What are the responsibilities and job description for the Special Education Aide - Job Coach - 18+ Program position at Dripping Springs ISD?
Job Title: Special Education Aide – Job Coach – 18 Program
Wage/Hour Status: Non-Exempt
Reports to: Director of Special Services and Teacher(s)
Pay Grade: Clerical/Technical 3
Dept./School: Special Services
Work Calendar: 187 Days
Date Revised: 04/16/2026
PRIMARY PURPOSE
Provide on-site training and support to students in independent living and supported employment, working directly with students at job sites, in the community, and within the school district. Support work training, foster employer relationships, and guide students in workplace expectations. Assist in implementing students’ Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), including instructional support, personal care, and behavior management in both classroom and community settings.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education/Certification:
• High school diploma or GED
• Clear and valid Texas driver’s license
• Valid Texas educational aide certificate (prior to day one in the assignment/position)
• Associate’s degree, completion of 48 college hours, or completion of District-assigned Master Teacher courses
• SAMA (Satori Alternatives to Managing Aggression) Certification preferred
Special Knowledge/Skills:
• Ability to communicate effectively
• Ability to work with adults with disabilities
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions
• Basic knowledge of first aid and CPR
Experience:
• Experience working with high school-aged students preferred
MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES
Instructional Support
1. Maintain and develop job sites for students in the supported employment program.
2. Provide job-coaching support to assigned students, including social skills and behavior support.
3. Collect and maintain employer data and records for students in work-based learning and supported employment; provide updates to teachers and supervisors as needed.
4. Communicate with teachers, parents, employers, and ARD committee members regarding student progress. Collect and present data to support transition planning.
5. Provide instructional, behavioral, and communication support as needed.
6. Assist in assessment routines and the provision of accommodations. Record and report academic and behavioral data for progress-monitoring purposes.
Student Management
1. Effectively manage student behavior.
2. Provide a positive, calm, and consistent learning environment.
3. Implement SAMA-based de-escalation techniques. In crisis situations, perform physical containment when a student poses a threat to self or others.
4. Assist in implementing and documenting student behavior management plans as directed by the teacher.
5. Support and monitor students throughout the school day, including community-based and vocational training settings.
Physical Support
1. Assist with personal care services, transfers, lifting, and positioning of students.
2. Provide additional physical assistance as needed.
3. Document the provision of personal care services as required.
Other
1. Transport students between district facilities, community locations, and job sites as needed.
2. Maintain confidentiality in accordance with FERPA.
3. Participate in training, meetings, and special events as assigned.
4. Obtain and maintain SAMA certification.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
None.
MENTAL DEMANDS / PHYSICAL DEMANDS / ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS
Tools/Equipment Used: Standard office equipment including computer and peripherals; instructional and adaptive equipment; district-owned vehicle
Posture: Frequent sitting, standing, kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting
Motion: Frequent walking and reaching
Lifting: Frequent moderate to heavy lifting (20 to 80 pounds); occasional lifting up to 180 pounds in emergency situations
Environment: Work inside and outside; exposure to weather, noise, and communicable diseases
Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under stress
This document describes the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required.
Salary : $20 - $27