A behavioral specialist usually works in the special education department of a school district and deals with students who have behavior problems. The job description of a behavioral specialist involves case management and the development of behavior plans for students receiving special education services.
A behavioral specialist is the individual responsible for assessing students with behavior issues, collecting data on the students, working with teachers, counselors and school psychologists to devise a behavior plan for the student and evaluating the effectiveness of the plan.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities of a Behavioral Specialist
•Compiles and interprets test results to diagnose students’ conditions and assess eligibility for special services.
•Reports possible cases of child abuse, neglect or endangerment to the proper authorities.
•Determines behavior capabilities of students as they function at home and in school.
•Designs behavioral interventions for students.
•Implements behavior support plans.
•Measures goals and objectives of behavior support plans to ensure they are being met.
•Coordinates between teachers and parents to implement behavioral interventions.
•Communicates with parents and case managers in regard to students’ progress.
•Analyzes the behavioral interventions to determine their success.
•Assists students in identifying inappropriate behaviors and develop better behavior alternatives.
•Creates and executes AEPS or Affiliated Education Programs Services assessments for children in special education classes.
•Designs classes, programs and special curriculum to meet the individual needs of students.
•Assists caregivers in facilitating behavioral interventions.
•Records the progress of children receiving special education services.
•Monitors and adjusts special education programs designed for each child.
•Maintains records of students’ special education reports, services provided and behavioral data.
Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
•Must have a strong foundation in applied behavior analysis.
•Must have an understanding of behavioral characteristics associated with behavior disorders, autism, intellectualdisabilities, traumatic brain injuries and other behavior issues.
•Has good communication skills, both written and verbal, particularly with parents and education professionals.
•Has a basic understanding of instructional methods and education curriculums.
•Must have excellent interpersonal skills.
•Must be able to handle emotionally charged situations.
•Has the ability to train other people to apply behavior management techniques effectively.
•Has knowledge of and knows how to work with various support systems that are available in a community.
•Must know and understand state and federal laws and regulations associated with special education.
•Has the ability to communicate with hearing impaired children using sign language when necessary.
Education and Experience
•Bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work or human services.
•Experience working with individuals with special needs.
•Master’s degree in psychology or social work.
•Specialty certificate in Applied Behavioral Analysis.
•State license when treating patients in clinical setting.
•Time will be spent working in schools, clinics and government institutions.
•Must be able to travel to different locations usually within a city, county or state.
•Must be able to travel to students’ homes to meet with parents or other caregivers.
•Must be able to work in a smoke-free environment.
•Average salaries range from $38,000 to $64,000.
•Hourly pay ranges for $25 per hour to $45 per hour.