Behavior Specialist 1

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title

Behavioral Intervention Specialist Level I

Reports to

Executive Director of Services

Direct Reports

None

FLSA Status : NON-EXEMPT

DSP Status : NO

This job description is intended to describe the nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this position. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required of the job incumbents.

GENERAL SUMMARY

Responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing person-centered Behavior Support Plans for individuals receiving Day Habilitation services and Intensive Respite services. Provides information, assistance, and training to employees who work with individuals with Behavior Support Plan and assists team members concerning behavioral issues. Responsible for collecting, compiling, and analyzing data to monitor plan effectiveness and/or need for revision. Ensure plans are in accordance with OPWDD regulations and agency policies and procedures. Collaborate with program staff to develop and facilitate social and skill-building activities that support individuals’ behavioral goals and positive social outcomes.

COMPANY STANDARDS

• Maintains regular attendance and punctuality in order to provide ensure quality services to individuals served and to act as a positive role model for employees. This position performs all hours onsite and at all assigned physical locations of service, unless exceptions are determined to be based on business needs and approved.
• Follows and ensures that all employees and individuals follow all safety rules and regulations, including wearing/using required personal protective equipment while working. Immediately addresses and reports any safety concerns or unsafe working conditions to the Executive Director of Services or the Safety Officer.
• Ensures that all aspects of position are in compliance with the JM Murray mission statement, policies and procedures, professional standards, and applicable governmental laws, rules and regulations.
• Demonstrates both personal accountability and the development of confidence and accountability of employees, to ensure that day-to-day issues and concerns are responded to and resolved in a timely manner.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Maintain current and working knowledge of federal, state, and local regulations related to person-centered behavioral support and ensure Behavior Support Plans developed and implemented are compliant. In coordination with the Director of Day Habilitation and Day Habilitation employees and/or Site Based or Intensive Respite staff, review and determine behavioral support needs of individuals receiving services.
2. In coordination with the Director of Day Habilitation and Intensive Respite Staff, review and determine behavioral support needs of individuals currently receiving Intensive Respite Services or are interested in being referred to Intensive Respite services.
3. Attend Life Plan meetings as a member of the individual’s planning team and provide relevant information regarding the target behaviors addressed in the Behavior Support Plan, proactive and reactive interventions implemented based on the Behavior Support Plan, and interpretations of current data.
4. Develop, implement, review, revise, and oversee person-centered Behavior Support Plans in compliance with OPWDD regulations and agency policies and procedures.

1. Ensure all employees involved with Behavior Support Plan implementation are adequately trained on the plan by conducting annual trainings following reviews of the plans, training staff who are new to working with an individual with a Behavior Support Plan, providing additional training as needed, and periodically observing Behavior Support Plan implementation to ensure compliance. Work cooperatively with management to address issues or concerns that may arise.
2. Collaborate with program staff to develop and facilitate social and skill-building activities that support individuals’ behavioral goals and positive social outcomes. Facilitate and support structured social skills groups and activities designed to improve interpersonal functioning, communication, and behavioral outcomes.
3. Provide guidance and modeling to staff to ensure activities are implemented using positive behavioral support principles.
4. Collect, compile, and interpret daily and monthly data from Behavior Support Plan implementation in a timely fashion to document individuals’ response to interventions as well as determine the need for plan revisions.
5. Complete annual clinical summaries to document progress individuals have made on Behavior Support Plans during the year using available data, information from implementing staff, Life Plan meeting discussions, observations, and other informative interactions.
6. Prepare monthly note templates with current data and contact appropriate staff when monthly notes are ready to be completed. Ensure monthly notes are completed and reviewed per agency policies.
7. Conduct observations for behaviors exhibited by individuals receiving Day Habilitation, Site Based Respite, and Intensive Respite Services. Report findings and recommendations to the appropriate directors.
8. Maintain record of Inappropriate Behavior Reporting (IBR) Forms and facilitate IBR meetings, offer insight and analysis of trends or observations discovered in IBRs, discuss progress/regression of current Behavior Support Plans, discuss the need to implement new Behavioral Support Plans based on IBR data, and discuss any changes that may be needed for current plans.
9. Conduct Functional Behavioral Assessments as specified in the OPWDD regulations prior to initial Behavior Support Plans and as needed. Utilize the information obtained in the Functional Behavioral Assessments to inform information in the Behavior Support Plan.
10. Collects, reviews, approves, and files monthly behavior notes.
11. Ensure restrictive or intrusive plans adhere to the guidelines set forth by OPWDD regulations, ensure informed consent has been given, and are approved by the Human Rights Committee prior to implementation
12. Attends all required and requested training and meetings. May be assigned to conduct service specific training. Ensures assigned staff are scheduled for required training, and that they complete and maintain all required training and certifications.
13. Conducts self in a manner as to always contribute to maximum individual growth and in accordance with all regulations, the DSP Code of Ethics and Company policy and procedures. Represents JM Murray and the JM Murray mission in a positive manner, treating people with respect and dignity.
14. Performs additional duties and responsibilities, as assigned.

