Prescshool Teacher / Behavior Technician Pathways Therapeutic Day School Chicago, IL Job Details Full-time $20 - $25 an hour 7 hours ago Benefits Wellness program Health insurance Dental insurance Paid time off Vision insurance Qualifications School experience Teamwork High school diploma or GED Associate's degree Early Childhood Education Full Job Description Pathways Therapeutic Day School is a small, specialized therapeutic clinic in Chicago serving preschool-aged children with Autism. We intentionally maintain a small enrollment of up to 14 families, allowing us to provide individualized attention and maintain a 2:1 staff-to-client ratio in each classroom. We are seeking compassionate, patient, and dedicated professionals with classroom experience to join our team. Pathways provides in-house training and ongoing support to ensure that all team members are prepared to provide high-quality care and therapeutic support. The ideal candidate will work closely with preschool-aged children (3yrs-5yrs) with Autism in a structured, nurturing, and therapeutic environment. This position requires a commitment to supporting each child's individual needs while maintaining professionalism and confidentiality. Key Responsibilities Classroom Management Follow and support daily classroom routines that incorporate learning, play, one-on-one instruction, therapy sessions, and scheduled activities. Maintain a safe, structured, inclusive, and organized classroom environment. Assist with transitions and ensure that classroom activities are implemented consistently. Social-Emotional Support Encourage positive peer interactions, sharing, communication, and cooperation. Support children in developing emotional regulation, independence, self-help skills, and age-appropriate social skills. Demonstrate patience, empathy, and appropriate responses to challenging situations. Progress Monitoring & Documentation Monitor developmental and behavioral progress. Complete accurate daily documentation and communicate relevant observations to supervisors. Maintain confidentiality of all client and family information. Direct Therapy Implementation Follow individualized behavior-reduction and skill-acquisition protocols under clinical supervision. Assist with implementing treatment goals designed to improve communication, socialization, adaptive skills, and independence. Data Collection Collect and record behavioral and skill-acquisition data accurately and in real time. Utilize electronic systems and other designated documentation tools to track progress toward treatment goals. Skill Acquisition Implement evidence-based ABA strategies, including techniques such as Discrete Trial Training (DTT) and Natural Environment Training (NET), as directed by the clinical team. Support the development of communication, social, academic-readiness, self-care, and adaptive skills. Behavior Reduction & Safety Implement individualized behavior support plans as directed by the clinical team. Utilize appropriate de-escalation and crisis-prevention strategies when necessary. Maintain a safe environment for clients and staff. Supervision & Professional Development Work under the direction and supervision of the Pathways clinical team, including the LCSW. Participate in required staff meetings, training, professional development, and clinical supervision. Demonstrate a willingness to learn and apply new strategies and techniques. Family Collaboration Communicate professionally and respectfully with parents, caregivers, and members of the treatment team. Assist with reinforcing appropriate behavioral and developmental strategies across home and school environments as directed by the clinical team. Maintain appropriate professional boundaries and confidentiality. Classroom Health & Safety Maintain a clean, organized, and hygienic classroom. Follow all Pathways policies, procedures, health and safety standards, and applicable childcare licensing requirements. Qualifications & Requirements Education Associate or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Special Education, Psychology, or a related field preferred. High school diploma or equivalent may be considered for candidates with relevant professional experience working with children. Experience Minimum of 1-2 years of experience working in a licensed childcare center, preschool, therapeutic school, or similar setting preferred. Experience working with preschool-aged children with Autism or other developmental disabilities strongly preferred. Skills & Professional Qualities Strong verbal and written communication skills. High emotional intelligence and the ability to remain calm and professional in challenging situations. Patience, empathy, flexibility, and a genuine interest in working with young children. Ability to work collaboratively with classroom staff and clinical professionals. Basic understanding of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) principles preferred. Ability to receive feedback, follow clinical direction, and consistently implement established protocols. Physical Requirements Ability to lift and/or carry up to 35 pounds . Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, squat, and sit or work on the floor for extended periods. Ability to safely respond to the physical and behavioral needs of young children. Why Join Pathways? At Pathways, our small enrollment allows staff to build meaningful relationships with the children and families we serve. We believe in individualized care, teamwork, professional growth, and creating a supportive environment for both our clients and our staff. If you are passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of children with Autism and are looking for an opportunity to grow within a specialized therapeutic environment, we encourage you to apply to join the Pathways team.

Pay:

$20.00 - $25.00 per hour

Benefits:

Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance Wellness program

Work Location:

In person