Behavior Specialist

Position Title: Behavioral Specialist Reports To: Disabilities/Mental Health Manager Employment Status: Full-Time, Exempt (12-Month Position)

About the Role: We are seeking a dedicated Behavioral Specialist to join our team. This role involves providing classroom behavior support to ensure compliance with Head Start Performance Standards while fostering an environment of continuous program improvement.

Key Responsibilities

Behavioral Support

• Provide hands-on assistance to children whose behaviors interfere with classroom routines or pose safety risks.
• Support teaching staff in curriculum planning and implementation.
• Conduct classroom and individual child observations, assisting with Behavior Intervention Plans as necessary.
• Utilize data from Individualized Family Service Plans (IFSP), Individual Education Plans (IEP), and observations to implement tailored behavioral strategies.

Collaboration & Coordination

• Work closely with teaching staff, families, and external agencies to support children's behavioral and mental health needs.
• Assist with referrals for further evaluations and support families throughout the process.
• Coordinate and document progress toward IEP goals in collaboration with the Disabilities/Mental Health Manager.

Training & Development

• Train and coach staff on effective classroom management strategies and behavior techniques.
• Participate in onboarding and professional development for staff, as well as parent education sessions.

Communication

• Share information respectfully and objectively, adapting communication strategies for different audiences.
• Promote collaborative planning with teachers and specialists for family engagement activities.

Professionalism

• Stay updated on federal, state, and local program standards and help staff implement these practices.
• Maintain professional relationships and confidentiality.

Requirements

Education & Experience

• Master's degree in Education, Counseling, or a related field.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in a mental health setting, preferably working with young children.
• Proven ability to formulate and write assessments and support plans.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong understanding of early childhood mental health.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in diverse environments.
• Proficient in organizing tasks, managing time, and making informed decisions.
• Effective communication skills, both verbal and written.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds periodically.
• Frequent sitting, standing, walking, and physical activities such as lifting and balancing.

Travel

• Willingness to travel locally and occasionally out-of-area as needed.

Benefits

We value and support our team members with a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Affordable medical insurance with low individual premiums.
• Fully employer-paid benefits:
  • Vision and dental insurance.
  • Short- and long-term disability coverage.
  • Life insurance policy is valued at 2x your annual salary.
  • Employee Assistance Program for wellness and support.
• Employer contribution of 5% of your annual pay into a 401(k)-retirement plan after 6 months of employment.

• Paid holidays, including seasonal breaks (One week in November, Two weeks in December/January, and One week in March).

Access free Gold Gym memberships to support your health and well-being

Why Join Us?

We offer a supportive and collaborative work environment focused on the well-being and development of children and their families. Your contributions will have a meaningful impact on shaping positive outcomes in early childhood education and mental health.

Application Process Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their resume and cover letter detailing their qualifications and experience.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace.

Salary : $65,000 - $73,000