For students pursuing special education degrees, finding summer work that provides both income and relevant experience can be challenging. Many special education majors default to Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) positions working with young children, but there are numerous alternatives offering exposure to older student populations. This guide explores high-paying summer opportunities that expand your professional horizons beyond traditional RBT roles.
Why Look Beyond RBT Positions?
While RBT work provides valuable experience with applied behavior analysis, it primarily focuses on early intervention for young children. Special education students benefit from diverse experiences across age groups. Consider these advantages of branching out:
- Develop skills for different developmental stages
- Understand the full spectrum of special education needs
- Build a more versatile professional profile
- Often higher pay rates than entry-level RBT positions
Alternative Summer Opportunities in Special Education
These paid positions offer meaningful experience with older students while providing financial stability during summer breaks:
1. Summer School Special Education Assistants
Many school districts hire additional staff for extended school year (ESY) programs. These positions typically pay $15-$25 per hour and involve:
- Supporting middle and high school students with IEPs
- Assisting with academic and life skills instruction
- Collaborating with certified special education teachers
2. Residential Camp Counselors for Special Needs
Organizations like special needs summer camps seek staff with special education backgrounds. These immersive experiences offer:
- 24/7 interaction with adolescents and young adults
- Opportunities to practice behavior management strategies
- Room and board plus competitive salaries
3. Community-Based Instruction Assistants
Many agencies run summer programs teaching practical skills to older special education students. Duties may include:
- Supervising community outings and job training
- Teaching transportation and money management skills
- Documenting progress for transition planning
Finding and Landing These Opportunities
Follow these steps to secure your ideal summer position:
- Research local school district ESY programs starting in February
- Contact special education nonprofits about summer openings
- Highlight relevant coursework in your application materials
- Emphasize transferable skills from RBT training
As noted by the special education field experts, experience across age groups makes graduates more competitive in the job market. Summer positions with older students demonstrate your adaptability and commitment to serving all special education populations.
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