ABA Careers
How to Find the Right ABA Therapy Job: 7 Questions to Ask
A practical guide for RBTs, BCBAs, and other therapy professionals comparing ABA jobs, caseloads, supervision, schedules, and agency support.
Finding an ABA therapy job is about more than locating an open position. The setting, schedule, supervision, travel expectations, and support behind a role can shape both your day-to-day experience and the quality of care you are able to provide.
Whether you are an RBT beginning your career, a BCBA looking for a better fit, or another therapy professional exploring new cases, these seven questions can help you compare opportunities with more confidence.
1. What does a typical caseload look like?
Ask how many clients or cases you would support, the usual service setting, and how much the caseload can change over time. A clear answer helps you understand the actual scope of the role instead of relying only on a broad job title.
For supervisory positions, ask about the number of technicians, expected supervision hours, and administrative responsibilities attached to each case.
2. Where will services take place?
ABA services may take place in homes, schools, clinics, community settings, or a mix of locations. Each setting has different routines and travel demands. Confirm the primary locations and whether your schedule could move between settings during the same day.
- The expected travel radius and whether mileage is reimbursed
- Whether drive time between clients is paid
- The availability of clinic space, materials, and private work areas
3. How consistent are the hours?
A posted range of hours does not always reflect a typical week. Ask which hours are currently available, how client cancellations are handled, and whether the agency offers replacement sessions or other paid work when a session is canceled.
If you need a predictable schedule, be specific about your availability early in the conversation. It is easier for both sides to evaluate the match when expectations are clear.
4. What supervision and clinical support are available?
Strong clinical support matters at every experience level. Ask who will answer questions during a difficult session, how often supervisors observe services, and how feedback is delivered.
RBTs pursuing or maintaining credentials should also confirm how required supervision is documented. BCBAs may want to ask about peer consultation, clinical leadership, and opportunities to collaborate on complex cases.
5. How is compensation structured?
Compare the complete compensation structure—not just the highest hourly number in the listing. Clarify whether the role is hourly or salaried, employee or contractor, and whether rates differ for direct care, supervision, training, meetings, or documentation.
- Health, retirement, paid time off, or continuing education benefits
- Paid training and onboarding requirements
- Cancellation policies and minimum-hour guarantees
- Performance reviews and the process for rate increases
6. What documentation is expected?
Documentation expectations can affect how much work follows you home. Ask which system the team uses, when notes are due, how much non-session documentation is typical, and whether that time is included in your compensation.
You should also learn how the organization protects client information and trains staff on privacy. Avoid sharing protected health information through informal channels or public job platforms.
7. What does a successful first 90 days look like?
This question turns a general interview into a practical conversation. A thoughtful employer should be able to describe onboarding, early responsibilities, available support, and what they hope you will accomplish during your first few months.
The answer can also reveal whether the position is well defined. Clear priorities and a realistic ramp-up plan are encouraging signs when you are comparing several ABA therapy jobs.