1

Behavior Assistant Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Behavior Support Assistant

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$19.25 - $21.30/hr

The behavior support assistant will implement behavioral strategies to ensure students with significant social, emotional, and/or behavioral needs are provided with research-based behavioral ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Behavior Assistant information

See Illinois salary details

$10

$20

$31

How much do behavior assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavior assistant in Illinois is $20.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.30 and $22.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Behavior Assistant, you need a background in psychology or education, knowledge of behavioral intervention techniques, and often a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) certification. Familiarity with data collection systems, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) tools, and behavior tracking software is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and teamwork skills help in building rapport with clients and collaborating effectively with therapists and families. These competencies are crucial for delivering effective interventions and supporting positive behavioral change in clients.

What are Behavior Assistants?

Behavior Assistants are professionals who support individuals with behavioral challenges, often in educational, clinical, or home settings. They work under the supervision of Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) or other qualified professionals to implement behavior intervention plans. Their responsibilities include observing clients, collecting data, reinforcing positive behaviors, and helping teach new skills. Behavior Assistants play a key role in supporting individuals with autism or other developmental disorders to improve their social, academic, and daily living skills.

What is the role of a behavioral assistant?

A behavioral assistant supports individuals with behavioral or developmental challenges by implementing behavior plans, providing positive reinforcement, and assisting with daily activities. They often work under the supervision of a behavior analyst or therapist and may use tools like data collection to track progress.

Is being a BHT a stressful job?

Being a Behavior Assistant (BHT) can be stressful due to the demanding nature of working with individuals with behavioral challenges and the need for patience and consistency. The job often requires strong communication skills, emotional resilience, and the ability to handle unpredictable situations, which can contribute to stress levels.

How does a Behavior Assistant typically collaborate with Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) and other team members?

Behavior Assistants work closely under the supervision of Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) to implement individualized behavior intervention plans. They regularly communicate progress, challenges, and observations to the BCBA, who adjusts strategies as needed. Behavior Assistants also coordinate with teachers, therapists, and family members to ensure consistency in behavior management across different settings. This collaborative environment fosters professional development and allows Behavior Assistants to learn from experienced team members while supporting the client's growth.

What do I need to become a behavioral assistant?

To become a behavioral assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some roles require post-secondary education or certification in behavior analysis or related fields. Relevant skills include patience, communication, and the ability to implement behavior plans under supervision. Certification such as Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) may be required or preferred depending on the employer.

What is the difference between Behavior Assistant vs Behavior Technician?

AspectBehavior AssistantBehavior Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationHigh school diploma; often requires certification (e.g., RBT)
Work EnvironmentSchools, clinics, or home settings working under supervisionClinics, schools, or residential settings with direct client interaction
Employer & Industry UsageEducational and healthcare organizations, ABA therapy providersABA therapy providers, healthcare facilities, educational programs
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles assisting behavior analystsSeeking detailed job responsibilities and certification info

The main difference between a Behavior Assistant and a Behavior Technician lies in their certification requirements and scope of practice. Behavior Technicians typically hold certification such as RBT and have more direct responsibilities in implementing behavior plans. Behavior Assistants often work under supervision with less formal certification, focusing on supporting Behavior Technicians and behavior analysts in various settings.

What is the highest salary for a behavior technician?

The highest salaries for behavior technicians can reach around $50,000 to $60,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Advanced roles or those with specialized skills may offer higher compensation, especially in healthcare or educational settings.
What are the most commonly searched types of Behavior jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Behavior jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Behavior Assistant jobs in Illinois? For Behavior Assistant jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Behavior Assistant jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Behavior Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Behavior Assistant job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,910 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

Behavior Support Assistant

DuPage County ROE

Wheaton, IL • On-site

$19.25 - $21.30/hr

Other

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Description:  The behavior support assistant will implement behavioral strategies to ensure students with significant social, emotional, and/or behavioral needs are provided with research-based behavioral strategies, including principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). This is a full time position (FTE 1.0).  
Job Summary:

