Autism Day Program Assistant (Full-Time)

Description

• Work in a 1:3 ratio.
• Assist the children at ChildServe in becoming as independent as possible and in preparing them to begin school.
• Work cooperatively with nurses, therapists and other day program employees.
• Follow aspects of the care plan, within scope, to meet individual goals set by therapy.
• Provide a safe and consistent environment for care, learning, and play.
• Follow change of shift procedure to assure communication and continuity of care.
• Maintain accurate, complete and timely records.
• Communicate with children, families, licensed professionals, ChildServe personnel, schools, and the public, in a courteous and professional manner.
• Perform other duties assigned which may include but not limited to:
• Diapering and toilet training
• Feeding
• Communication via picture exchange communication system (PECS), other communication devices and/or simple sentences
• Managing and controlling emotions
• Managing and controlling aggressive behaviors both child-to-child and child-to-employee
• Aiding in learning and retaining pre-school skills such as pre-writing strokes, cutting, turn taking, etc.

• Preferred: Two-year degree in human services or education
• Preferred:  Experience working with children with special healthcare needs
• Must pass the Iowa DCI child and adult abuse and criminal background check prior to hire and every two years thereafter and complete the child abuse affidavit.
• Must also pass the National FBI criminal record check.
• Ability to lift up to 35lbs, be mobile within the classroom and playground areas, and frequently bend, lift, reach, and stand.
• Ability to communicate effectively in reading, writing, and speaking the English language.

• Our work matters. We partner with families to help children with special healthcare needs live a great life. 
• We’re not your average non-profit. We serve 5,800 children each year through over 30 specialty pediatric services in the Ames, Des Moines, and Iowa City areas. Many of our programs are one-of-a-kind.
• Our team members rock. Our teams are filled with people who care about their coworkers, and who believe that collaboration is key to providing exceptional care to children.
• Our learning never stops. As a non-profit dedicated to innovation, we’re proud to help many team members gain new certifications, continue their education, take their expertise to the next level, and find new opportunities to advance their career right here at ChildServe.
• We believe our differences make us great. We are on a continuous journey to create an environment where different perspectives are valued, and all feel safe and welcome.
• We’re moving forward together. Experts across multiple disciplines work together to help kids get the best care possible.