Direct Support Specialist ASD Developmentally Disabled Youth

ctrum Disorder (ASD) and developmental disabilities through hands-on care, daily living, behavioral interventions, and skill-building.

This role is ideal for candidates with experience in direct care, CNA, Paraprofessional, ABA, RBT-adjacent roles, special education, or behavioral health who are passionate about supporting individuals with diverse needs in a structured, therapeutic environment.

Why You’ll Love This Role

✔ Mission-driven work supporting youth with autism and developmental needs
✔ Hands-on experience with behavior support and skill development
✔ Supportive, team-based environment with clinical guidance
✔ Ongoing training and professional development
✔ Growth opportunities in behavioral health and ABA-related fields

Position Overview

As a team member, you will provide direct, hands-on support to youth with ASD and developmental delays, including those who may exhibit physically challenging behaviors.

You will play a key role in maintaining a safe, structured environment while implementing behavior plans and supporting daily living skills.

Key Responsibilities
• Provide direct care and daily living assistance, behavioral support to youth with ASD and developmental disabilities
• Implement daily living tasks, behavior intervention and skill acquisition plans
• Support youth with activities of daily living (ADLs), including:
• Eating
• Toileting
• Hygiene and personal care
• Respond to and safely manage escalated or physically challenging behaviors
• Collaborate with clinicians, caregivers, and team members
• Maintain a safe, structured, and therapeutic environment
• Follow all ethical guidelines, confidentiality standards, and agency policies
• Participate in ongoing training and professional development

What We’re Looking For
• Experience working with autism (ASD), developmental disabilities, or special needs populations
• Background in direct care, CAN, ABA, behavioral health, RBT roles, or special education preferred
• Comfortable providing hands-on care, including toileting and feeding support
• Ability to manage physically demanding situations with professionalism and care
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Ability to remain calm and effective in high-stress situations
• Commitment to compassionate, client-centered care

Ideal Candidate Background

Autism Support • Behavioral Technician • RBT • Direct Support Professional (DSP) • Special Education • ABA Therapy • Developmental Disabilities • Youth Caregiver • Mental Health Technician

Compensation & Growth
• Up to $19.00 per hour based on experience and performance
• Opportunities for advancement within behavioral health and clinical pathways

Important Role Expectations

This role involves active, hands-on engagement with youth who may require physical assistance and behavioral support. Candidates should be comfortable working in dynamic environments and supporting individuals with varying levels of need.

Apply Today

If you are passionate about supporting youth with autism and developmental needs and want a career with purpose, we encourage you to apply today.

At Avidity, we value diversity, inclusivity, and cultural competency, and we provide high-quality behavioral healthcare services to our clients. If you are passionate about helping individuals and families improve their mental health and well-being, we invite you to join our team and make a positive impact on the lives of our clients.

Avidity is an equal employment opportunity employer. Our policy is not to discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, religion, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. Avidity also prohibits bullying and harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories. Avidity is committed to maintaining a Drug-Free Working in compliance with all applicable state and federal laws. If you require accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act, please notify Avidity during the interview process.