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Program Director Autism Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Meristem

Clinical Therapist - Autism Program

Fair Oaks, CA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Direct Clinical Services * Provide one-to-one therapy for adults on the autism spectrum * Develop individualized treatment goals aligned with client needs and program plans * Utilize modalities such ...

LEAP of California

North Bay - Program Manager

Napa, CA · On-site

$95K/yr

These disabilities include Down Syndrome, intellectual disabilities, traumatic brain injury, autism ... Generate monthly reports, with team support, for the Executive Director and Program Director.

Kyo Autism Therapy

Program Supervisor

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$33/hr

... with autism. Kyo serves thousands of children and teens across 11 states. Every day, we seek to ... Pay Rate for direct therapy: $29.00 per hour Pay Rate for supervision duties: $33.00 per hour Kyo ...

Kyo Autism Therapy

Program Supervisor

Eastvale, CA · On-site

$30/hr

... with autism. Kyo serves thousands of children and teens across 11 states. Every day, we seek to ... Pay Rate for direct therapy: $23.50 per hour Pay Rate for supervision duties: $30.00 per hour Kyo ...

Kyo Autism Therapy

Program Supervisor

Eastvale, CA · On-site

$30/hr

... with autism. Kyo serves thousands of children and teens across 11 states. Every day, we seek to ... Pay Rate for direct therapy: $23.50 per hour Pay Rate for supervision duties: $30.00 per hour Kyo ...

Kyo Autism Therapy

Program Supervisor

Daly City, CA · On-site

$35/hr

... with autism. Kyo serves thousands of children and teens across 11 states. Every day, we seek to ... Pay Rate for direct therapy: $30.00 per hour Pay Rate for supervision duties: $35.00 per hour Kyo ...

Kyo Autism Therapy

Program Supervisor

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$33/hr

... with autism. Kyo serves thousands of children and teens across 11 states. Every day, we seek to ... Pay Rate for direct therapy: $29.00 per hour Pay Rate for supervision duties: $33.00 per hour Kyo ...

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Program Director Autism information

What does a program director for autism do?

A Program Director for Autism oversees and manages programs designed to support individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Their responsibilities typically include developing and implementing treatment plans, supervising staff, ensuring compliance with regulations, and collaborating with families and other professionals. They also evaluate program effectiveness and make necessary adjustments to improve outcomes. Program Directors play a critical role in providing leadership, ensuring quality services, and advocating for individuals with autism.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a program director for autism programs?

To thrive as a Program Director for Autism, you need expertise in special education, behavioral interventions, program management, and often a relevant master's degree with state licensure or BCBA certification. Familiarity with data tracking software, ABA therapy tools, and compliance systems is typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help foster effective teams and positive outcomes for clients. These qualifications ensure high-quality, compliant services and support the well-being and progress of individuals with autism and their families.

What are some common challenges program directors in autism programs face, and how can they effectively address them?

Program Directors in autism programs often encounter challenges such as coordinating multidisciplinary teams, ensuring individualized care plans meet regulatory standards, and balancing administrative duties with direct program oversight. To address these challenges, strong communication skills are essential for fostering collaboration among therapists, educators, and families. Additionally, staying updated on best practices in autism care and regularly reviewing program outcomes help ensure high-quality services and compliance with evolving regulations.

What is the difference between Program Director Autism vs Autism Specialist?

AspectProgram Director AutismAutism Specialist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in related field, certifications like BCBA often preferredBCBA or BCaBA certification, relevant degrees in psychology, education, or behavior analysis
Work EnvironmentOversees programs, manages staff, coordinates services in clinics, schools, or community settingsProvides direct therapy, assessments, and support to individuals with autism, often in clinical or educational settings
Employer & Industry UsageFound in clinics, schools, non-profits, government agenciesCommonly employed in therapy centers, schools, and home-based services

The Program Director Autism typically manages programs and staff, requiring leadership skills and program oversight experience. In contrast, Autism Specialists focus on direct client services, assessments, and therapy. Both roles often require BCBA certification and work within similar settings, but their responsibilities differ significantly.

Infographic showing various Program Director Autism job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, and 31% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Clinical Therapist - Autism Program

Fair Oaks, CA • On-site

Meristem
See more jobs at Meristemexternal

$85K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Provide one-to-one therapy for adults on the autism spectrum.

  • Develop individualized treatment goals and support clients with emotional regulation, social development, self-advocacy, and mental health.

  • Partner with educational and program teams to integrate therapeutic goals and participate in team meetings, case conferences, and program planning.

Job description

This isn't just a job, it's a calling!


Our mission at Meristem is to prepare young adults on the autism spectrum to build a strong sense of self, develop an enhanced social capacity, and create a life of increased social and economic independence. We strive to create a world where the unique capabilities of adults on the spectrum are respected and appreciated. We facilitate the ability of adults with autism to have full and meaningful lives, with ample opportunities for mainstream employment and independent living.


We operate a small college-like campus in Fair Oaks that houses many of our students full-time. We are passionate and dependable individuals who excel in a client-facing role and are motivated to help the client succeed. We are seeking a Clinical Therapist - Autism Program who is passionate about neurodiversity, relationship-based work, and holistic therapeutic approaches. This role provides individualized therapy, supports emotional and behavioral development, and contributes to a collaborative, interdisciplinary team.


Meristem is a great place to work and grow. We all work together, motivating those around us with our commitment to high standards. At Meristem, we have a terrific work culture and provide the opportunity to work in a beautiful setting with an amazing purpose.


Location: 9200 Fair Oaks Blvd. Fair Oaks, CA 95628

Status: Exempt, Full-time

Schedule: Monday - Friday 7:30 am 4:30 pm, with occasional weekend flexibility based on community events


Our compensation shows how much we value our team!


  • $85,000 - $95,000 annually, depending on experience
  • Medical plus $3k HRA to help offset medical costs
  • Dental, Vision, and 401K
  • Daily Lunch and Snacks provided


Job Responsibilities:


Direct Clinical Services

  • Provide one-to-one therapy for adults on the autism spectrum
  • Develop individualized treatment goals aligned with client needs and program plans
  • Utilize modalities such as art, play, somatic, and experiential therapies
  • Support clients with emotional regulation, social development, self-advocacy, and mental health
  • Maintain accurate and compliant clinical documentation
  • Ensure services meet legal, ethical, and organizational standards
  • Track progress and adjust therapeutic approaches as needed


Collaboration & Integration

  • Partner with educational and program teams to integrate therapeutic goals
  • Participate in team meetings, case conferences, and program planning
  • Provide insights to support client success across environments


Supervision & Training

  • Provide clinical supervision for interns and/or associate therapists
  • Review and approve intern hours per licensing requirements
  • Offer mentorship, feedback, and training


Program Development

  • Contribute to therapeutic program design aligned with Meristem's philosophy
  • Support systems that ensure high-quality mental health services
  • Participate in program evaluation and continuous improvement


Requirements:

  • Active, unrestricted CA clinical license (LMFT, LCSW, LPCC, Psychologist) preferred
  • Meets qualifications to provide clinical supervision in California
  • Experience providing one-to-one therapy and/or case management
  • Experience working with neurodiverse populations, ideally adults on the autism spectrum
  • Experience with experiential, somatic, art-based, or play-based modalities preferred
  • Experience in interdisciplinary or educational settings preferred
  • Experience supervising interns or associate clinicians preferred
  • Individuals who have held a full, unrestricted clinical license for at least two years and who are open to completing the additional training and certifications required to serve as a clinical supervisor by August 2026 are strongly encouraged to apply


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