Education Specialist I: Autism Specialist

Reports To: Director, Academic Services

Salary: This is a 12-month, full-time, 232 day position with a minimum salary of $61,000

Primary Purpose: The Texas Statewide Leadership for Autism Training (TSLAT) in conjunction with the Texas Education Agency (TEA) provides a mechanism to access training, technical assistance, support, and resources for educators across the state who serve students with autism. The TSLAT network of 20 regional Education Service Centers (ESCs) is led by ESC Region 13.

The TSLAT team develops and facilitates training on autism evidence-based practices for hundreds of educators using a virtual platform where communities of collaborative peers are created. TSLAT team members provide guidance and instruction to support and promote change in teacher practice. This position requires a person who is enthusiastic, committed, flexible, and efficient. The position focuses on consulting and coaching with techniques such as listening, reassuring, mentoring, and partnering with educators.

In addition to coaching participants in professional development, the position supports the development and maintenance of additional courses; creation of classrooms tools; participation in the network with the other 19 ESCs; and planning and support of the statewide autism conference.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelors degree required
• Certification in Special Education (Texas preferred) or license/certification for field (Texas preferred)
• Working knowledge of the basics of autism and special education practices
• A minimum of five years of experience working with students with autism
• Experience using software applications for presentations and technology applications such as electronic meetings, webinars, etc.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Masters degree preferred
• BCBA preferred

• Strong organizational, communication, and presentation skills
• Excellent planning, organization, and time management skills, skill in negotiating and clarifying information, and in working as a member of a team
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships, to communicate effectively verbally and in writing, to handle a number of daily detailed assignments with a minimum of time and supervision.
• Experience in coaching or consultation with teachers on instructional practices
• Experience in self-directed work

Responsibilities:

• Serve as a representative of ESC Region 13, displaying courtesy, tact, consideration, and discretion in all interactions with other members of the educational community and with the public
• Provide virtual consulting and coaching to educators across the state of Texas implementing evidence-based practices for students with autism (Communication with educators will be through a virtual platform, email, phone calls, or in-person.)
• Create products to be used by LEAs for teachers of students with autism.
• Conduct project evaluation activities; evaluate training activities using appropriate data collection and analysis procedures
• Collaborate with other TSLAT team members to ensure well-articulated and coordination of services for the TSLAT grant and network of autism specialists
• Participate in the 20 ESC autism specialist network, including support for the state conference
• Perform other duties as assigned

Working Conditions:

• Communicates effectively (verbal and written)
• Follows policies and procedures and interprets data
• Maintains emotional control
• Prolonged or irregular hours
• Extensive research, reading, and writing
• Lifting and carrying (0-25 lbs)
• Hearing, speaking, visual acuity

Equipment Used:

• Computer, peripherals, and related software.
• Audiovisual/presentation equipment
• Phone, photocopier, laminator
• Conference software and other work-related applications