New Alternatives for Children, Inc. (NAC) is an award winning child welfare, health and social service agency in NYC with 35 years of experience in serving children with special needs and their families.

The Autism Family Support Specialist supports the agency by helping to manage youngsters with challenging behaviors participating in all program related activities; supervising family visits in the Foster Care Program, specifically visits that require behavioral management; and supporting diversified recreation activities, groups and special events. S/he will become familiar and knowledgeable about the organization, the function of each department, and related policies and procedures. This position supports N.A.C.’s mission to provide the highest quality of care by complying with regulatory guidelines and meeting child welfare industry standards.

Responsibilities:

• Report to office to support the Family Support Department with all daily tasks
• Assist in managing children who have autism and all of its related activities.
• Supervise children and families during Foster Care visits.
• Appropriately and consistently document and otherwise communicate feedback regarding family visits and recreation activities.
• May be asked to assist Recreation staff with planning and overseeing trips, groups, and special events.
• Assist youth with getting to/from and participating in services. Requires staff to stay close and quickly respond if youth need assistance.
• Ensure that appropriate written records are kept about trips, activities, and services.
• Support all in office requests, which will include the organization and data collection of donations (clothing and toy drives), supporting N.A.C.’s food pantry, etc.
• In the future, will be expected to support after school program which may include: homework help, light snacks, provide developmentally appropriate activities, etc.
• Performs additional responsibilities in accordance with agency needs.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Social work, or other relevant field preferred. ABA certification or ABA paraprofessional is a plus
  
• Familiarity with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Must have training or experience with behavioral interventions, sensory needs, communication systems, social skills interventions and basic adaptive daily living skills.
• Familiarity with the diverse recreational opportunities that exist in New York City.
• Ability and willingness to work a flexible schedule – particularly evenings and Saturdays.
• Individuals with interest in servicing clients in the social services industry, clients in low SES (Socioeconomic status) and a passion to serve children.
•  Must have experience working with children.

Preferred:

• Ability to communicate in Spanish is a plus.
• Prior experience in working with children in the child welfare system
• Familiarity with the diverse recreational opportunities that exist in New York City.
• CPR and first aid training are required prior to or immediately following employment.
• Experience supporting people with autism
• Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) trained, ABA paraprofessional, experience in Special Education classroom (teacher, T.A. or paraprofessional), camp counselor for children with special needs, or any related experience with children who have autism is a plus.