The Behavior Specialist develops and implements behavior support plans to assist individuals with challenging behaviors in achieving greater independence and integration. They also provide training to staff, conduct functional assessments, and monitor compliance with state psychiatric review board requirements.
Requirements summary
Candidates must possess a degree in a related field or significant professional experience in behavior services, along with a current criminal background check. Proficiency in English, computer literacy, and the ability to meet driving requirements are also mandatory.
Category: Administrative Support ServicesAt Albertina Kerr, we believe that all people thrive in nurturing and inclusive communities. Our mission is to empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and mental health challenges to lead self-determined lives in their communities. As a Behavior Specialist, you will play a critical role in supporting individuals with complex behavioral needs through evidence‑based, person‑centered practices. You will partner closely with individuals, families, and interdisciplinary teams to design, implement, and monitor Positive Behavior Support Plans that promote safety, dignity, independence, and an enhanced quality of life. This role is ideal for a professional who is passionate about behavioral health, skilled in functional assessment and staff coaching, and motivated to create meaningful, lasting change.
Essential
DUTIES &
RESPONSIBILITIES: Conduct comprehensive functional behavioral assessments to identify the causes and functions of challenging behaviors. Develop, implement, monitor, and update Positive Behavior Support Plans (PBSPs) and related data‑tracking systems. Collaborate with individuals, families, program staff, managers, and ISP team members to ensure consistent, person‑centered behavioral supports. Provide training and coaching to staff on PBSPs, behavioral strategies, and Oregon Intervention System (OIS) principles; model appropriate interactions and reinforce best practices. Deliver direct skill‑building support to individuals, focusing on emotional regulation, social skills, conflict resolution, and independence. Consult with program leadership on behavioral concerns and recommended environmental or systemic modifications. Monitor compliance with behavior‑related requirements and state Psychiatric Review Board standards. Attend program staff meetings and support ongoing review and application of behavioral interventions. Perform other related duties as assigned. Benefits Paid medical, dental, and vision employee benefits Paid basic life & accident insurance and short- & long-term disability Paid internal training and career development Paid holidays and generous time off 401(k) retirement savings plan with up to 4% employer match 24-hour Employee Assistance Plan (EAP) that provides resources for everything from mental health to pet insurance and financial counselling Qualifications Must be proficient in the English language. Maintain a current, approved criminal background check specific to their role as a behavior professional. Complete a minimum of twelve (12) hours each biennium of ongoing education in the field of positive behavior support services, adaptive behaviors, behavior management, or a related topic. Ability to meet all reference and driving requirements. Current certified as or eligible to become a Qualified Mental Health Associate. Computer literacy with experience using Windows applications (Outlook, Word) and ability to learn other program and applications (EPIC, Excel, Teams, Zoom, etc.) Certification as an Oregon Intervention Systems trainer is preferred.
Must meet at least one of the following requirements: Possess a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) graduate-level certification in in behavior analysis and one year of experience using positive behavior support services with individuals who experience intellectual or developmental disabilities. Possess a Master of Arts, or a Master of Science, in psychology, sociology, human services, education, social work, or the equivalent as evidenced by providing transcripts indicating applicable coursework, and one year of experience using positive behavior support services with individuals who experience intellectual or developmental disabilities. Possess a Bachelor of Arts, or a Bachelor of Science, in psychology, sociology, human services, education, social work, or the equivalent as evidenced by providing transcripts indicating applicable coursework, and three (3) years of experience using positive behavior support services with individuals who experience intellectual or developmental disabilities.
No
Qualifying
Degree: A minimum of six (6) years of experience performing professional behavior services using positive behavior support services gained prior to January 1, 2023, and no less than three (3) letters of reference from case management entities who have approved Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs) or PBSPs authored by the applicant.
