Job Description

Behavior Support Companion / Respite Companion

San Fernando Valley (SFV)

Institute for Applied Behavior Analysis (IABA) is hiring Behavior Support Companions / Respite Companions to provide compassionate, non-medical support to children with developmental disabilities and other special needs. This role focuses on building positive relationships with clients and families while supporting daily routines in home and community settings throughout the San Fernando Valley.

This is a part-time position with flexible scheduling and the potential to grow into a full-time role.

About the Role

Behavior Support Companions and Respite Companions provide structured support while giving caregivers meaningful relief from daily caregiving responsibilities. Team members help create calmer, more predictable environments while encouraging engagement, independence, and positive interactions.

Comprehensive paid training is provided.

What You’ll Do

• Provide direct, non-medical support to children with developmental disabilities
• Serve as primary support staff during respite and behavioral support sessions
• Build positive, professional relationships with clients and families
• Engage clients in activities they enjoy
• Support personal care and daily living needs as appropriate
• Facilitate socialization and community-based activities
• Maintain a safe, supportive, and structured environment
• Complete accurate session documentation

Schedule & Hours

This is a part-time position (up to 30 hours per week) with flexible scheduling based on client needs. Current openings include:

• Thursday / Friday: 10:00am–5:30pm (Burbank, CA)
• Thursday / every other Friday: 3:00pm–7:00pm (Canyon Country, CA)
• Monday–Friday: 3:00pm–9:00pm (Granada Hills, CA)

There is potential for growth into a full-time role based on availability and program needs.

Requirements

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or G.E.D. equivalent
• Basic computer skills
• Familiar with developmental disabilities
• Availability to work evenings and weekends. The schedule will be based on the needs of the client and family.

‪ Pre-Employment Requirements

• ‪Proof of valid driver's license, copy of auto insurance liability coverage, and clear DMV report
• Operational vehicle
• Proof of current CPR and First Aid training certifications
• Clearance with the Department of Justice by completing a fingerprint background check

Physical Activity Requirements:

• Ability to physically lift and carry items weighing up to 20 pounds (e.g., groceries, housewares, or move furniture).
• Ability to physically assist, guide, and facilitate movement of clients that may need physical assistance (e.g., wheelchair transfer, walking, etc.)
• Ability to actively participate in frequent recreational activities

Training:

The Respite Companion will be expected to participate in approximately 40 hours of required training and would complete it during the first three months of employment. Training requirements include competency-based training, on-the-job field training and any other training provided by the professional staff of IABA and/or professionals outside the agency.

Important information

• This role involves unsupervised, direct support of children and/or adults in home, school, and community settings. Duties include implementing behavior plans, managing behavioral escalations, assisting with daily living needs, entering private residences, and accessing confidential health and personal information. Employment is contingent upon meeting applicable pre-employment requirements, which may include verification of education, employment history, credentials, motor vehicle records (if applicable), and other role- or state-specific requirements.

Benefits

Qualifications & Requirements

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required
• Basic computer and documentation skills
• Experience or familiarity with developmental disabilities preferred
• Availability to work evenings and/or weekends as needed

Pre-Employment Requirements

• Valid driver’s license, proof of auto insurance, and clean DMV record
• Reliable, operational vehicle
• CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)
• Ability to obtain Department of Justice fingerprint clearance

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry up to 20 lbs (e.g., groceries or household items)
• Ability to assist with mobility support as needed (e.g., walking guidance, transfers)
• Ability to actively participate in recreational and community activities

Training & Support

• Approximately 40 hours of paid training completed within the first three months
• Competency-based instruction and on-the-job field training
• Ongoing support from IABA supervisors and professional staff