Inclusion and Behavior Support Specialist

Afterschool Inclusion and Behavior Support Specialist

PJA Afterschool is seeking an Inclusion and Behavior Support Specialist to provide on-site assistance to students in our care who exhibit diverse learning, behavioral and social-emotional needs. This position focuses on individualized support, staff collaboration, and creating inclusive program practices.

Location: SW Portland PPS Site

Wage: $22.00-$26/hour

Hours: Part-time, 3:00pm until 6:00pm M-F

Benefits: We support our staff so they can do their best work

• Generous PTO, vacation, sick leave, and holiday pay
• Paid planning time
• Professional development opportunities
• Free mental health benefits and free gym membership
• Tuition discounts for employees' children

PJA Afterschool provides a safe, engaging, and enriching environment for youth. We are committed to fostering a community where every student feels valued, supported, and able to fully participate in all activities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide direct support to students with varying needs, including behavioral, developmental, and social-emotional support
• Understand state licensing regulations, restrictions and requirements
• Collaborate with program staff to implement inclusive strategies and accommodations
• Develop and adapt activities to ensure accessibility for all participants
• Support positive behavior interventions and conflict resolution
• Communicate effectively with families, caregivers, and external partners as needed
• Maintain documentation related to student support plans and progress
• Participate in staff training and contribute to ongoing program development

Qualifications:

• Experience working with children or youth in educational, recreational, or support settings
• Knowledge of inclusive practices, behavior support strategies, or special education principles
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to remain patient, flexible, and solution-oriented in dynamic environments
• CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)
• Relevant education or certifications (e.g., education, psychology, social work) [preferred]
• Background in trauma-informed care or restorative practices [preferred]
• High School Diploma or GED; AND
• At least 18 years of age; AND
• Enrolled in Central Background Registry (Required: get started HERE if not already enrolled)

This is an active, hands-on role:

• Fast-paced and often noisy environment
• May involve lifting up to 50 pounds, as well as bending, standing, and moving throughout the day
• Responsibility for maintaining a clean and safe space
• Requires vision and hearing within standard ranges and clear speaking ability

PJA is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Portland Jewish Academy (PJA) is committed to recruiting, hiring, developing, compensating, and promoting the best-qualified individuals for positions at all levels in the organization. We provide Equal Opportunity Employment (EEO) to all employees and applicants. Employment decisions are made based on how an individual's skills and qualifications meet the responsibilities of the position for which they have applied. An individual will be free from discrimination based on characteristics protected by law such as race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, marital status, national origin, citizenship status, disability, veteran status, or the presence of a non-job-related physical, mental, or sensory disability, or other protected status as defined by federal, state, or local laws. Discrimination and/or harassment based on any of those factors are totally inconsistent with our philosophy of doing business and will not be tolerated. PJA will make reasonable accommodations, including modification of organizational policies and procedures in appropriate cases for qualified individuals with disabilities if it can do so without undue hardship.