Behavior Support Companion / Respite Companion

Orange County

Institute for Applied Behavior Analysis (IABA) is hiring Behavior Support Companions to provide compassionate, non-medical support to children with developmental disabilities and other special needs. This role is ideal for caring, people-oriented individuals seeking flexible part-time or full-time work in human services while building meaningful relationships with clients and families.

Comprehensive paid training is provided.

About the Role

Behavior Support Companions and Respite Companions support children and families in their homes and community settings throughout Orange County. Team members help create calmer, more predictable environments while giving primary caregivers meaningful relief from daily caregiving responsibilities.

This role goes beyond supervision—you’ll actively engage with clients, support daily routines, and contribute to a more positive home environment for the entire family.

Schedule & Employment Status

• Part-time and full-time opportunities available - schedules Monday - Sunday ranging between 7 am - 10 pm
• Part-time positions are up to 30 hours per week, with flexible scheduling
• Full-time positions are 30+ hours, 130+ hours a month
• Opportunity to grow into a full-time role based on availability, performance, and program needs

Responsibilities

• 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
• Provide personal care and support with daily living needs (toileting, bathing, showering, feeding, etc.) as appropriate
• Lead and support socialization and community-based activities
• Provide transportation as needed
• Maintain a safe, supportive, and structured environment
• Complete accurate documentation and record-keeping for each client

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
• Ability to transport clients as needed
• Proof of current CPR and First Aid training certifications
• Negative TB test result
• 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

Locations:

Serving Orange County in cities such as Anaheim, Seal Beach, Huntington Beach, Orange, Irvine, Rancho Santa Margarita, Santa Ana, Tustin, Newport Beach, and surrounding areas.

Reporting office: Garden Grove, CA

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

What We Offer

• Medical and dental insurance for employees who qualify as full-time (30+ hours per week or 130+ hours per month)
• Mileage reimbursement
• Paid vacation time and holiday pay
• Employee discounts and team events
• On-the-job training, career development, and advancement opportunities
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Supportive and rewarding work environment
• Meaningful relationships with coworkers and the individuals we serve
• Dynamic work setting—no two days are the same
• Flexible scheduling options

Compensation:

• Non-exempt position
• $20.00–$22.00 per hour, based on experience

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Institute for Applied Behavior Analysis (IABA) is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Affirmative Action employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local laws.

Additional Information

This job description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of all duties, responsibilities, or activities. Job duties and responsibilities may change at any time, with or without notice.