What are the responsibilities and job description for the Teacher’s Assistant (KG-4th) ASD position at Crossroads Center for Children?
Make a Difference Every Day as a Teacher's Assistant (TA) for Autistic Children
Being a Teacher Assistant means helping students learn, grow, and succeed, but not all TA positions are created equal. If you’re exploring roles, here are some important questions to ask (and how Crossroads thoughtfully answers them).
Is This Just a Job or Does the Work Truly Matter?
At Crossroads Center for Children, the work you do has purpose. We are a not-for-profit, school-based program serving children with developmental disabilities using the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Everything we do is kid-centered and mission-driven not productivity-driven.
As a TA, you are not “extra help.” You are a critical part of each student’s team, supporting meaningful skill development in communication, academics, social interaction, self-help, and play. The progress you help create shows up in real lives, every day.
Will I Be Trained and Supported or Thrown In?
Many TA positions expect you to “figure it out as you go.” That’s not how we operate.
Crossroads is an ABA-driven program throughout the school day. You will receive:
Paid, in-person training
Ongoing coaching from Special Education Teachers and Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs)
Access to an online training platform
Clear expectations, modeling, and feedback
What Does the Classroom Team Look Like?
Our self-contained classrooms are intentionally staffed and supported. Each classroom includes:
A Special Education Teacher
Multiple Teacher Assistants
Ongoing support from a BCBA and Educational Supervisor
Students also receive services from Speech-Language Pathologists, Occupational Therapists, and Physical Therapists as needed. You will work collaboratively with professionals who respect your role and value your input.
Is There a Healthy Work–Life Balance?
We believe sustainability matters — especially in work that requires energy, patience, and heart.
School-year schedule, including a six-week summer program
No evenings or weekends
Predictable daytime hours (8-3:30 Full Time, 8:30-2:30 Part Time)
Paid time off aligned with the school calendar
Whether you’re seeking full-time, part-time, or per-diem work, this role allows you to do meaningful work without burnout.
What Will I Actually Be Doing Day to Day?
Teacher Assistants at Crossroads:
Support students with individualized academic, social, self-help, and play goals
Implement ABA-based teaching strategies
Collect data to support skill acquisition and behavior change
Assist with daily classroom activities (art, music, movement, group lessons)
Work collaboratively with teachers and BCBAs
Redirect and respond to challenging behaviors using positive, evidence-based approaches
Participate in team meetings and contribute to student progress
This is an active, hands-on role where no two days are exactly the same.
Are There Opportunities to Grow?
Absolutely.
Many staff come to Crossroads to gain experience in education, psychology, behavior analysis, or related fields. We offer:
College and graduate school tuition reimbursement
Continuing education opportunities
Professional development assistance
A clear pathway to Lead TA positions with automatic pay increases
Skill development in education, mental health, communication, and teamwork
This role is an excellent foundation for future careers in education, ABA, or human services.
Compensation & Benefits
Pay: $17–$18 per hour
Positions available: Full-Time, Part-Time, or Per Diem
Benefits may include:
Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
403(b) Retirement Plan
Paid Time Off
Employee Assistance Program
Tuition Reimbursement
Pet Insurance
Employee Discounts
Paid initial training
Qualifications
High School Diploma or equivalent (required)
Experience in childcare or with children with autism (preferred)
New York State Teacher Assistant Certification
Our Mission
To prepare individuals with and without developmental disabilities for life success within their family and community.
Our Vision
Every student we serve will achieve a full and productive life.
Positions start as soon as you are ready.
If you’re looking for a workplace where you feel supported, valued, and part of something meaningful — we’d love to meet you.
For more information about Crossroads Center for Children, visit:
https://crossroadcenter.org/
Questions? Please don’t hesitate to reach out to:
Jared High, Director of Staff Development
JaredH@crossroadcenter.org
Salary : $17 - $18