Behavior Support Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an era of heightened focus on mental health, the role of Behavior Support Specialists is becoming increasingly crucial.

As society continues to prioritize emotional wellbeing, the demand for skilled professionals who can guide, support, and help individuals manage their behavior grows.

But what exactly is expected from a Behavior Support Specialist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker attempting to grasp the nuances of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the complex and rewarding field of behavioral support,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Behavior Support Specialist job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Behavior Support Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Behavior Support Specialists utilize their expert knowledge of psychology, behavior management, and counseling techniques to provide assistance to individuals with behavior issues.

They often work closely with other healthcare professionals, teachers, and families to create and implement behavior intervention plans.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Evaluating the behavior of individuals and diagnosing any behavioral or emotional issues
• Developing and implementing behavior intervention plans and strategies
• Working with individuals, families, and support groups to provide counseling and behavioral therapy
• Monitoring and assessing the effectiveness of intervention plans and making necessary adjustments
• Collaborating with teachers, psychologists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive care
• Documenting and maintaining accurate records of individuals’ behavior, progress, and responses to interventions
• Providing training and support to caregivers and family members on behavior management techniques
• Advocating for the needs and rights of individuals in various settings, including educational and healthcare environments

 

Behavior Support Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Behavior Support Specialist to join our team.

The Behavior Support Specialist will collaborate with other professionals to assess and implement behavioral intervention plans for individuals with behavioral issues.

The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of behavior analysis and techniques, and be able to apply them effectively in a supportive environment.

They should also be compassionate, patient, and have excellent communication and problem-solving skills.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and monitor individual behavior management protocols and behavior intervention plans for clients
• Conduct functional behavior assessments
• Provide direct and indirect behavioral intervention services as outlined in each client’s treatment plan
• Train and support family members and staff in behavior management techniques
• Document and report progress and any changes in behavior
• Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings
• Stay updated with latest research and techniques in behavior analysis
• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations
• Collaborate with other team members to ensure optimal client care

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Behavior Support Specialist or similar role
• Experience working with individuals with behavioral issues
• Knowledge of behavior analysis and behavioral intervention techniques
• Ability to develop and implement effective behavior intervention plans
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills
• Compassionate and patient
• Ability to work in a team
• Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Social Work, or related field
• Certification as a Behavior Analyst (BCBA) or equivalent is preferred

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Behavior Support Specialist
• Work Environment: This position may require working in various settings including schools, homes, and community settings. Travel may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Behavior Support Manager or Director of Behavioral Health.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $40,000 minimum to $60,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Behavior Support Specialist Do?

Behavior Support Specialists typically work in educational or healthcare settings, assisting individuals who exhibit challenging behaviors due to mental health issues, developmental disorders, or other emotional and behavioral disorders.

They also work closely with teachers, medical professionals, and family members to provide a supportive environment for those in need.

Their primary role involves assessing the individual’s behavioral patterns, identifying triggering factors, and developing tailored behavior management plans.

They implement strategies that support positive behavior change and monitor the progress of these interventions over time.

Behavior Support Specialists often provide training and advice to other staff members or family members on how to best interact with and support the individual.

They also liaise with other professionals, such as psychologists, therapists, and social workers, to coordinate care and ensure the best possible outcomes.

In many cases, these specialists also help individuals develop social skills, emotional regulation, and coping strategies to improve their quality of life.

They may also be responsible for documenting and reporting on an individual’s progress or any behavioral incidents.

Behavior Support Specialists play a crucial role in helping individuals manage their behavior, ultimately supporting their well-being and social integration.

 

Behavior Support Specialist Qualifications and Skills

A Behavior Support Specialist should possess a unique set of skills and qualifications to effectively assist clients, including:

• Strong understanding and knowledge in behavioral analysis to identify and assess disruptive behaviors.
• Communication skills to effectively convey and explain behavior intervention plans to clients, their families, and other team members.
• Patience and compassion to work with clients who may have behavioral challenges or disabilities, exhibiting an understanding and empathetic approach.
• Problem-solving skills to develop and implement behavior intervention plans and adapt them as necessary based on client’s progress.
• Interpersonal skills to establish trustful and respectful relationships with clients and their families, maintaining a professional yet sensitive demeanor.
• Observational and analytical skills to monitor and evaluate client’s behavioral progress, noting any changes and adjusting strategies accordingly.
• Documentation skills to accurately record clients’ behavior and progress, creating a comprehensive and accurate record of each client’s journey.
• Collaboration skills to work effectively with a multidisciplinary team, including psychologists, social workers, and teachers, to provide a holistic support to the client.
• Ability to stay calm and composed in challenging situations, utilizing effective stress management strategies.

