2026 Summer Intern (Volunteer)

2026 Summer Intern (Volunteer)

Redondo Beach, California

The FirstSteps Team is inspired by the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to achieve their fullest potential. To that end, our mission is twofold: to provide the best evidence-based, behavior analytic treatment to our children diagnosed with autism and related learning differences, and to offer a positive, collaborative, and dynamic work experience for our team. We are steadfastly committed to ongoing training and mentorship of our employees, always motivated to support the next generation of clinical leaders in our field and at FirstSteps. Our greatest reward is witnessing the rapid and joyful learning of our little ones and knowing that together, we are creating more happy days for the kids and families we serve.

There is nothing more rewarding than knowing you are making a difference in the life of a child. At FirstSteps this is our mission!

We are seeking motivated and enthusiastic individuals who are eager to learn and dedicated to helping our team in providing exceptional services to children diagnosed with autism who are receiving ABA intervention at our beautiful learning center. This un-paid internship offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience with both the direct therapy and administrative aspects of clinical practice and positively contributing to the success of our summer service offerings. The ideal candidate will be passionate about working with children, eager to learn, and capable of multitasking in a dynamic environment.

Responsibilities:

1. Assist Clinical Teams: Support clinical teams in preparing, organizing, and implementing our annual FirstSteps for Friends, Summer Social Skills Intensive program.
2. Client Interaction: Interact with our amazing children and their families in a supportive and engaging manner, ensuring they feel welcome and comfortable in our clinic environment.
3. Data Collection: Learn and assist with taking data during therapy sessions, ensuring accurate and detailed documentation of progress.
4. Administrative Duties: Help with administrative tasks such as notifying our families and team members of scheduling changes, organizing medical records, updating client files, and maintaining clinic organization.
5. Check-in and Check-out: Assist in the smooth check-in and check-out process for kids and families attending therapy sessions, providing assistance and support as needed.
6. Collaboration: Collaborate with clinical teams and administrative staff to ensure seamless delivery of services and a positive experience for all clients.
7. Learning and Development: Take advantage of countless learning opportunities throughout the internship period and gain valuable skills and knowledge about developmental learning challenges, treatment assessment and intervention, practice management, health care, and administrative functions.

Qualifications:

• Current enrollment in a relevant undergraduate or graduate program (e.g., Psychology, Special Education, Applied Behavior Analysis, Healthcare Administration).
• Passion for working with children and supporting their development.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Willingness to learn and adapt to new tasks and responsibilities.
• Previous experience in a clinical or educational setting is a plus, but not required.

Duration and Schedule:

• This is a summer internship position with potential for future employment.
• The internship will require a minimum of 20 hours per week, with scheduling flexibility based on clinic needs.

Benefits:

• Hands-on experience in a dynamic ABA clinic environment.
• Opportunity to work closely with experienced clinical professionals and Board Certified Behavior Analysts.
• Exposure to both clinical and administrative aspects of clinical practice.
• Potential for professional growth and development, including future employment.
• Academic credit may be available, depending on individual circumstances.
• Exceptional interns who are considering graduate school will be provided strong letters of recommendation.

Application Process:

• To apply, please use the Apply link and submit your resume or CV.
• Interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis until the positions are filled.
• We welcome candidates from diverse backgrounds and experiences to apply.

FirstSteps on Diversity & Equity:

We believe that we have a responsibility and an opportunity to contribute to a kinder and more compassionate world by living our values of diversity and equity in all our daily operations. As an equal opportunity employer, we value diversity, equity, and inclusivity in our service delivery with our clients, in collaboration with families and communities, and in our organizational culture and employment practices.