Speech Language Therapist

About the role

Autism New Zealand is a provider of early support services funded by the Ministry of Education. EarlySteps provides the earliest possible support to improve education opportunities, participation and learning outcomes for autistic tamariki with high learning support needs in the early childhood sector through the provision of effective co-ordinated specialist supports. EarlySteps provides an autism specific, neuro affirming, whānau centred, culturally responsive, inclusive and evidence informed early support service, supporting autistic tamariki and those with a probable autism diagnosis through to the end of Year 1.

As an EarlySteps Speech Language Therapist (0.6 - 1.0 FTE) you will work as part of a transdisciplinary team to provide high-quality neuro affirming, inclusive, whānau centred and autism specific support for parents and whānau, early learning services, schools and others service users, with a specific focus on speech, language and communication in the context of their home, early learning service, school and community.

Key responsibilities

• Provide high-quality learning support services to early childhood centres, schools, learners, parents/caregivers and other service users in accordance with the guiding principles of Te Whāriki and the New Zealand Curriculum Framework
• Work collaboratively with kaiako to translate specialist knowledge around speech, language and communication into practical information that can be integrated within a curriculum/learning programme that focuses on inclusive and neuro-affirming practices
• Establish and maintain effective service relationships with parents/caregivers and facilitate positive parent/professional partnerships
• Contribute to transition into school planning, working collaboratively with others to build in a focus on speech, language and communication strategies and supports
• Advise teachers and school staff on classroom strategies to support a child transitioning into school with a focus on speech, language and communication
• Develop and implement inclusive programmes by working collaboratively with parents, whānau, caregivers, teachers/educators and other professionals
• Work in partnership with families/whānau, caregivers, and teachers to develop Focus for Intervention individual plans, Transition to School Plans and ORS applications, contributing specific expertise around speech, language and communication
• Use coaching, video coaching and mentoring in developing adult capabilities to support tamariki
• Undertake individual and facilitate comprehensive and multi-disciplinary assessments
• Provide timely, accurate and objective reports to management in accordance with EarlySteps reporting expectations

About you

• Bachelor or master degree in speech-language therapy or equivalent that meets the requirements of the New Zealand Speech-language Therapists' Association
• Eligible to be a member of the New Zealand Speech-language Therapists' Association
• In depth knowledge of, and experience with autism, including knowledge of the Aotearoa New Zealand Autism Guidelines and NZ Disability Strategy
• Knowledge of Te Whāriki, the New Zealand early childhood curriculum
• Knowledge of early childhood development, learning and behaviour
• Experience in handling sensitive and confidential information
• Highly competent in Microsoft Office, databases, administration systems and processes
• Ethical, responsible, and reliable with excellent written and verbal communication
• Highly developed relationship management skills, including building rapport, conveying empathy and understanding and creating a supportive environment
• Current clean and full NZ driver's licence essential; use of a private car is also required (mileage paid)

About us

Autism New Zealand's Vision is 'Empowering the autistic and autism communities'. Our Purpose is 'Every Step Together' - providing services and support, education and information to enable autistic people and the wider autism community to make informed choices, and to advocate for a society where autistic people are valued and supported.

How to apply

Applications close Friday 9th October 2026.

For more information on Autism New Zealand, visit our website www.autismnz.org.nz

For enquiries or a full job description, you are welcome to contact [email protected].

Please don't email applications through, please apply through Seek.

Autism New Zealand prides itself on being an inclusive workplace. We have processes in place to collaborate with all employees on workplace accommodations and support. We encourage autistic and other neurodivergent people to apply for roles at Autism New Zealand; we also respect each individual's choices around disclosure of their autistic or neurodivergent status.