About the Role
The Behavior Intervention Specialist, Level 1 will design, implement, and monitor Behavior Management Programs, Instructional Goals, and Valued Outcomes using the Positive Approaches Paradigm. This role requires familiarity with OPWDD and DOH regulations for Intermediate Care Facilities (ICFs), Independent Residence Alternatives (IRAs), and Community Services. The specialist will manage a caseload of up to 35 individuals, assist with coverage as needed, and travel routinely to various sites and the community. Responsibilities include communication with and training the interdisciplinary team, outside providers, and family members, as well as timely and complete documentation.
Responsibilities
- Administer and interpret clients’ cognitive, social/motivational, and adaptive living skills.
- Conduct Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs) to identify triggers, functions, and patterns of challenging behaviors.
- Develop Individualized Behavior Support Plans (BSPs) based on OPWDD regulations and best practices.
- Collaborate with Interdisciplinary teams (clinicians, SDPs, families, care managers) to ensure consistency in behavioral interventions.
- Complete observations and training regarding behavior supports.
- Interact with residential individuals daily.
- Train Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), families, and staff on behavior support strategies.
- Responsible for accurate data collection and summaries.
- Monitor and document the effectiveness of interventions through data collection and analysis.
- Adjust behavior plans as needed based on ongoing observations and progress reviews.
- Maintain a caseload of up to 35 individuals and provide coverage, as needed.
- Implement SCIP-R or other OPWDD approved crisis intervention techniques.
- Assist in reducing restrictive interventions by promoting proactive, least-restrictive strategies.
- Become a SCIP-R trainer and provide SCP-R training.
- Ensure compliance with OPWDD regulations, NYS Part 633/635, and agency policies.
- Maintain accurate records, including behavioral incidents, informational progress notes, and Medicaid billing documentation.
- Compile paperwork and participate in Human Rights, team meetings, and Psych apts.
- Participate as an active member of the interdisciplinary team process.
- Attend Life Plan and Individualized Program Plan (IPP) meetings and Life Plan reviews to advocate for behavioral needs.
- Work with psychologists, psychiatrics, nursing, and clinical teams to coordinate care.
- Participate in all weekly, bi-weekly meetings with the teams.
- Actively participate in OPWDD and DOH audits.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
- On occasion, may require on-call availability for behavioral emergencies.
Requirements
- Must pass NYS OPWDD background checks and Justice Center clearance.
Skills
- Familiarity with 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 in behavioral techniques.
- Effective communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills.
- Excellent data analysis and presentation skills.
- Proficiency with relevant software.
- Ability to use trackers.
- Strong computer skills.
- Ability to use Microsoft applications including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
- Knowledge or ability to learn software programs including use of data and trends to inform clinical practice.
- Ability to work on the computer typing reports and reviewing charts.
- Ability to speak frequently on the telephone, including a cellular phone.
Location
- Brooklyn
Work Type
- Onsite
- Full-time
Experience Level
- At least three years of experience working directly with individuals with developmental disabilities, including the development, implementation, and monitoring of behavior support plans
- At least three years of experience providing supervision and training to others in the implementation of behavior support plans
- At least three years of employment as a Level 2 BIS, at the master’s degree level
- Level 1
Education Level
- Master’s degree from a program in a clinical or treatment field of psychology, social worker, school psychology, or applied psychology as it relates to human development and clinical interventions, and documented training in assessment techniques and behavior support plan development
- National board certification in behavior analysis (BACB)
- NYS license as a Behavior Analysis (LBA)
- Master’s degree in behavior analysis or a field closely related to clinical or community psychology that is approved by OPWDD
- NYS license in mental health counseling
Benefits
- Generous vacation time, in addition to paid agency holidays and sick days
- Affordable and high-quality medical/dental/vision plans
- Tuition assistance and educational loan forgiveness
- Free continuing education opportunities
- 403(b) retirement benefits and a pension
- Flexible spending accounts for health and transportation
- 24/7 Accessible Employee Assistance Program
- Life and disability insurance
About the Company
- The Jewish Board delivers innovative, high-quality, and compassionate mental health and social services to over 45,000 New Yorkers each year.
- We are unique in serving everyone from infants and their families to children, teens, and adults.
- We are proud to employ and serve people of all religions, races, cultural backgrounds, gender expressions, and sexual orientations.
- We are committed to building diverse, equitable, and inclusive teams to help support our mission, and we strongly encourage candidates from historically marginalized backgrounds to apply to work with us.
Equal Opportunity
- We are an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
