBA preferred

Overview Of Position

The Virtual Reality (VR) Specialist will design, implement, and monitor VR-based initiatives that support clinical services for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder. They will act as a strategic partner to clinical services associates, ensuring that virtual services are ethical, effective, safe, and tailored to each participant. The position supports ESSC's mission and values by fostering a high-quality, person-centered service environment.

Essential Functions

• Maintains a tracking system for VR hardware and software deployment and provisioning across multiple locations and clinical staff.
• Partners with IT to ensure adequate equipment availability and functionality.
• 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 the development of custom VR lessons and modules, including user acceptance testing and roll-out of VR initiatives.
• Maintains 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 promote independence 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.
• Assists clinicians in preparing for and tailoring VR experiences to participant needs.
• Evaluates program initiatives and outcomes, identifying areas for improvement and new opportunities.
• Collates feedback from stakeholders to document and consider needs and concerns for continuous improvement.
• Provides recommendations for improvement, expansion, and service excellence.
• Stays updated on the latest developments 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.

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 beneficial for children with ASD, familiarity with current related research findings.
• Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office Applications (Outlook, Word, Excel, etc.).
• Skills in 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.