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Autism Support Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Autism Support Specialist (ABA) ,

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$23.75 - $31.50/hr

aba360 is seeking Support Professionals for Autism in Glen Gardner, NJ. This role offers a chance to make a meaningful impact by providing one-on-one services to children with Autism. Ideal for those ...

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Autism Support Specialist information

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$24

$45

How much do autism support specialist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for autism support specialist in the United States is $24.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $28.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Autism Support Specialists?

Autism Support Specialists are professionals who work with individuals on the autism spectrum to help them develop social, communication, academic, and life skills. They provide tailored support in educational, clinical, or home settings, often collaborating with families, teachers, and other therapists. Their goal is to help clients achieve greater independence and improve their quality of life through individualized interventions and support strategies.

How to become an autism support specialist?

To become an autism support specialist, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with many roles requiring postsecondary education such as an associate's or bachelor's degree in special education, psychology, or a related field. Certification or training in autism spectrum disorder interventions, such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), can enhance job prospects, and some states or employers may require background checks or specific licenses.

How does an Autism Support Specialist typically collaborate with teachers and families to support individuals with autism?

Autism Support Specialists work closely with both teachers and families to develop and implement individualized support plans that address each person's unique needs. They often facilitate communication between home and school, offer strategies for managing behaviors, and provide resources or training to caregivers and educators. Regular meetings and progress updates ensure everyone is aligned and able to adjust strategies as needed, fostering a collaborative environment that maximizes the individual's success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Autism Support Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Autism Support Specialist, you need a background in special education, psychology, or a related field, often supported by relevant certifications such as Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) or training in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Familiarity with data collection tools, behavior intervention plans, and communication devices like AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) systems is common in this role. Patience, empathy, strong observational skills, and effective communication are crucial soft skills that help build trust and rapport with individuals on the autism spectrum. These skills and qualifications are vital for delivering individualized support, promoting positive outcomes, and ensuring a safe, supportive environment for clients.

Why are 85% of autistic adults unemployed?

Autistic adults often face employment challenges due to difficulties with social communication, sensory sensitivities, and a lack of workplace accommodations. Autism Support Specialists and other professionals work to improve job skills and advocate for inclusive work environments, but barriers such as stigma and limited understanding can still hinder employment opportunities for many autistic adults.

What qualifications do you need to be an autism specialist?

Autism Support Specialists typically need a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent, with many roles requiring a bachelor's degree in fields such as psychology, education, or social work. Relevant certifications, such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) or crisis intervention training, are often preferred or required, along with experience working with individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

What is the difference between Autism Support Specialist vs Behavior Technician?

AspectAutism Support SpecialistBehavior Technician
CertificationsOften requires specialized training or certifications in autism support or related fieldsTypically requires certification such as RBT (Registered Behavior Technician)
Work EnvironmentSchools, clinics, community programs, or home settings supporting children with autismSimilar settings, often working directly with children under supervision
Employer & IndustryEducational and healthcare organizations focusing on autism supportBehavior analysis agencies, schools, or therapy centers
Job FocusProviding educational and emotional support tailored to children with autismImplementing behavior intervention plans and data collection

Both roles support children with autism but differ mainly in certification requirements and job focus. Autism Support Specialists often have broader educational roles, while Behavior Technicians focus on behavior intervention and data collection, often requiring RBT certification.

What does an autism support specialist do?

An autism support specialist works with individuals on the autism spectrum to develop social, communication, and daily living skills. They implement behavioral strategies, often using tools like visual supports or data tracking, and collaborate with families and professionals to support client progress. Certification or training in behavioral therapy techniques is typically required for this role.
More about Autism Support Specialist jobs
What cities are hiring for Autism Support Specialist jobs? Cities with the most Autism Support Specialist job openings:
What states have the most Autism Support Specialist jobs? States with the most job openings for Autism Support Specialist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Autism Support Specialist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 62% Full Time, 35% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,399 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

$19.25 - $25.50/hr

Other

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Autism Support Specialist  

Position Summary
The Autism Support Specialist provides instructional, behavioral, and material-development support to the Autism Consultant across nine school districts. This role includes traveling to multiple sites to support students and staff, assisting with implementation of autism-specific strategies, and completing office-based tasks such as preparing materials, resources, and documentation. The position requires a high level of independence, initiative, professionalism, and integrity due to the flexible schedule and limited direct supervision.

 
Essential Duties and Responsibilities  Student & Staff Support (Across 9 Districts) 
  • Travel to assigned districts to support student programming under the direction of the Autism Consultant.

  • Assist with implementing evidence-based practices for students with autism, including visual supports, structured teaching, communication systems, and behavior-support strategies.

  • Model strategies and supports for teachers, paraeducators, and other staff.

  • Provide in-class support, prompting, or intervention as directed.

  • Collect data or observations related to student behavior, communication, or instructional needs.

  • Support the development and implementation of behavior support plans and autism-specific accommodations.

  • Maintain regular communication with the Autism Consultant and site staff to coordinate support needs.

  Office & Material Preparation 
  • Create educational materials, visual supports, task boxes, communication boards, schedules, and other autism-specific resources.

  • Maintain and organize a library of instructional and behavioral materials.

  • Prepare documentation, data sheets, or reports as requested.

  • Assist with organizing professional development materials, binders, training tools, and digital resources.

 
Professional Expectations 
  • Demonstrate strong initiative and work independently with minimal supervision.

  • Maintain a reliable and organized workflow while managing a flexible schedule.

  • Solve problems proactively and adjust plans as needs arise across districts.

  • Maintain strict confidentiality and professional boundaries.

  • Communicate clearly and respectfully with staff, administrators, families, and the Autism Consultant.

  • Represent the cooperative/district professionally in all school buildings and community settings.

  • Be trustworthy, dependable, and capable of handling sensitive student information and situations.

  • Use good judgment when working alone, traveling, or responding to student or staff needs.

Application Procedure:
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