Autism Specialist at Secondary/Elementary Buildings

DEPARTMENT/LOCATION: Special Education/ Olathe West, Santa Fe Trail, Fairview, and Indian Creek 

HOURS OF WORK/CALENDAR:   40 hours / 187 calendar + 10 day extended calendar

STATUS: Certified - Contract

SCHOOL YEAR: 2025-2026

POSITION SUMMARY:  
The Autism Specialist position, inclusive of early childhood education, is expected to consult with teams in the district for students who have been identified with an autism spectrum disorder or suspected of having autism spectrum disorder.  The Autism Specialist collaborates with all stakeholders on students’ teams. The ability to form relationships and communicate effectively with student teams and students is essential.  This position is part of a special education team and reports to the Special Services coordinator. 
 
PRIMARY DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Consult with teams in the district for students who have been identified with an autism spectrum disorder or suspected of having autism spectrum disorder and need additional support.
• Observe students and support problem-solving with teams prior to proposal for autism placement.
• Assist teams in developing Functional Behavior Assessments and related Behavior Intervention Plans.
• Support teams’ program and curriculum development to assist with maintaining LRE.
• Autism specialist will be responsible for training and supervision of autism instructional assistants (AIAs).
• Stay current with evidence-based practices and research in the field of autism spectrum disorders and applied behavior analysis.
• Stay current and be able to facilitate support related to curriculum and assessment tools within the areas of social, academic, and behavioral needs that are a manifestation of autism.
• Assist teams in assessment, program development, and implementation as it related to students on the autism spectrum.
• Guide assessment and assist in development of effective programs within the areas of academic, social, and behavioral domains.
• Train student teams in strategies and program development/implementation.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Education And Experience Requirements:

• Advanced degree in Special Education 
• Preferred experience as a teacher in a low incidence setting programming for students with autism.
• Minimum of 3 years supporting students with an autism spectrum disorder.
• Successful experience as a member of a special education team.
• Successful experience providing training and leadership to adult learners.

Required Knowledge, Skills And Abilities:

• Excellent verbal, written and listening communication skills.
• Knowledge and successful use of current research-based instruction and behavioral strategies.
• Ability to organize and prioritize multiple students and school team needs simultaneously.
• High degree of motivation, responsibility, and confidentiality.
• Demonstrated ability in compiling, organizing, and analyzing data.
• Demonstrated ability in assessment, program development, and implementation across academic, social, and behavioral domains.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision in a fast-paced work environment.
• Highly collaborative team player.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Outlook, etc.).
• Ability to self-initiate areas of opportunity, make recommendations for improvement, and follow up as necessary to achieve desired results.

 
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: 
This position requires the performance of medium work. The position involves exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 30 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects. The position requires visual acuity to perform work using a computer and other technology to support instruction. The position requires a frequent amount of grasping, talking, hearing, reaching, stooping, standing, walking, and feeling, an occasional amount of balancing, kneeling, crouching, crawling, lifting, pushing and/or pulling, and some climbing. Repetitive motion with a significant amount of fine finger dexterity is required in carrying out the essential duties of this position. The position is performed in a generally hazard free, indoor environment and a clean atmosphere.
The position will require a passing certification of Safe Crisis Management (SCM).
 
IMPORTANT EMPLOYMENT STATEMENTS:
The statements above are intended to describe the general nature of the work being performed and are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required.  This document describes the position currently available.  The District reserves the right to modify job duties or job descriptions at any time.
The Olathe Public Schools prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, disability, age, religion, sexual orientation or gender identity in its programs, activities or employment as required by applicable federal and state laws.
 
CLEARANCES REQUIRED: Criminal Justice Fingerprint, Background Clearance, TB Test