Job Description
Job Summary: The Behavior Specialist works closely with VAC team and students/clients to assess student/client behavior and skills in order to develop effective ABA intervention programs for students/clients with Autism and other Developmental Disabilities. Conducts assessments and collaborates with VAC team: (BCBA Clinical Director Program Directors, Site Facilitator, Program Manager(s), IA’s, and Direct Care Staff), parents and other stakeholders as required to determine placement, programming, and on-going services. Works in collaboration with the clinical team to develop and maintain student/client progress via the Individual Education Plan (IEP), Individual Program Plan (IPP)/Individual Service Plan (ISP) goals and insurance requirements. Job Requirements: Consult with VAC team to develop, maintain and implement behavior plans, skills-based programming, and treatment plans for students/clients with various developmental disabilities. Responsible for modeling and monitoring the behavior plans and skill-based programming, in order to evaluate the effectiveness of instructional methods, techniques and behavior management strategies. Ability to exercise appropriate QBS safety care techniques Administer norm referenced tests of adaptive skills, language skills, social skills and instructional performance to determine placement and appropriate goals. Provide behavior support to employees and students/clients, including one-on-one assistance as needed. Address staff, parents, and other stakeholders regarding behavior related questions and concerns for student programs. Attends supervision sessions with team members (individual and group). Provide initial background information for new students/clients to VAC team. Obtain and analyze data pertaining to student’s IPP/client’s ISP goals. Work with a variety of students/clients within the Autism Spectrum or with other Developmental Disabilities. Provides training to staff on ABA techniques and specific programming as advised by the BCBA Clinical Director or Program Director. Provides parent training, case supervision and treatment modification for clients in line with insurance requirements Works in conjunction with the Site Facilitator, BCBA and Program Managers on report writing for annuals bi-annuals, quarterlies, and insurance reports. Works in conjunction with BCBA, Clinical Director and Program Director to ensure services have been provided for all authorized hours including KRC and Insurance. Ability to exercise appropriate behavior management techniques when necessary. Follow appropriate chain of command when faced with concerns related to students, parents, VAC vendors, supervisors and other employees. Demonstrates accuracy, thoroughness, and personal accountability; looks for ways to improve or promote Program Quality. Attends, and actively participates in, all required employee meetings/trainings, including presenting goals and progress at IEP and/or IPP meetings. Adheres to all VAC policies and procedures as outlined in the Employee Handbook. Exemplifies VAC’s Mission, Vision and Core Values. Performs other duties as assigned. Job Qualifications: 2 plus years of prior experience in related setting. Previous experience creating instructional or behavioral programming. Proficiency in computer applications including Microsoft Office, Word and Excel, specifically graphing and data analysis software. Demonstrated knowledge of Applied Behavior Analysis techniques. Ability to communicate effectively (oral and written) with students, parents, VAC vendors, supervisors and other employees. Ability to work as a team, actively participate and collaborate with other team members. Knowledge of crisis management techniques required. Ability to maintain composure, remains objective, demonstrate sound judgment and react effectively in a challenging situations. Must possess the following competencies: analytical and problem solving. Prior experience working with individuals with Developmental Disabilities required. Flexible and adaptable to program and organizational changes. Exhibits a positive, solution oriented and motivating demeanor at all times. Educational Requirements: Bachelor Degree in Psychology, Education, Human and Child Development, Early Childhood Education, or related field required. Master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis preferred. Physical Requirements: Lifting and carrying up to 60 lbs. without assistance. Frequent squatting, sitting, walking, standing, bending and twisting, knee