Not a traditional caregiver role
This is a therapeutic support and coaching position, not a generic caregiving role. The right person works as an active partner in this young man’s learning and daily life, alongside his family and a behavior consultant. If you are looking for a companion or home health aide role, this is not the right fit.
The strongest candidates
- Are currently enrolled in or have completed studies in psychology, special education, social work, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, behavior analysis (ABA / BCBA / RBT), or related fields
- Have therapeutic experience (ABA, DIR/Floortime, behavioral interventions, school-based special education, social skills programs)
- Or have meaningful personal experience supporting someone with autism or developmental differences, combined with curiosity and discipline
Formal experience is preferred but not required if the mindset is right.
About the client
A 28-year-old man with autism, verbally communicative and highly empathetic. He reads people very well and responds best to a calm, warm, soft-spoken, easy-to-read style, not a forceful or directive one. He loves cooking, music, and movement (including dancing), and enjoys community life in Manhattan: classes, parks, museums, stores, cultural outings. He thrives on orderly routines and on clear communication when something changes.
What you will do
- Be his 1:1 partner during the workday, actively engaged in cooking, music, movement, and community activities (not in a supervisory role)
- Take notes, track progress, and share structured observations with the family and the behavior consultant
- Participate in regular coaching sessions with the consultant and contribute to ongoing therapeutic programs (including a current desensitization plan for a medical device)
- Accompany him on classes and community outings around Manhattan
- Model an active lifestyle through frequent walking and outdoor activity
- Communicate openly with the family, including the occasional message outside standard hours when something relevant comes up
What we are looking for
- High agency and initiative, combined with openness to feedback and team collaboration
- Expressive, warm, easy-to-read communication style
- Calm, gentle, patient approach
- Physically active
- Curious, with interests outside of work
- Honest about your time horizon. Candidates who can commit to one to two years are welcome, even if longer-term plans differ
Compensation and conditions
- $35/hour base, with room for additional compensation based on qualifications and experience, discussed directly with the family
- 30 to 40 hours per week, flexible schedule that can accommodate school or other recurring commitments
- Paid holidays and sick time
- Access to coaching sessions and learning opportunities with the behavior consultant
- Long-term role with a family that treats their team as part of their family
- Position hired through a state-licensed Fiscal Intermediary; background check, fingerprinting, and state clearance for direct support roles required at the appropriate stage
How to apply
Share your resume, your availability, and any relevant background (studies, internships, therapy hours, or personal experience). References will be requested later in the process.
Equal opportunity employer. All qualified candidates considered regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