  1. Adapts classroom activities, assignments and/or materials, under the direction of the supervising teacher, for the purpose of supporting and reinforcing classroom objectives.
  2. Communicates with supervising instructional staff, and/or professional support personnel for the purpose of assisting in evaluating progress and/or implementing IEP objectives.
  3. Monitors students during assigned periods within a variety of school environments (e.g. rest rooms, playgrounds, hallways, bus loading zones, cafeteria, parking lots, etc.) for the purpose of maintaining a safe and positive learning environment.
  4. Provides under the supervision of assigned administrator or licensed staff, instruction to students in a variety of individual and group activities (e.g. academic subjects, social skills, daily living skills, etc.) for the purpose of reinforcing instructional objectives; implementing IEP plans; and ensuring students success in school.
  5. Assist classroom teachers to support students in accessing the school setting in their Least Restrictive Environment (LRE)
  6. Implement academic, social language, and behavioral programming, using principles of ABA and humanistic behavior
  7. Implement positive, humanistic behavioral strategies
  8. Create materials to provide behavioral supports that align with academic, social language, and behavioral programming under the direction of the classroom teacher and/or BCBA
  9. Assist school staff in collecting behavioral data and delivering behavior programming using the principles of ABA and humanistic behavior
  10. Support students in the school setting (i.e. during transitions between classes, beginning and end of the day, at recess, lunch, and specials) with optimizing social interactions and social pragmatic instruction in real life situations, using principles of ABA and humanistic behavior
  11. Assist in managing behavioral crisis situations
  12. Support student's adaptive living skills such as toileting, feeding, dressing, etc.

The statements contained herein reflect general details as necessary to describe the principal functions of this job, the level of knowledge and skill typically required and the scope of responsibility, but should not be considered an all-inclusive listing of work requirements.  Individuals may perform other duties as assigned, including work in other functional areas to cover absences or relief, to equalize peak work periods or otherwise to balance the workload.

Physical Abilities:

  1. Employee must be able to use physical ability to lift students and perform other manipulations to diaper, toilet, feed, dress and assist students with other daily living skills.
  2. Employee is regularly required to see, speak and hear; frequently required to sit, stand, walk, use hands and fingers to handle or feel, reach with hands and arms, climb, climb stairs or balance, bend, twist, stoop,
  3. kneel, crouch or crawl.
  4. Employee must be able to push, pull, lift or carry up to 50 lbs.

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION/QUALIFICATIONS PROFILE:
Valid Illinois Educator License qualifying for a Paraprofessional required
Certification as a Registered Behavior Technician. IPSD 204 staff are eligible to complete the District paid training to obtain the certificate. Certification must be in place before the position begins.
Maintain certification through Safety Care
Minimum of one (1) year of experience working with individuals with disabilities in an educational setting, required. Two (2) to three (3) years, preferred
Minimum of one (1) year of experience in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), preferred.
 





EQUIPMENT:
1. Use general office equipment. 
2. Use personal computers.
3. May need to operate adaptive equipment
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
Work in standard school building environment.
Work outdoors during outdoor student activities.
Travel Requirements:  Travel between schools may be required.
Supervisor:  Building Principal and/or designee
Work Calendar:  5200
FLSA Status:  Non-Exempt
Job Category: Classified
Rate of pay:  $19.25-$21.30/hour
Benefits: Benefits as described in IPCA contract can be found here: IPCA Contract 2026-30
Selection Procedure:  Qualified candidates will be contacted by the appropriate building administrator.


















DuPage County ROE logo

About DuPage County ROE

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

DuPage County Regional Office of Education (ROE), located in Wheaton, Illinois, operates within the educational sector, administering a wide array of services to support both public and private schools. This includes overseeing teacher professional development, curriculum planning, and regional safe schools. This organization was established with the core aim of assuring that education in Illinois aligns with state education laws and is of the highest standard. Its mission is to provide governance, services, and leadership needed to prepare students for success, driving regional educational initiatives that foster safe, efficient, and effective learning environments.

Industry

Education

Headquarters location

Wheaton, IL, US

Social media