The Behavior Specialist supports middle and high school students in achieving positive behavioral change and independence. They are responsible for conducting assessments, developing support plans, and coaching classroom staff on management techniques.
Requirements summary
Requires a Master's degree in a related field with clinical licensure preferred, or at least 5 years of experience in Emotional Support Programs. Candidates must have experience with ABC data collection and possess valid Pennsylvania clearances and a driver's license.
postgraduate degreeMicrosoft OfficeData ManagementClassroom ManagementCrisis PreventionBehavioral InterventionsFunctional Behavioral AssessmentsChild WelfareIEP CollaborationPositive Behavior Support PlansSmall Group FacilitationFamily Support ServicesABC Data Collection
Job description
Behavior Specialist Program
Holy
Family
Specialized
Learning
Reports to:
Education
Director
Location:
Holy
Family
Specialized
Hours: 10-month Full-time, Salary, exempt position with flexibility.
Essential
FUNCTIONS: The behavioral specialist position supports middle and high school students in building independence, developing skills, and achieving positive behavioral change, while equipping staff with effective strategies and interventions.
KEY
Responsibilities:
Conduct Functional Behavioral Assessments to identify root causes of challenging behaviors.
Develop individualized Positive Behavior Support Plans based on assessment data.
Implement behavioral interventions directly with students identified as needing an enhanced level of support within the classroom.
Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of intervention plans and make necessary adjustments with behavioral health and IEP team.
Collaborate with individuals, IEP and related service providers to create positive, least-restrictive interventions that promote student growth and independence.
Coach staff on behavior plans, data collection, and crisis prevention strategies.
Complete progress reports and attend regular supervision meetings.
Provide direct training and support to classroom staff on behavior management techniques including:
whole classroom behavior management
whole classroom structure
assist with small group facilitation
Assist with implementation of Positive Behavior Intervention Supports.
Requirements
Master’s degree in Social Work, Counseling, Education or a related field required; clinical licensure (BCBA, LCSW, LISW, LPC, etc.) preferred OR a minimum of 5 years of experience supporting students in Emotional Support Programs.
Experience with ABC Data Collection (Antecedent, Behavior, Consequence) and conducting behavioral assessments.
Strong knowledge of child welfare, family support services, and evidence-based practices.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and data management/reporting systems.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Must be at least 21 years of age, have a valid Pennsylvania driver’s license and obtain required clearances (Act 33, Act 34, and FBI).
Able to communicate effectively in person and by telephone.
Ability to safely and successfully perform the essential job functions consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state and local standards, including meeting qualitative and/or quantitative productivity standards.
Ability to maintain regular, punctual attendance consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state, and local standards
Ability to lift or push a minimum of 20 lbs by themselves or up to 50 lbs with the assistance of others.
About Holy Family Specialized Learning
Holy Family Specialized Learning is a Licensed Private Academic School that provides social, emotional and behavioral support and individualized academic interventions to students whose needs exceed their home school district's capacity for support.
HFI
MISSION
DUTIES: Holy Family Institute (HFI) is a 125-year-old Catholic organization with an impeccable history of serving children and families in the Pittsburgh Region. We are one of Pittsburgh’s largest social service organizations operating 15 programs in three counties. We are an independent organization guided by Catholic Social Teachings and serving people of all faiths and backgrounds. COMMITMENT TO SOCIAL JUSTICE Holy Family Institute and its affiliated organizations are committed to an environment that respects and values every human being and individual differences. We will invest time and resources to create an inclusive environment for all of our stakeholders. This means we will respect diversity that includes race, ethnicity, gender, socioeconomic status, education, disability, language, and sexual orientation. We also believe that we should be “Faithful Listeners” and embrace diversity of ideas, perspectives, and values. We believe in providing access, opportunity, fair treatment, and advancement for all people. Believing that “God is Found in Everyday Activities” we will do our best to eliminate barriers that prevent full participation in our programs and services. We believe “Loving Relationships” means that all are welcome, all are neighbors, and there are no exceptions. With this belief we aim to create an environment in which any individual or group can feel welcomed, respected, supportive, and valued. Holy Family Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Market context
Behavior specialist roles remain in steady demand
In Pennsylvania, behavior specialist openings are commonly tied to schools, behavioral health, and IDD service settings, where employers look for candidates who can support individualized behavior plans and collaborate with care teams. These roles are competitive because many postings prefer a master’s degree, relevant MH/IDD experience, and a valid driver’s license; review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time on the original posting. If you’re applying, be ready to show specific examples of behavior support, documentation, and family or team coordination.
