ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Special Needs Program Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

ECS4KIDS

Special Needs Assistant

Leesburg, FL · On-site

$18.12 - $23.95/hr

Through programs like Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK), Head Start, School Readiness, Child Care ... The Special Needs Assistant provides individualized classroom support for assigned children with ...

ECS4KIDS

Special Needs Assistant

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$18.24 - $24.10/hr

Through programs like Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK), Head Start, School Readiness, Child Care ... The Special Needs Assistant provides individualized classroom support for assigned children with ...

ECS4KIDS

Special Needs Assistant

Ocala, FL · On-site

$18.12 - $23.95/hr

Through programs like Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK), Head Start, School Readiness, Child Care ... The Special Needs Assistant provides individualized classroom support for assigned children with ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSpecial Needs Program JobsSpecial Needs Program Jobs in Florida

Special Needs Program information

See Florida salary details

$5

$16

$28

How much do special needs program jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for special needs program in Florida is $16.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.72 and $18.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a special needs program?

A Special Needs Program is a structured set of services and supports designed to help individuals with physical, developmental, behavioral, or emotional disabilities achieve their fullest potential. These programs may take place in schools, community centers, or specialized facilities and often include educational, therapeutic, and recreational activities tailored to each participant's unique needs. The goal is to provide an inclusive environment that promotes growth, independence, and well-being for people with special needs. Special Needs Programs often involve collaboration among educators, therapists, families, and other professionals to ensure comprehensive care.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in special needs programs, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Special Needs Programs often encounter challenges such as adapting instructional methods to meet diverse learning needs, managing behavioral issues, and ensuring effective communication with families and support staff. These challenges can be addressed by staying current with best practices in special education, participating in professional development, and fostering a collaborative environment with other educators and therapists. Regular communication with families and multidisciplinary teams also helps create consistency and support for each individual’s needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a special needs program coordinator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Special Needs Program Coordinator, you need a background in special education, program management, and an understanding of various disabilities, often supported by a relevant degree and certifications. Familiarity with individualized education plans (IEPs), assistive technology, and compliance with IDEA or ADA regulations is typically required. Exceptional communication, empathy, and problem-solving skills help build trust with families and effectively support students’ unique needs. These capabilities are critical for ensuring accessible, high-quality programs that promote the well-being and development of individuals with special needs.

What is the difference between Special Needs Program vs Speech Therapist?

AspectSpecial Needs ProgramSpeech Therapist
CredentialsVaries; often requires education in special education or related fieldsMaster's degree in Speech-Language Pathology, licensure, and certification
Work EnvironmentSchools, community centers, specialized programsClinics, schools, hospitals, private practice
Employer & IndustryEducational institutions, non-profits, government programsHealthcare, educational, private practice

Special Needs Programs focus on supporting individuals with diverse disabilities through comprehensive services, while Speech Therapists specialize in diagnosing and treating speech and language disorders. Both roles often collaborate but differ in scope and credentials.

What are good jobs for special needs people?

Good jobs for individuals with special needs include roles such as administrative assistants, retail associates, food service workers, and custodial staff, which often offer flexible schedules and supportive environments. These positions may require specific skills or certifications and can be adapted to accommodate various abilities, promoting independence and employment inclusion.

What qualifications do I need to work with special needs in a special needs program?

To work in a special needs program, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant certifications such as CPR and first aid. Many positions also require specialized training or coursework in special education, behavioral management, or related fields, and some roles may require a bachelor's degree in education, psychology, or a related discipline.
Special Needs Program jobs near you
Infographic showing various Special Needs Program job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,401 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

Special Needs Program Coordinator

Boca Raton, FL • On-site

YOUNG MENS CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION OF
See more jobs at YOUNG MENS CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION OFexternal