 

Behavior Support Specialist Experience Requirements

Entry-level Behavior Support Specialists often have 1 to 2 years of experience, typically gained during their studies in college where they are likely to have completed internships or part-time roles in mental health facilities or educational institutions.

These professionals can also gain valuable experience working in roles such as a behavior technician, counselor, or social worker.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience typically have honed their skills and knowledge in Behavior Support roles, where they have had ample opportunity to apply behavioral support theories and techniques in practical situations.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are considered experienced Behavior Support Specialists and may have leadership experience, making them suitable for supervisory roles or positions that require designing and implementing comprehensive behavioral support plans.

In addition to their work experience, Behavior Support Specialists often hold a Bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, education, or a related field.

Some positions may require a Master’s degree or specific certifications in areas such as applied behavior analysis.

 

Behavior Support Specialist Education and Training Requirements

Behavior Support Specialists usually have a bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, counseling, or a related field.

An understanding of human behavior, cognitive development, and psychological theory is crucial.

Coursework in these areas provides an essential foundation for understanding and implementing behavior support strategies.

Some roles may require a master’s degree in a related field or a specific certification such as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) or a Certified Behavior Support Specialist (CBSS).

Experience working with individuals with disabilities or behavior challenges is often required, which can be gained through internships, volunteering, or previous employment.

In addition to education, Behavior Support Specialists need to have strong communication and problem-solving skills, be compassionate, and have the ability to work well with a diverse group of individuals.

Continuing education and professional development are also important in this field to stay informed about new theories, techniques, and research in behavior support.

 

Behavior Support Specialist Salary Expectations

A Behavior Support Specialist earns an average salary of $42,000 (USD) per year.

The salary may vary based on factors such as level of education, years of experience, location, and the size and type of the employing organization.

 

Behavior Support Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Behavior Support Specialist need?

A Behavior Support Specialist should possess excellent communication skills to interact with individuals, their families, and other professionals.

They should also have a strong understanding of behavior analysis and intervention strategies.

Patience, empathy, and resilience are key qualities that a specialist in this role should possess.

Knowledge in crisis management and safety procedures is also crucial.

 

Do Behavior Support Specialists need a degree?

Most Behavior Support Specialist positions require a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Social Work, or a related field.

Some roles may require a Master’s degree or higher, specifically in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).

In addition to this, experience in working with individuals with behavioral challenges or special needs is typically required.

 

What should you look for in a Behavior Support Specialist resume?

The resume of a Behavior Support Specialist should reflect a strong background in behavioral analysis or a related field.

Look for experience in working with individuals with special needs, implementing behavior intervention plans, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.

Certifications in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) or as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) are highly desirable.

 

What qualities make a good Behavior Support Specialist?

A good Behavior Support Specialist is empathetic and patient, as they often work with individuals who have difficulty communicating their needs.

They need to be problem solvers who can think on their feet, as the challenges they face can be unpredictable and require immediate solutions.

Good specialists are also highly observant and detail-oriented, as understanding subtle behavioral changes can be essential to their work.

 

Is it challenging to hire Behavior Support Specialists?

Yes, hiring a Behavior Support Specialist can be challenging due to the specific qualifications and skills required for the role.

It can be difficult to find candidates who have the necessary educational background, relevant experience, and a demonstrated ability to handle the challenges of the role.

Therefore, it is important to have a well-structured recruitment process to identify and attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

There you have it.

Today, we’ve unpacked the multifaceted role of a behavior support specialist.

Guess what?

It’s not just about managing behavior.

It’s about shaping a more empathetic and understanding future, one person at a time.

Armed with our definitive behavior support specialist job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to take the plunge.

But why stop there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your passport to creating razor-sharp job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every interaction is a part of the bigger picture.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

How to Become a Behavior Support Specialist (Complete Guide)

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