Director, Learning and Development (Huntington, NY) at Gersh Autism – Huntington, New York

For over 30 years, Gersh Autism has empowered students on the autism spectrum to reach their full potential. Serving individuals aged 5-21 across the U.S. and Puerto Rico, our network of K-12 schools provides personalized education tailored to each student’s unique learning style. We offer comprehensive therapeutic services—speech, physical, occupational therapy, and more—along with vocational training for older students. Our dedicated team collaborates with families to ensure academic, social, and emotional growth, preparing students for success beyond the classroom.At Gersh Autism, we are committed to helping individuals on the autism spectrum lead fulfilling, independent lives.

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 workdayAbility to lift (at least 50-65 pounds), assist, and/or physically support students, which may include lifting or guiding students of varying sizesAbility to physically intervene when required to ensure safety (per CPI training)Ability to remove oneself and/or others from unsafe situations quicklyAbility to maintain attention and focus in a dynamic, high-stimulation environmentAbility to multi-task and shift priorities quicklyAbility to exercise sound judgment and decision-making, particularly in high-pressure or safety-sensitive situationsAbility to work effectively as part of a team and maintain professional relationshipsAbility 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 DisabilityTraining & Development

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

The pay range for this role is:135,000 - 150,000 USD per year(West Hills Academy)