$18 - $22/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY
Under the supervision of the Director of Youth Development, the Interim Special Needs Coordinator assists in a variety of functions including communication, planning, marketing and evaluation of the Special Needs After School, Holiday and Summer Day Camp programs at the Family Center. The Program Coordinator supports participation and retention by assisting in the planning and execution of the Special Needs After School, Holiday and Summer Day Camp programs to achieve strategic goals and provide outstanding customer service to all students and parents.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  • Provide direction, rules and supervision of the program activities within the Special Needs After School, Holiday and Summer Day Camp programs.
  • Assist the Program Director in the planning and implementation of the daily activities that fit the student's needs and interests to build healthy lifestyles.
  • Support the retention of YMCA members through excellent quality programming and maintaining the requirements of average daily attendance. Work toward positive parent/staff relations to ensure satisfaction with programming.
  • Participate in parent committees for quality after school programming, such as character development, arts and crafts, sports, summer camp, etc.
  • Provide a safe and healthy environment, both physically and mentally, by keeping within mandated ratios to ensure the operation of a quality Elementary School program.
  • Collect and process participants' monthly payments in a timely manner. Complete all paperwork with accuracy and within deadlines.
  • Ensure proper procedures are followed for sign-in/out of students on a daily basis.
  • Assist the Program Director in acting as a liaison between the YMCA and School Administration.
  • Conduct regular staff meetings to ensure timely and accurate communication. Attend all staff meetings and YMCA trainings as required.
  • Assist the Program Director in actively marketing the After School and Summer Day Camp programs by utilizing available marketing tools to increase participation goals. Utilize available technology, reporting tools and data that enhance program participation and retention.
  • Report all accidents/incidents to the Supervisor, and follow risk procedures as outlined in YMCA policy. Report all suspicions of child abuse to proper contacts as outlined in YMCA policy.
  • Remain up to date on emergency procedures and certifications.
  • Prepare monthly newsletters, calendars and schedules. Participate in special events and fundraising projects.
  • Maintain the quality and inventory of the supplies, equipment and materials used in youth programming activities.
  • Must have valid driver's license, with at least three years driving experience; driving record must meet YMCA standards
  • Maintain and processes payroll bi-weekly staying within the budgeted guidelines.
  • All other duties assigned by Management.

JOB REQUIREMENTS
To be successful, you must meet some education, training and experience requirements and you must be able to demonstrate some critical knowledge, skills, and physical abilities.
EDUCATION, TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE
  • AA/AS degree or equivalent in related field required: BS degree preferred.
  • 1-3 years' experience in formal child care curriculum and programming, school age experience.
  • 1-3 years of supervisory experience preferred.
  • Child Care certification a plus.
  • Microsoft Office proficiency required.
  • Current CPR/AED and First Aid certifications required

WORKING CONDITIONS
  • May be required to lift and carry up to 50 lbs. in various forms.
  • May be required to sit, stand or maintain physical activity for extended periods of time.
  • Must exhibit patience and understanding.
  • Must be able to receive and follow detailed instructions.
  • Must be alert at all times. keeping safety in mind. Must possess acceptable hearing and visual capabilities in order to monitor environment and children's well-being.
  • May be required to sit or stand for extended periods of time while demonstrating manual dexterity in order to accurately work on the phone, computer keyboard, and other equipment.
  • Must possess auditory, verbal and visual capabilities in order to adequately communicate via phone and in person.
  • Must be capable of working under pressure in an educational environment.
  • May be required to work outdoors for extended periods of time.
  • May be exposed to extreme outdoor weather conditions and temperatures.

DISCLAIMERS
  • Must complete successful criminal background check and drug screen
  • All of the above duties and responsibilities are essential job functions subject to reasonable accommodation. The YMCA promotes an equal employment opportunity work place which includes reasonable accommodation of otherwise qualified disabled applicants and employees. Please see your manager should you have any questions about this policy or these job duties.
  • This job description may not be all-inclusive and employees are expected to perform all other duties as assigned and directed by management. Job descriptions and duties may be modified when deemed appropriate by management.

YMCA CORE COMPETENCIES (TEAM LEADER)
  • Mission and Community Oriented: Models honesty, caring, respect and responsibility. Practices inclusion and cross-cultural understanding. Models best practices of engaging and partnering with members and community. Assists in the orientation, training, and development of volunteers.
  • People Oriented: Uses positional authority appropriately. Effectively engages group dynamics to develop diverse teams. Effectively tailors communications and influence strategies to the audience. Provides staff with feedback, coaching, guidance, and support.
  • Results Oriented: Monitors qualitative and quantitative expectations. Encourages and supports curiosity, creativity, innovation and calculated risk-taking of others. Provide others with frameworks for decision-making. Develops plans and manages best practices through engagement of team. Cultivates relationships to generate funds. Effectively creates and manages budgets.
  • Personal Development Orientated: manages emotions appropriately. Shares new insights, facilitates change; models adaptability and an awareness of the impact of changes

Apply