Note: The anticipated duration of this role is dependent on continuing availability of funding. Work hours are flexible and based on research participant appointments and team needs, which are scheduled at all times of day, including morning, afternoon, late afternoon, and may also be scheduled on the weekends. This role is hybrid including days on campus and out in the field in the Nashville metro area; some remote work is allowed.
Key Functions and Expected Performance
Deliver intervention according to study procedures
Deliver evidence-based interaction strategies in Spanish at criterion levels of fidelity with young children on the autism spectrum
Communicate in a timely and professional manner with participating families to coordinate intervention visits, both verbally and in writing
Adapt intervention delivery to meet individual family needs while maintaining fidelity to the research protocol
Model evidence-based interaction strategies while explaining use of the strategies in parent-friendly terms
Support parents to use intervention strategies with their children in naturalistic contexts by providing in vivo coaching and feedback during play, book-sharing, and other naturally-occurring routines
Provide information to parents and respond to questions accurately, clearly, and respectfully during sessions
Develop culturally sensitive, family-centered intervention plans in collaboration with caregivers
Support participant recruitment activities
Assist with outreach and recruitment efforts targeting Latino families in the community
Communicate with prospective and enrolled families in Spanish, both verbally and in writing
Conduct phone screenings with prospective participants to determine initial eligibility in accordance with IRB protocols
Maintain accurate and up-to-date participant tracking logs and screening records
Follow up with families who require additional contact to support retention
Manage Materials and Data
Maintain organized and confidential records of project documents, session logs, correspondence, video and audio records, and materials
Supervisory Relationships
This position has no formal supervisory responsibilities. The Interventionist reports administratively and functionally to the Senior Research Associate/Project Director and the Principal Investigator.
Education and Certifications
Master’s degree or equivalent experience is required. Relevant equivalent experience may include at least 5 years of experience working with children with autism and coaching caregivers. A degree in a field such as Psychology, Special Education, Communication Sciences, Human Development, or a related field is preferred.
Certification for human subjects research is required (or must be completed upon hire).
Experience and Skills
Required
Bilingual proficiency in Spanish and English, with strong written Spanish skills; native fluency in Spanish is preferred
Background in clinical practice and/or research related to early childhood development, developmental disabilities, or autism spectrum disorder
Experience working with young children and families
Strong written and verbal communication skills in both Spanish and English
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
Ability to work professionally and sensitively with diverse Latino families
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook)
Ability to follow detailed research protocols and procedures with fidelity
Ability to lift and carry materials, walk across campus daily, and stand for extended periods
Access to reliable personal transportation for participant coordination and materials collection
Strongly Preferred
Prior experience in a research setting, particularly in clinical or behavioral research
Experience with REDCap or other data management systems
Cultural competency and demonstrated commitment to equitable and inclusive research practices
Demonstrated ability to complete data entry accurately and efficiently
Clinical or research experience working with young children with autism spectrum disorders in naturalistic contexts