VISTA Job Opportunities – CCRES

Opportunities at CCRES for Professionals in Special Needs Support

CCRES is currently seeking dedicated professionals to work in various settings, including schools, homes, and the community. These roles are designed to support children and adults who face challenges related to autism, mental illness, intellectual or developmental disabilities, and physical disabilities. Since 1999, CCRES has partnered with the Chester County Intermediate Unit to address the growing need for behavioral health services for children in Chester County while contributing positively to the local community.

Based in Downingtown, CCRES provides a team of qualified professionals who collaborate with school districts, intermediate units, and the broader behavioral health system. The organization offers a range of positions that cater to different levels of expertise and interests, making it an ideal place for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals with special needs.

Personal Care Assistant (PCA) Position

One of the many available roles at CCRES is the Personal Care Assistant (PCA). This position is currently open for the 2025-2026 school year, with a tentative start date for selected candidates at the end of August or early September. PCAs play a crucial role in providing one-on-one support to children and adolescents with emotional and behavioral disorders within the school setting, based on their medical needs.

Candidates hired for this role receive paid credentials, which cover the costs of necessary clearances and TB screening. The position involves working during the school calendar year, with schedules varying between 7:30 AM to 2:30 PM for secondary students and 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM for elementary students. Assignments are available across multiple school districts in Chester County as well as in the Chester County Intermediate Unit’s Child and Career Development Center or Learning Center.

The starting rate for this role is $22 per hour, with potential for progression to $25.50 per hour. PCAs primarily assist children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders and other special needs diagnoses. Their responsibilities include:

• Providing emotional support and behavioral interventions
• Implementing strategies for behavior management, conflict resolution, and peer interaction
• Documenting daily data and progress notes
• Supporting students with personal care needs

To qualify for this position, candidates must have a high school diploma or equivalent. Experience working with school-aged children and familiarity with autism or other special needs are preferred. Those assigned to the West Chester Area School District must also meet additional requirements, such as completing a local assessment or having two years of post-secondary education.

Credentialing requirements include PA Child Abuse (Act 151) Clearance, PA Criminal (Act 34) Clearance, an FBI background check using code 1KG6XN, TB screening, and official education documentation.

This role is particularly suitable for those beginning their careers, parents seeking to work in the same district as their children, or individuals looking for a career change.

Behavior Consultant (BC-ABA) Role

Another key position at CCRES is the Behavior Consultant (BC-ABA), which is an independent contract role. This position involves working as part of an interdisciplinary clinical team in Montgomery County, with flexible scheduling options to accommodate work-life balance.

Behavior Consultants earn $60 per hour and are responsible for:

• Writing and monitoring individual treatment plans for children with behavioral and mental health disorders
• Assisting in developing adaptive skills for these children to better engage in school, home, and community settings
• Providing behavioral consultation to families and schools
• Training Behavior Health Technicians on therapeutic interventions
• Conducting Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBA)

Qualifications for this role include a Master’s Degree in applied behavior analysis (ABA) or a related field, along with a Pennsylvania license in psychology, counseling, social work, or a similar discipline. Candidates must also have at least 12 credits in ABA and one year of full-time experience in ABA, either independently or under the supervision of a BCBA. Additional requirements include PA Child Abuse and Criminal Clearances, an FBI background check, current TB screening, and professional liability insurance.

Behavior Analyst / BCBA Position

For those with advanced qualifications, the Behavior Analyst / BCBA role offers a higher hourly rate of $85. This position involves working in Chester County as part of an interdisciplinary clinical team, with flexible hours depending on program needs.

Responsibilities include:

• Developing and monitoring treatment plans for children with behavioral and mental health disorders
• Supporting the development of adaptive skills for these children
• Offering behavioral consultation to families and schools
• Training Behavior Health Technicians on appropriate interventions
• Conducting Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBA)

Qualifications for this role include a PA Behavior Specialist License, active BCBA certification, and the necessary clearances and screenings. Candidates must also hold professional liability insurance and have an active license in a relevant field.

These positions offer valuable opportunities for professionals interested in making a difference in the lives of individuals with special needs. Whether you're just starting your career or looking for a meaningful change, CCRES provides a supportive environment to grow and contribute.