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Behavior Aide Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

School Behavior Aide

San Rafael, CA · On-site

$15.50 - $19.75/hr

The Behavior Technician works to facilitate educational and behavioral services with children and adults with special needs and collaborates with school professionals and other behavioral specialists ...

School Behavior Aide

Alhambra, CA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

The Behavior Technician works to facilitate educational and behavioral services with children and adults with special needs and collaborates with school professionals and other behavioral specialists ...

School Behavior Aide

Duarte, CA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

The Behavior Technician works to facilitate educational and behavioral services with children and adults with special needs and collaborates with school professionals and other behavioral specialists ...

Showing results 41-60

Behavior Aide information

See California salary details

$9

$14

$19

How much do behavior aide jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavior aide in California is $14.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.71 and $15.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a behavior aide?

Behavior aides are professionals who support individuals, often children or students, with behavioral challenges or special needs. They work under the guidance of teachers, therapists, or behavior analysts to implement behavior intervention plans, promote positive behaviors, and help clients develop social and coping skills. Behavior aides may work in schools, clinics, or community settings, and play a key role in helping individuals succeed academically and socially. Their responsibilities include observing behaviors, recording data, and providing one-on-one assistance as needed.

What are some common challenges behavior aides face when supporting students with behavioral needs in school settings?

Behavior Aides often encounter challenges such as managing disruptive behaviors while maintaining a positive learning environment, adapting strategies to meet individual student needs, and balancing support between multiple students or classrooms. Effective communication with teachers, special education staff, and families is crucial for consistent behavior management. Flexibility, patience, and ongoing professional development help Behavior Aides address these challenges and make a meaningful impact on student progress.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a behavior aide, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Behavior Aide, you generally need knowledge of behavioral intervention techniques, a high school diploma or higher, and experience working with individuals with behavioral challenges. Familiarity with data collection software, behavior tracking tools, and sometimes certification in crisis intervention or Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is often required. Patience, strong communication skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills for building trust and effectively supporting clients. These skills ensure that Behavior Aides can implement behavior plans effectively, maintain safety, and contribute positively to clients' development.

What is the difference between Behavior Aide vs Behavior Technician?

AspectBehavior AideBehavior Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some certifications preferredHigh school diploma; often requires certification like RBT (Registered Behavior Technician)
Work EnvironmentSchools, clinics, or home settings assisting with behavioral supportSimilar settings, working directly with individuals with developmental or behavioral challenges
Employer & Industry UsageEducational and healthcare organizationsBehavioral health agencies, clinics, and schools
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level roles in behavioral supportMore specialized with certification requirements

Behavior Aides and Behavior Technicians both work in behavioral support environments, assisting individuals with developmental or behavioral needs. The main difference lies in certification requirements, with Behavior Technicians typically needing certification like RBT. Both roles are vital in educational and healthcare settings, but Behavior Technicians often have more specialized training and responsibilities.

How to become a behavior aide?

To become a behavior aide, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may pursue relevant certifications such as CPR or behavior intervention training. Gaining experience working with individuals with behavioral challenges and understanding behavioral strategies can also be beneficial; some positions require a background in psychology, education, or related fields.

What are the most commonly searched types of Behavior jobs in California?

The most popular types of Behavior jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Behavior Aide jobs?

Cities in California with the most Behavior Aide job openings:

Infographic showing various Behavior Aide job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,608 per year, or $14.2 per hour.

Instructional Aides • Behavioral Support Aides Wanted - Santa Maria Schools

Blue Horizons

Santa Maria, CA

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Instructional Aide / Behavior Aide – Join a Team That Makes a Difference

$19.50 – $21.50 per hour (Based on position, experience, qualifications, certifications, and assignment.)

Part-Time & Full-Time | School-Year Positions | Opportunities Throughout California

Make a Difference Every Day

At Blue Horizons, we believe the best student support begins with the best employee support. We are an Employee-First Company

We're looking for compassionate, dependable individuals who want more than just a job. Working with students that have special needs is a highly rewarding experience but it can also be challenging.

If you enjoy helping students succeed and want to work for a company that genuinely values you - a we'd love to meet you.

Whether you have years of experience or are looking to begin a rewarding career in education, Blue Horizons provides the support, training, and encouragement to help you succeed.

Why Employees Love Working at Blue Horizons

At Blue Horizons, you are joining a proud team and you are never just another employee.

We are proud to be known for our caring culture, responsive Human Resources team, supportive supervisors, and commitment to helping every employee succeed.

We offer:

* Competitive pay based on experience and qualifications
* Medical, Dental & Vision benefits for eligible employees
* Paid Sick Leave
* Ongoing training and professional development
* Friendly, responsive Human Resources
* Caring supervisors who are available when you need them
* Flexible scheduling whenever possible
* School assignments close to home
* A respectful, positive, and professional work environment
* Opportunities for advancement within the company

Grow Your Career With Us

We believe in promoting from within.

Employees who demonstrate outstanding performance, professionalism, reliability, and a passion for helping students may have the opportunity to receive additional training and become Behavior Technicians (BTs).

Behavior Technicians work with students requiring more specialized behavioral support and may qualify for higher-paying assignments based on certifications, district requirements, and available positions.

If you're looking for a company where your hard work can lead to new opportunities, Blue Horizons is the place to grow.

What You'll Do

As an Instructional Aide or Behavior Aide, you'll work alongside teachers and school staff to help students achieve their academic, behavioral, social, and communication goals.

Responsibilities may include:

* Providing one-on-one or small-group support
* Assisting students with autism, ADHD, developmental disabilities, and other learning or behavioral needs
* Encouraging positive behavior and classroom participation
* Supporting teachers with classroom activities
* Assisting with Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) under school staff direction
* Helping create a safe, respectful, and encouraging learning environment
* Documenting observations and communicating with school staff as needed

Every student is unique, and every day offers an opportunity to make a meaningful difference.

We're Looking For People Who Are

* Compassionate
* Patient
* Reliable
* Professional
* Positive
* Team-oriented
* Passionate about helping children succeed

Experience in education, childcare, ABA, behavioral support, psychology, healthcare, social work, or special education is a plus, but we also welcome motivated individuals who are eager to learn and make a difference.

Minimum Qualifications

* High school diploma or equivalent
* Ability to work effectively with students and school staff
* Reliable transportation
* Strong communication skills
* Ability to maintain professionalism and confidentiality

Additional education, college coursework, bilingual skills, CPR/First Aid certification, CPI training, or experience supporting students with special needs are highly valued.

About Blue Horizons

Blue Horizons partners with school districts throughout California to provide exceptional Instructional Aides, Behavior Aides, and Behavior Technicians who help students reach their full potential.

Our mission is simple:

Support our schools.
Support our students.
They are our future!

When our professional employees thrive, our students thrive.

Apply Today

If you're looking for meaningful work with a company that appreciates your dedication, supports your growth, and believes every employee deserves the highest levels of respect, we'd love to hear from you.

Join Blue Horizons and become part of a team that's making a positive difference-one student at a time.

* A dedicated and caring Human Resources team.
* Highly supportive and accommodating management - always available when you need assistance.
* Professional onboarding, training, and ongoing support.
* Advancement opportunities for high-performing employees, including the opportunity to train and certify as a Behavior Technician and qualify for higher-paying assignments.