Augmentative and Alternative Communication Specialist
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Specialist
GENERAL PURPOSE
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The Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Specialist for the NEAT Center at Oak Hill is responsible for supporting the needs of students and other individuals with complex communication needs throughout Connecticut. This position will join a collaborative, multidisciplinary, assistive technology team to provide services that are aligned with best practices. The capacity of NEAT’s AAC services will be expanded upon to allow provision of support for more individuals than can currently be reached in a given time period.
SUPERVISORY AND OTHER CONTACTS
- This position will report to the Senior AAC Specialist. The AAC Specialist will not have any direct reports.
- This individual works closely with the Senior AAC Specialist, other AAC specialists, as well as other NEAT staff members. Occasional collaboration with other Oak Hill departments is required.
- The AAC Specialist will foster and maintain connections with school districts, agencies, families, and other groups in the local and national communities.
TARGET OUTCOMES/MEASURES OF SUCCESS
- Provide AAC services in accordance with the NEAT Center’s philosophy and mission
- Use AAC/AT frameworks to create tailored support and recommendations for individuals with complex communication needs
- Generate written reports and training materials to guide research-based AAC implementation
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Conduct AAC evaluations and other services to identify communication supports that appropriately align with an individual’s unique abilities, preferences, environmental contexts, and barriers. Services also facilitate successful AAC implementation within areas of education, employment, home, and community settings. Written reports that align with the direct services are required as applicable. While there is flexibility within this role, most services will need to be delivered during business hours and deadlines will be set.
- Collaborate with NEAT and Oak Hill staff along with related professionals to provide comprehensive AAC solutions and services.
- Design, develop, and deliver engaging AAC presentations and workshops that align with evidenced based practices for educational, vocational, and consumer groups at the local and national levels.
- Stay current on available AAC systems, related assistive technology, as well as strategies for assessment and implementation.
- Exhibit innovation for adapting and modifying assistive technology tools and programs.
QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
- Master of Arts or Science degree in Speech-Language Pathology
- Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)
- Connecticut Department of Public Health License in Speech and Language Pathology
Preferred Requirements:
- Background in assistive technology with specialty in AAC
- Training/teaching experience
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
This position requires the ability to interact well with varying ages and cultures. The AAC Specialist must exhibit superior technical writing, time management, and verbal communication skills along with exceptional organizational skills application in a deadline driven environment. This position requires a high level of analytical thinking and problem-solving skills to successfully meet the needs of individuals with disabilities. Outstanding collaboration skills coupled with excellent interpersonal skills are necessary to support the interdisciplinary team in assisting individuals in reaching their assistive technology goals.
Other details
- Pay Type Salary