Behavior Specialist (BCBA Candidate)

Join Beacon and Make a Meaningful Difference

Beacon is a successful, national private-equity-backed behavioral health organization providing residential-based services and supports to children and adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Severe Mental Illness (SMI), and individuals with high-acuity behavioral needs. Guided by our core values of Integrity, Compassion, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence (I CARE), we are committed to delivering exceptional, person-centered care that improves lives and strengthens communities.

We are seeking a dedicated Behavior Specialist who is actively pursuing Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification and is passionate about supporting individuals with complex behavioral needs through evidence-based interventions.

Position Summary

The Behavior Specialist plays a critical role in assessing, developing, and implementing individualized behavioral support services across multiple settings. This position works collaboratively with interdisciplinary teams to create meaningful behavior intervention strategies, train and support direct care staff, and monitor treatment outcomes to ensure the highest quality of care.

This is an excellent opportunity for professionals pursuing BCBA certification who are looking to gain hands-on experience in behavioral assessment, intervention planning, staff training, and crisis management while working with diverse populations.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and regularly update Behavior Support Plans (BSPs), restrictive procedure plans, and related behavioral guidelines.
• Collaborate with individuals served, care teams, family members, community stakeholders, and interdisciplinary professionals to address behavioral and clinical needs.
• Train, coach, and mentor direct care staff on effective implementation of BSPs and evidence-based behavior support strategies.
• Provide direct intervention and modeling during challenging behavioral situations when necessary.
• Deliver crisis management support, including on-site assistance, consultation, and post-crisis debriefing.
• Analyze behavioral data, monitor progress, and make recommendations to improve outcomes.
• Prepare and submit required internal and external reports while maintaining accurate electronic documentation.
• Participate in interdisciplinary meetings, treatment planning, and goal development.
• Support investigations related to abuse, neglect, and compliance concerns as needed.
• Participate in on-call responsibilities and provide behavioral consultation during emergencies.

Qualifications

Required

• Must be actively pursuing BCBA certification to be considered.
• Bachelor's degree in Psychology, Applied Behavior Analysis, Human Services, Special Education, or a related field.
• Experience conducting behavioral assessments and implementing interventions for individuals with complex, high-intensity, or high-frequency challenging behaviors.
• Strong ability to teach, coach, and support staff in implementing Behavior Support Plans.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel regionally.
• Ability to pass required criminal background screenings.
• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

Preferred

• Master's degree in a behavioral health or related field.
• One to two years of experience supporting adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities and/or mental health diagnoses.
• Experience working in residential, community-based, or behavioral health settings.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong understanding of behavior analysis principles and evidence-based interventions.
• Ability to work effectively within interdisciplinary teams.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Strong problem-solving and data-analysis abilities.
• Professional, compassionate, and person-centered approach to service delivery.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

Work Environment

This position primarily works from Beacon's corporate office, residential homes, and day program locations. The role may involve exposure to infectious diseases and individuals exhibiting physical or verbal aggression. Employees are expected to follow all safety protocols and universal precautions.

Physical Requirements

The position requires regular communication, observation, documentation, and mobility throughout various program locations. Employees may occasionally need to lift materials, access files, bend, stoop, or stand for extended periods.

Schedule

Full-Time

Monday – Friday | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Occasional evenings, weekends, and on-call responsibilities may be required based on operational needs.

Why Join Beacon?

At Beacon, you'll have the opportunity to grow your clinical expertise while making a lasting impact in the lives of individuals with complex behavioral needs. We offer a collaborative environment where aspiring BCBAs can develop professionally, gain valuable field experience, and contribute to meaningful outcomes for those we serve.

If you are passionate about behavior analysis and are actively working toward your BCBA certification, we encourage you to apply and become part of our mission-driven team.