School Psychologist
Company Description Valley Achievement Center, established in 1998, is a leading non-profit organization dedicated to providing lifelong learning and growth opportunities for children and adults with Autism and other developmental disabilities. Based in Bakersfield, CA, the organization delivers highly regarded educational programs, life skills training, and supported employment and living services. Through its nonpublic school and adult services programs, Valley Achievement Center utilizes behavior analytic technology to make a meaningful impact in the lives of the individuals it serves. The organization is committed to fostering progress, independence, and a fulfilling life for those affected by developmental disorders. Job Description: Job Summary: The School Psychologist works closely with staff and students in order to assess student behavior issues and develop effective management intervention programs for students with special needs. Conducts assessments and collaborates with Site Facilitator, Director, parents and other stakeholders as required to determine placement, services eligibility and on-going services. Job Duties: Consult with education team to develop, maintain and implement behavior plans and treatment plans for students with various developmental disabilities. Participate in Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) meetings. Assist with daily operation of the educational command structure. Responsible for modeling and monitoring the behavior plans in order to evaluate the effectiveness of instructional methods, techniques and behavior management strategies. Administer standardized, norm referenced tests of adaptive skills, language skills, social skills and instructional performance to determine placement and eligibility. Provide behavior support to employees and students, including one-on-one assistance as needed. Address staff, parents, and other stakeholders regarding behavior related questions and concerns for student programs. Conduct initial assessments for incoming and current students to determine environmental strategies. Collect and analyze evidence based data for progress monitoring. Work with a variety of students within the Autism Spectrum or with other Developmental Disabilities. Ability to exercise appropriate emergency behavior management techniques. Follow appropriate chain of command when faced with concerns related to students, parents, VAC vendors, supervisors and other employees. Demonstrates accuracy, thoroughness, and personal accountability; looks for ways to improve or promote program quality assurance. Attend meetings and trainings, including presenting assessment results and progress to education team. Adheres to all VAC policies and procedures as outlined in the Employee Handbook. Exemplifies VAC's Mission, Vision and Core Values. Performs other duties as assigned. Job Qualifications: Experience in related setting. Previous experience in conducting assessment and creating instructional or behavioral programming. Proficiency in computer applications including Microsoft Office, Word and Excel, specifically graphing and data analysis software. Demonstrated knowledge of Applied Behavior Analysis techniques and best practice outcomes. Ability to communicate effectively (oral and written) with students, parents, VAC vendors, supervisors and other employees. Ability to work as a team, actively participate and collaborate with other team members. Knowledge of behavior emergency management. Ability to maintain composure, remains objective, demonstrate sound judgment and react effectively in challenging situations. Must possess competencies to think analytically and problem solving to produce positive outcomes. Prior experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities required. Flexible and adaptable to program and organizational changes. Exhibits a positive, solution oriented and motivating demeanor at all times. Educational Requirements: Master's degree in School Psychology with PPS credential, or equivalent per California Department of Education requirements. Physical Requirements: Lifting and carrying up to 60 lbs. Frequent squatting, sitting, walking, standing, bending and twisting, kneeling, crawling, climbing. Simple grasping with both hands and fine manipulation with both hands. Occasional running, pushing and pulling, reaching above and below shoulder level. Regular exposure to excessive noise levels. Walking and running on uneven surfaces. Regular exposure to outside elements, including excessive heat, direct sunlight, cold, wind or rain. Certificates: CPR/First Aid or obtain within 3 months of employment and kept current throughout duration of employment. Job Type: Full-time Benefits: Dental insurance Employee assistance program Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance License/Certification: Certified School Psychologist (Required) Work Location: In person
