Behavioral Intervention Specialist Level 1 - The Jewish Board : Job Details

Make a bigger difference

POSITION OVERVIEW:

The Behavior Specialist, Level 1, will design, implement, and monitor Behavior Management Programs, Instructional Goals, and Valued Outcomes for individuals using the Positive Approaches Paradigm. Familiarity with OPWDD and DOH regulations related to the intermediate Care Facility (ICF), Independent Residence Alternative (IRA), and Community Services such as Day Habilitation is required. The specialist will manage a caseload of up to 35 individuals, assist in coverage, and travel routinely to units, IRAs, day programs, and community settings. Responsibilities include communication and training of interdisciplinary teams, outside providers, and family members, along with timely documentation.

KEY ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Administer and interpret assessments of clients' cognitive, social/motivational, and adaptive skills.
• Conduct Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs) to identify triggers and patterns of challenging behaviors.
• Develop Behavior Support Plans (BSPs) based on OPWDD regulations and best practices (e.g., ABA, PBS).
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to ensure consistency in behavioral interventions.
• Complete observations and provide training on behavior supports.

• Implement and monitor behavior support strategies, adjusting as needed.
• Conduct ongoing assessments and modify BSPs accordingly.
• Collaborate with team members to ensure effective intervention delivery.

• Implement OPWDD-approved crisis intervention techniques such as SCIP-R.
• Promote proactive, least-restrictive strategies to reduce restrictive interventions.
• Serve as a SCIP-R trainer and provide related training sessions.

• Maintain compliance with OPWDD, NYS regulations, and agency policies.
• Accurately document behavioral incidents, progress notes, and billing information.
• Participate in team meetings, Human Rights reviews, and audits.

• Actively participate in interdisciplinary team processes.
• Attend and advocate during Life Plan and IPP meetings.
• Coordinate care with psychologists, psychiatrists, nursing, and clinical teams.
• Engage in weekly team meetings and audits.

EDUCATIONAL/TRAININGS REQUIRED:

• A master's degree in a relevant clinical or treatment field, or documented training in assessment and behavior support plan development; OR
• National Board Certification as a Behavior Analyst (BACB); OR
• NYS license as a Behavior Analyst (LBA); OR
• A master's in behavior analysis or a related field approved by OPWDD; OR
• NYS license in mental health counseling.

EXPERIENCE:

• Minimum three years of experience working directly with individuals with developmental disabilities, including developing, implementing, and monitoring behavior support plans; OR
• Supervising and training staff in behavioral techniques; OR
• Experience as a Level 2 BIS at the master's level for three years.

CORE COMPETENCIES:

• Knowledge of NYS OPWDD policies, HCBS Waiver services, and incident reporting.
• Strong data collection and analysis skills.
• Knowledge of ABA, PBS, and trauma-informed care.
• Ability to train and mentor staff.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Proficiency with relevant software and data tracking tools.

COMPUTER SKILLS REQUIRED:

• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and data analysis software.

VISUAL AND MANUAL DEXTERITY:

• Ability to work on a computer, review charts, and speak on the phone regularly.

WORK ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL EFFORT:

• Work in OPWDD ICF, group homes, and day habilitation programs.
• Travel between sites; ability to walk, climb stairs, and lift as needed.
• Travel within Brooklyn may be required.
• Work in person five days a week, with flexible scheduling options.

Additional Notes:

• Occasional on-call availability for emergencies.
• Must pass background checks and clearances.

Benefits:

• Generous paid time off, holidays, and sick days.
• Affordable health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Tuition assistance and loan forgiveness programs.
• Continuing education opportunities.
• Retirement plans including 403(b) and pension.
• Flexible spending accounts.
• Employee Assistance Program, life, and disability insurance.

Who we are:

The Jewish Board provides mental health and social services to over 45,000 New Yorkers annually, serving diverse populations with a commitment to equity and inclusion. We encourage candidates from marginalized backgrounds to apply.

Equal Opportunity:

We are an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and nondiscrimination in all employment practices, providing accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.