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Behavior Modification Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL

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Behavior Modification Assistant information

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$15

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$19

How much do behavior modification assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavior modification assistant in Chicago, IL is $17.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.12 and $18.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Behavior Modification Assistant, you need a background in psychology or behavioral sciences, knowledge of behavior intervention strategies, and often a relevant certification such as Registered Behavior Technician (RBT). Familiarity with data collection software, behavior tracking systems, and intervention planning tools is typically required. Patience, strong communication, and empathy are vital soft skills for building rapport and effectively supporting clients. These competencies ensure effective implementation of behavior plans and foster positive client outcomes in therapeutic or educational settings.

What are some common challenges Behavior Modification Assistants face when supporting clients, and how can they effectively address them?

Behavior Modification Assistants often encounter challenges such as client resistance to change, inconsistent responses from caregivers, and managing emotionally charged situations. To address these, it's important to build strong rapport with clients, use consistent reinforcement strategies, and maintain clear communication with the interdisciplinary team. Regular training, supervision, and open collaboration with behavior analysts and family members also help ensure effective support and positive outcomes.

What are Behavior Modification Assistants?

Behavior Modification Assistants are professionals who support individuals—often children or adults with behavioral challenges—by implementing strategies designed to improve positive behaviors and reduce problematic ones. They work under the supervision of psychologists, behavior analysts, or therapists, and may assist in schools, clinics, or residential settings. Their duties often include observing behavior, recording data, assisting with interventions, and helping to reinforce behavior plans developed by licensed professionals. They play a vital role in helping clients achieve greater independence and improved quality of life. Training and qualifications can vary, but most positions require specialized training or certification in behavioral interventions.

What is the difference between Behavior Modification Assistant vs Behavior Therapist?

AspectBehavior Modification AssistantBehavior Therapist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationMaster's degree in psychology, counseling, or related field; licensure often required
Work EnvironmentSchools, clinics, or community programs assisting with behavior plansPrivate practice, clinics, or hospitals providing therapy sessions
Employer & IndustryEducational and behavioral health organizationsHealthcare, mental health clinics, or private practices
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level roles or support positionsCompared for licensed, clinical roles involving therapy

The main difference is that Behavior Modification Assistants typically support behavior plans under supervision and may require less formal education, while Behavior Therapists are licensed professionals providing direct therapy with advanced degrees. Both roles work in behavioral health settings but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What are popular job titles related to Behavior Modification Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL? For Behavior Modification Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Behavior Modification Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Behavior Modification Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Behavior Modification Assistant jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Behavior Modification Assistant job openings:

Special Education Teaching Assistant- High School

Wheaton Warrenville Unit School District 200

Wheaton, IL • On-site

$17.23/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Hours/Day: 6.5 (full-time)
Work days/year:  178
2026-2027 School Year Hourly rate determined by CEA collective bargaining agreement.  
Starting Hourly Rate: Grade LTA,  $17.23 base hourly rate
                                                         $19.23 (if assigned to a high needs classroom)
                                                         $23.23 (if assigned to a high needs classroom and completion of a 40-hour training program for the Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) through Relias Academy). Training information can be found
                                                                     at https://reliasacademy.com/rls/store/courses/registered-behavior-technician-series-v-2/_/A-product-p560606 
Medical Insurance: Blue Cross Blue Shield HM0 80/20 cost share
Dental Insurance: Blue Cross Blue Shield 80/20 cost share
Vision Insurance: VSP 100% employee cost
Position:  Special Education Teaching Assistant
Reports to: Classroom Teacher/ Building Principal
Summary of Position: The Special Education Aide assists teachers in meeting the needs of special education students.  The primary focus is to assist and enhance the educational process of students with disabilities in both instructional and non-instructional activities.  To perform this job successfully an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and /or ability required. 
















LICENSURE:
The State of Illinois requires Special Education Teaching Assistants to have one of the following:

  •  Current Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL)
  • Current Illinois Substitute Teaching License
  • Current Illinois Educator License with Stipulations Endorsed-Paraprofessional Educator (If you do not already hold a Teaching/Substitute License):
    • The requirements are: Associate degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution; 60 semester hours of coursework from a regionally accredited institution; High school diploma, or equivalent + 480 or higher on the ETS Parapro test; High school diploma, or equivalent + 4 or higher on the ACT WorkKeys Applied Math and Workplace Documents?
  • Current Illinois Short Term Approval (STA) - Paraprofessional:
    • The requirements are: Minimum Age - 19 years old, Application in ELIS ($50 application fee), Proof of High School Graduation - copy of diploma, copy of transcript showing graduation date, GED, etc
    • For more information on how to apply to obtain the STA please reference the attached file.

If you have any question regarding obtaining a Licensure please contact: 
DuPage Regional Office of Education, Licensure Division
421 N. County Farm Road Wheaton, IL 60187
630-407-5800 cert@dupageroe.org 



Job Requirements:

  • Current State of Illinois Paraprofessional (Aide) Approval, Educator License with Stipulations, Professional Educator License, or Substitute License.
  • Have the ability to work effectively with children.
  • Have the ability to function within the framework of the school environment.
  • Effective interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Working knowledge of:

Computers and basic programs.
Child guidance principles and practices.
Behavior management and positive reinforcement.
Classroom procedures and appropriate conduct.
Basic record keeping methods.
Typical Duties:





  • Assist with providing a variety of activities for a balanced program of instruction, giving students opportunity to observe, question and investigate.
  • Reinforce information and instructions following a lesson.
  • Works with students individually or in small groups in academic studies, basic life skills and other assigned instruction.
  • Implements behavior modification plans and procedures designed for individual students when necessary.
  • Maintain confidentiality regarding students.
  • Maintain positive relationships with all students, school staff and parents.
  • Observes and records student's progress.
  • Assists individual or groups of students during activities including recess, lunch and getting children safely on and off bus.
  • Assist with hygiene and toileting activities which might include transferring and lifting students.  Sanitize classroom and equipment using approved materials.

 
Physical Ability:  While performing the duties of this job the employee is regularly required to sit, stand, walk, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl and run.  The employee will experience occasional lifting and or moving up to 100 lbs, such as lifting a child from the floor.  The employee must be able to push/pull items up to 80 lbs., such as children in wheelchairs.
Work Environment:  Hazards- Potential exposure to communicable disease and contact with blood and other body fluids; potential exposure to physical injury from aggressive behavior.