Director, Learning and Development (Huntington, NY)

The Director of Learning & Development (L&D) is responsible for designing, implementing, and evaluating all professional development and training programs across Gersh Autism Academy. This role ensures that educators, clinicians, paraprofessionals, administrators and leadership receive ongoing, high-quality training rooted in best practices. The Director partners with school leadership, HR, operations, and clinical teams to create a unified, strategic learning approach that reinforces staff readiness, retention, and organizational culture. 

Key Responsibilities 

Learning Strategy & Leadership 

• Develop and execute a multi-year L&D strategy aligned with Gersh Autism Academy’s mission, instructional model, and organizational goals. 

• Lead the design of a cohesive training curriculum for all job families. 

• Build frameworks for onboarding, career pathways, certifications, leadership development, and continuing education. 

Training Program Development 

• Ensure development of trainings using evidence-based practices in autism education. 

• Oversee development of digital learning content, job aids, manuals, and blended learning. 

• Introduce innovative learning methods such as microlearning, simulations, coaching, and observation rubrics. 

Quality Assurance & Compliance 

• Ensure training meets state and federal requirements. 

• Track training completion, quality metrics, and impact. 

• Maintain documentation for audits and regulatory compliance. 

Leadership & Collaboration 

• Partner with academic, clinical, and HR leaders to assess capability gaps. 

• Manage L&D teams, consultants, and vendors. 

• Serve as the subject‑matter expert on adult learning and instructional development. 

Staff Coaching & Support 

• Develop coaching frameworks to strengthen instructional practice. 

• Provide observations and targeted coaching cycles. 

• Facilitate workshops, cohorts, and leadership development sessions. 

Qualifications 

Required: 

• Bachelor's degree in organizational development and design, organizational psychology, Human Resources, or related fields. 

• 7+ years of experience in L&D and training. 

• Expertise in adult learning theory and instructional design. 

• Strong project management and communication skills. 

• Familiarity with LMS systems and instructional technology. 

Preferred: 

• Master’s degree in L&D-related disciplines. 

Personal Attributes 

• Mission-driven and passionate about serving individuals with autism. 

• Collaborative, empathetic, and able to build strong relationships. 

• Strategic thinker with strong facilitation and coaching skills. 

• Strong presenter and communicator with high emotional intelligence. 

What Gersh Autism Academy Offers 

• Opportunity to drive impact in a mission‑driven environment. 

• A collaborative culture that values innovation and learning. 

• Competitive compensation and benefits. 

• Professional development and advancement opportunities. 

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to keep students safe from themselves and others and, in some cases, may need to implement CPI (therapeutic holds) procedures. 
• Must be able to remove oneself from potentially harmful situations and, in some cases, be able to lift a child. 
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and move throughout the workday
• Ability to lift (at least 50-65 pounds), assist, and/or physically support students, which may include lifting or guiding students of varying sizes
• Ability to physically intervene when required to ensure safety (per CPI training)
• Ability to remove oneself and/or others from unsafe situations quickly
• Ability to maintain attention and focus in a dynamic, high-stimulation environment
• Ability to multi-task and shift priorities quickly
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and decision-making, particularly in high-pressure or safety-sensitive situations
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team and maintain professional relationships
• Ability to perform duties under stress, including during behavioral escalations

Benefits for Full Time Employees

Gersh Autism offers a competitive compensation package, including comprehensive health and retirement benefits, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work environment committed to your personal and professional growth. 

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (401k matching)
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
• Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
• Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
• Training & Development

Salary is $135,000-$150,000 plus KRA eligible