Behavioral Specialist

Department: Foster Family Services, San Diego    Reports To: Lead Clinician    FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

About the Role

The Behavioral Specialist provides expertise and Early Intervention Services and/or Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy to children ages 0-17 years and their families. This role plays an integral part in delivering direct educational information to caregivers regarding minors’ developmental and behavioral needs, exemplifying a family-centered philosophy and respect for cultural diversity.

Responsibilities

• Interview Unaccompanied Minors (UC) and other involved persons to gather personal and social data relevant to assessing psychological (mental, behavioral, and emotional) and risk factors.
• Conduct thorough assessments to understand the underlying causes and patterns of behavior.
• Identify specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) behavior goals.
• Develop and implement positive behavior supports and intervention strategies to address significant behavioral problems for youth and their families/caregivers in various environments under direct supervision.
• Collaborate with the clinical team to support the creation and implementation of stabilization and service plans.
• Maintain regular communication with interdisciplinary team members and provide updates on case progress.
• Complete appropriate documentation and ensure case records are complete and compliant.
• Work independently with youth and/or families in settings including homes, community, and/or treatment settings.
• Provide on-call coverage as assigned.
• Carry out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree from a four-year college or university; one to two years of related experience and/or training.
• Bachelor’s Degree (BA/BS) in Psychology, Behavioral Science, Education, or a related field.
• At least 21 years of age.

Skills

• Problem Solving: Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; gathers and analyzes information skillfully; develops alternative solutions; works well in group problem-solving situations; uses reason even when dealing with emotional topics.
• Communications: Expresses ideas and thoughts verbally and in written form; exhibits good listening and comprehension; keeps others adequately informed; selects and uses appropriate communication methods.
• Teamwork: Balances team and individual responsibilities; exhibits objectivity and openness to others' views; gives and welcomes feedback; contributes to building a positive team spirit; supports everyone's efforts to succeed.
• Planning/Organizing: Prioritizes and plans work activities; uses time efficiently; plans for additional resources; sets goals and objectives; organizes or schedules other people and their tasks; develops realistic action plans.
• Professionalism: Approaches others in a tactful manner; reacts well under pressure; treats others with respect and consideration regardless of their status or position; accepts responsibility for own actions; follows through on commitments.
• Judgement: Displays willingness to make decisions; exhibits sound and accurate judgment; supports and explains reasoning for decisions; includes appropriate people in the decision-making process; makes timely decisions.
• Language Ability: Spanish preferred but not required. Ability to read, analyze, and interpret business, professional, technical, or governmental documents. Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from managers, customers, and the public.
• Mathematical Ability: Comprehend and apply principles of advanced calculus, algebra, and advanced statistical theory. Work with concepts such as limits, rings, quadratic and differential equations, and proofs of theorems.
• Reasoning Ability: Apply logical thinking to a wide range of intellectual and practical problems. Deal with nonverbal symbolism (e.g., formulas and equations) in difficult phases. Deal with a variety of abstract and concrete variables.
• Computer Skills: Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and standard office equipment.

Work Environment

The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

Physical Demands

• Regularly required to sit.
• Frequently required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel and talk or hear.
• Occasionally required to stand and walk.
• Must be able to occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required include close vision.

Pay

$27.40 - $28.37 per hour

Benefits

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• 401(k) with company matching
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid Holidays
• Flexible Spending Account
• Company-paid Life Insurance
• Voluntary Life Insurance (employee-paid)
• Employee Assistance Program