What are the responsibilities and job description for the Behavior Specialist 2025-26 position at Exploration Elementary Charter School?
Organization: Exploration Elementary Charter School for Science and Technology
Reports To: Director of Wellness
Duration: 11-Month Position
Compensation: $52,000 - $62,000
Benefits: Health Care Options, PTO, Sick Days
Job Details
Full-time
Onsite
Position Summary
Under the direct supervision of the Director of Wellness the Behavior Specialist will provide comprehensive support to meet the academic, social, emotional, and developmental needs of students at Exploration. The counselor works collaboratively with students, staff, families, and community partners to create a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where all students can thrive.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement individualized behavior intervention plans (BIPs) to support students with behavioral needs.
- Conduct functional behavior assessments (FBAs) to identify the root causes of challenging behaviors.
- Collaborate with teachers, support staff, and families to promote positive behavior strategies in the classroom and school environment.
- Provide direct support and interventions to students, using evidence-based practices.
- Monitor and document student progress, adjusting interventions as needed.
- Conduct training sessions for staff and families on behavior management techniques and social-emotional learning strategies.
- Assist in crisis intervention and de-escalation strategies when necessary.
- Maintain accurate records and prepare reports on student behavior and progress.
- Advocate for students' needs and foster a school culture that promotes respect, inclusion, and emotional well-being.
- Design and develop social-emotional learning (SEL) lesson plans for teachers to implement throughout the school year.
Requirements Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Experience working with students who have behavioral challenges, preferably in an educational setting.
- Knowledge of behavior management strategies, trauma-informed practices, and social-emotional learning frameworks.
- Strong collaboration, problem-solving, and communication skills.
- Familiarity with data collection tools and behavioral assessment techniques.
- Ability to remain calm and responsive in crisis situations.
- Commitment to educational equity and supporting diverse learners.
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Social Work, Special Education, or a related field
- Master’s degree preferred
Certification
- Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) preferred
Experience
- Prior experience with high need students in an urban public school or charter school prioritized
- Experience working with a culturally and ethnically diverse population is strongly desired.
Additional Details
The hiring process for this position will require you to perform a fingerprinted background check through the New York State TEACH System. Any written or verbal offer is contingent on satisfactory results, as determined by NYSED and HR/Operations Manager. Exploration does not discriminate based on race, color, creed, age, marital status, sex, gender, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, veteran status, or disability in its hiring, educational programs, and school events/activities. Exploration promotes diversity and provides equal opportunity for qualified applicants. Exploration can and will provide reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities under the Rehabilitation Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the New York Human Rights Law, or similar applicable law.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $52,000.00 - $62,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
Schedule:
- Day shift
- Monday to Friday
- No weekends
Work Location: In person
Salary : $52,000 - $62,000