Behavior Specialist

$750.00 Sign On Bonus

The Behavioral Specialist (BS) is an integral support who engages with individuals, staff and families to promote progress and success in the goals and independence of people supported by NHC. The BIS, along with the team, will identify areas of behavioral concerns and develop various supportive measures and interventions. These measures include but are not limited to conducting assessments, developing and implementing behavior support plans and/or medication monitoring plans and protocols, providing counseling support, crisis interventions, attendance at routine and emergency psychiatric appointments and assisting the residence/day program in implementing successful behavioral techniques. The BS will evaluate and monitor progress using interviews, observations, and direct engagement with people supported and work in conjunction with their support team. The BS will monitor the individual, analyze progress, and adjust behavioral plans accordingly. The BS will modify activities, tasks, and materials to provide an opportunity for individuals to successfully integrate into their setting. Additionally, the BIS will provide training, coaching, and role modeling to residential/day program staff in behavioral techniques. The BS role includes the participation of behavioral on call on a rotating basis.

Ok, so what will I actually be doing every day?

1. Provides necessary support to assigned caseload.


2. Maintains knowledge about medical, and behavioral/psychological issues with regard to individuals supported.


3. Completes assessments and evaluations upon admission, routinely, and as needed.


4. Develops Behavior Support Plans, Medical Monitoring Plans, Risk Management Plans, and related plans/protocols. Develops appropriate ways to implement behavioral plans in conjunction with the program team.


5. Discusses behavioral plan/protocol implementation and program revisions with staff. Trains and mentors’ staff. Develops and provides skill training for staff, as necessary.


6. Participates in clinical team meetings, staff meetings, life plan meetings, psychiatric appointments, etc. and personally observes and reviews documents/data of assigned caseload, routinely and as needed.


7. Monitors staff compliance with plan/protocol implementation and related data collection.


8. Reviews and completes data summaries to ensure efficacy of treatment plans. Analyzes data for patterns or trends. Develops programs and data collection systems to align with behavioral engagement.


9. Assists in the preparation and presentation of necessary materials for Human Rights Committee and Informed Consent Committee.


10. Maintains working knowledge of 633.16 Behavioral Regulations and related protocols as designated by oversight agencies.


11. Assists with audits of programs, as needed, and responds to any statements of deficiencies and internal audit findings in a timely manner.


12. Assists with the implementation of recommendations and or requests of QI and/or necessary immediate protections pertaining to people supported.


13. Maintains required SCIP-R certifications.


14. Performs other duties as required.

As a Behavior Specialist you will be working with a variety of departments (clinical, residential and nursing) to develop, implement and evaluate behavior plans for the people that are supported at New Hope Community. This means that you will be applying your expertise to make a difference in people’s lives. You will have the responsibility to advocate for the individuals and assist them in achieving their best lives possible. Days can be challenging and busy but also be filled with laughter, learning, and special moments!

What characteristics are you looking for in a Behavior Specialist?

1. The BS must possess ability to work in fast paced environment, show attention to detail, have highly developed organizational skills, and the ability to utilize electronic data collection systems and software.


2. Must be able to effectively communicate and provide training, mentorship, and guidance to residential/day program staff.


3. Work closely and professionally with CORE team members and staff and under the direction of the DBS.


4. Position requires flexible hours. May include evening and weekend hours as needed.


5. Participate in on-call rotation as needed.


6. Candidate must be an active member of and possess the ability to work collaboratively as part of an interdisciplinary team including the ability to work with family members/guardians to explain plans/protocols and obtain informed consent, as needed.


7. Maintain a positive attitude and positive working relations within the department as well as across all departments of the agency.


8. Maintains open lines of communication with and flexibility of thought for creating person centered plans based on individual specific needs.

What certifications or skills do I need to be a Behavior Specialist ?

A Behavior Specialist should have a Master’s degree in Psychology, Social Work, Applied Behavior Analysis, or Counseling. BCBA, LMHC, or LMSW/LCSW preferred. Candidates should have a basic knowledge of OPWDD regulations, specifically regulation 633.16.

Why would I want to work at New Hope Community?

New Hope Community is a dynamic organization providing the highest quality of programs and services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. With a reputation as one of the region’s best employers, New Hope promotes from within and thrives on a diverse workforce dedicated to improving the lives of the people it serves.

We are a premier employer in Sullivan County, employing approximately 650 staff members. Our staff members enjoy a large variety of benefits including; Excellent Hourly Wages, Bonuses, In-Depth Training, Advancement Opportunities, and Health and Fitness Classes.  Additionally, New Hope provides Identity Fraud Protection, Term Life Insurance, Tuition Reimbursement, and so much more!

Start your career with New Hope Community, Work where it matters!'

Salary range for this position is $50,000.00 - $60,000.00.