Behavior Specialist

Behavior Specialist

The Behavior Specialist plays a critical role in providing specialized behavioral support services to individuals across various settings. This position supports the development and implementation of individualized behavior intervention plans under the direction and approval of a qualified supervisor, while also delivering training and guidance to Care Team staff to ensure effective plan execution. The Behavior Specialist collaborates with a multidisciplinary team to ensure effective and consistent application of behavior support strategies. Key responsibilities include monitoring and evaluating the progress of individuals, conducting data analysis, and adjusting intervention plans as needed. The Behavior Specialist is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for individuals by promoting positive behaviors and addressing challenging behaviors through evidence-based practices.

This position requires completion of the specified degree within 90 calendar days of the employee's start date. The employee is responsible for providing documentation confirming degree completion. If the required degree is not obtained within the 90-day timeframe, the employee will no longer meet the minimum qualifications for the position and employment will be terminated.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Meets with assigned individuals to assist in the development and implementation of Behavior Support Plans (BSP) under the guidance and approval of a qualified supervisor.
• Acts as a member of a team addressing significant behavioral and/or medical changes in consumers and regularly reviews and revises the Behavior Support Plan (BSP) and any related support guidelines or restrictive procedures plans with input from key persons such as the supported individual, other care team members, and external stakeholders.
• Trains staff directly working with the consumer to implement the BSP; may model how to work with the consumer and directly intervene when challenging behavior occurs. May assist with general training of staff regarding behavior management.
• Participates in monthly clinical/behavioral consultation meetings with residential managers and direct service providers
• Develops and implements multi-site crisis management and behavioral management support services including on-site staff support, as well as hands on crisis management assistance if required. May be available by phone when emergencies occur; may assist in person.
• Provides support and debriefing to staff and individuals supported following incidents, including conducting post-crisis management services reviews and consultation.
• Compiles internal and external reports as required; analyzes data and makes recommendations.
• Maintains comprehensive notes and tracking records as required.
• Participate in team and agency staff meetings and required in service training sessions. Regularly communicates and meets with Supervisor.
• Ensure program records are properly maintained, and reports are prepared and submitted on time, including but not limited to, time and attendance and electronic case records. Enters data into an electronic consumer database each day of work.
• Assists in communicating with family members and friends of the individuals supported as appropriate.
• Participates in inter-agency meetings for the supported individual and assists with the development of outcomes and goals.
• Assists with resident abuse and neglect assessment issues and communicate findings with home manager, compliance, clinical and operations' leadership. Cooperates regarding investigations and inspections.

Education and Qualifications:

• Must be 21 years of age or older.
• Bachelor's degree in psychology or related field required, Master's degree preferred.
• Minimum 1-2 years' experience working with both mentally ill and intellectually disabled adult populations is preferred.
• Experience with behavioral observations and interventions with complex, high intense/high frequency behaviors is required.
• Skilled in teaching and coaching staff to implement Behavior Support Plans (BSP).
• Approved by the state, federal, and local governmental entities to work within BSLS programs.
• Maintains own mandatory training and certification requirements.
• Required experience with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Must possess a valid Driver's License.
• Must pass a criminal background check.
• Proficient in speaking, reading and writing the English language required.

Skills and Abilities:

• Must be able to communicate and function in an interdisciplinary team.
• Skilled in teaching and coaching staff to implement Behavior Support Plans (BSP)
• Strong computer skills utilizing various software programs and applications.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to create professional employee communication materials.
• Works well independently.
• Demonstrated organizational skills and the ability to multitask and meet project deadlines.
• Capable of working well with all levels of the organization.
• A professional demeanor.
• Ability to work with little daily supervision.

Work Environment:

Most of your job duties will be performed from our corporate office, or in our homes or day programs. You may have potential for exposure to infectious disease and physical and verbally aggressive behaviors. Universal precautions are required to minimize the risk of infections. Work sites may include locations that are not barrier-free. Duties are performed in an environment where there is a potential for physical aggression from individuals.

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus. This would require the ability to lift files, open filing cabinets, and bend or stand on a stool as necessary.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:

This is a full-time position. Days and hours of work are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Occasional evenings and weekend work may be required as job duties demand.