Before the first day
- Identify the person who can answer the new hire’s questions and how to reach them during a shift.
- Check local, employer and payer requirements before assigning duties; arrange role-appropriate supervision and training.
- Reserve paid training and check-in time according to your organization’s policies. Give the new hire a clear schedule and access instructions.
Plan the week together
- Start: explain the role, who makes clinical decisions and when to ask for help. Introduce privacy and safety procedures.
- Learn: set aside time for introductory ABA concepts and questions. Have the new hire explain a concept in their own words.
- Practice: demonstrate one authorized task, rehearse it with a fictional example, and give specific feedback.
- Check in: ask what felt clear, what needs another demonstration and what support would help next week.
Keep the plan flexible: the supervisor decides tasks and readiness. This is an onboarding aid, not a competency assessment or proof of permission to provide services.
Return to the supervisor onboarding guide
Requirements reference: BACB supervision and training resources, checked November 3, 2026. Confirm current requirements with the BACB and your employer.