COLLABORATION

INTERNAL

JM Murray Administration

JM Murray Services Management and Staff

EXTERNAL

Employees of external agencies involved in the planning/development of the Behavior Support Plan

Families and providers of individuals served

Care Coordination Managers

Psychologists, physicians, or other clinicians involved with the individual receiving services

OPWDD Liaisons involved with Intensive Respite approvals

EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE

Must have the following educational background:

1. at least a Master’s degree from a program in a clinical or treatment field of psychology, social work, school psychology, special education or applied psychology as it relates to human development and clinical interventions, and documented training in assessment techniques and behavior support plan development

- or -

1. a national board certification in behavior analysis (BCBA) or a NYS license as a Behavior Analyst (LBA); or/and a Master's degree in either:
   1. behavior analysis, or
   2. a field closely related to clinical or community psychology that is approved by OPWDD

- or -

1. a New York State license in mental health counseling

Must have been employed as a Level 2 BIS, at the master’s degree level, for three years, or have the following experience:

1. at least three years of experience:
   1. working directly with individuals with developmental disabilities, including the development, implementation, and monitoring of behavior support plans, and/or
   2. providing supervision and training to others in the implementation of behavior support plans

KNOWLEDGE and SKILLS

Experience or training in developing Behavior Support Plans and Functional Behavioral Assessments

Must be knowledgeable in statistical analysis and proficient in Word and Excel

Computer knowledge and skills

Ability to lift at least 30 pounds

Sound decision-making and judgment

Strong communication and writing skills

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

NYS driver’s license and acceptable driving record

Reliable, inspected personal vehicle

Proof of NYS minimum insurance coverage if requested.

Clearances required through NYS Justice Center (OPWDD/OMH criminal background check), the NYS Office of Children and Family Services, the Office of People with Developmental Disabilities, and the NYS Department of Motor Vehicles.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Job assignments may take place indoors and outdoors and require travel to various community locations, in various environmental conditions including rain, snow and cold weather.

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PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Job-related physical abilities an individual must possess in order to perform the job in a satisfactory manner. In some cases, accommodations may be made in accordance with JM Murray policy and with our mission.

0-24 %

25 -49 %

50 -74 %

75 –100 %

Standing/Walking/Mobility: Must be able to stand to operate equipment; mobility to embark and disembark from equipment.

X

Environmental Conditions: Must be able to work in an environment that includes, but is not limited to noise, cold, heat and odors.

X

External Conditions: Must be able to work in a position requiring exposure to the weather conditions.

X

Lifting: Must be able to lift unaided, at least 10lbs

X

Must be able to lift unaided, from 11-30lbs

X

Must be able to lift unaided, from 31-70lbs

X

Must be able to lift unaided, from 71-100lbs

X

Must be able to lift unaided, over 100lbs

X

Manipulating/Grasping/Feeling: Must be able to write, type, and use office and/or other equipment and handle materials.

X

APPLICANTS

I have reviewed this job description and I am able to perform the essential functions as outlined. I have discussed any questions I may have about this job description prior to signing this document.

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EMPLOYEE

I have reviewed this job description and I understand all of my job duties and responsibilities. I am able to perform the essential functions as outlined. I understand that my job may change on a temporary or regular basis according to the needs of my department without it being specifically included in the job description. I have discussed any questions I may have about this job description prior to signing this document.

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