1

Behavior Modification Assistant Jobs in Kennewick, WA

Behavior Modification Assistant information

See Kennewick, WA salary details

$15

$16

$18

How much do behavior modification assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavior modification assistant in Kennewick, WA is $16.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.20 and $17.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 is a behavior modification assistant?

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

$19 - $21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Join our team in making a meaningful difference in the lives of young children and their families. The Behavior Technician supports children ages 2-6 in a clinic-based early learning environment by promoting positive behaviors, social-emotional development, communication, and independence. Working closely with families, this role implements individualized behavior support strategies and provides direct support to children with varying developmental and behavioral needs. The Behavior Technician helps create a safe, structured, and nurturing setting that encourages learning and growth while utilizing compassionate, trauma-informed, and child-centered practices.
Responsibilities:
Implement Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) procedures to teach skills and address disruptive behavior under the direction of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).
  • Most direct work with clients is spent one-on-one, implementing an ABA treatment plan in a therapeutic classroom. This can include working with children exhibiting tantrum behaviors, aggression, and self-injurious behaviors.
  • Provide ABA services in a natural environment setting as required to successfully transition child to other services or assist in generalization of skills
  • Establish and maintain a safe and nurturing environment for children and families.
  • Work with children with ASD in the therapeutic environment using ABA techniques such as behavior modification (including extinction procedures), individual skill acquisition, and other designated treatment approaches.
  • Participate in program activities, including lesson plans, and preparing appropriate activities (art, snack, etc). Assist with cleanliness and safety of the clinic setting and outdoor play areas.
  • Collect and record data on all current targets and treatment goals
  • Lead therapeutic activities under the supervision and direction of the BCBA
  • Participate in team discussion regarding current clients' programs and their implementation

Follow all policies and procedures for the ABA program
  • Observe confidentiality and HIPAA standards in all activities
  • Report suspected incidents of child abuse or neglect to the BCBA and follow mandated reporting protocols.
  • Follow all protocols set up for the ABA program and child interventions and treatment.

Perform other duties as assigned
Job Requirements:
The following requirements are those that are normally required for this position. Any disabled applicant or incumbent who does not meet one or more of the requirements, but who can perform the essential function of the job (with or without reasonable accommodations) shall be deemed to meet these requirements.
Physical Requirements:
This position normally requires the physical demands of standing, walking, bending, or performing other work requiring low physical exertion, talking and hearing and adequate vision on a regular basis to perform job requirements. These physical demands are required up to 80% of the time. In addition, approximately 20% of the time may include physically assisting a child exhibiting behavior problems to ensure the safety of other children and staff. There may be times that sitting on the floor or in small chairs will be required. The position also requires ability to drive with adequate vision.
Non-physical Requirements:
Education
  • High school diploma or GED required.

Experience
  • 2 years of experience working with preschool children with behavioral and developmental concerns including Autism Spectrum Disorder preferred

Special Skills
  • Bilingual/Bicultural (Spanish / English) preferred
  • Possess strong classroom and behavioral management skills with children with ASD
  • Ability to work successfully in a multi-disciplinary team
  • Computer and word processing competence
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills

Licensure, Registration, Certification
  • Must have or be willing to obtain a Certified Behavior Technician license with the Washington State Department of Health
  • First Aid/CPR certification preferred

Employment is conditional upon:
  • Clearance if criminal background check and finger printing check when required

Work Schedule: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, & Friday 8am-5pm and Tuesdays 8am-12pm (36 hour week)
Wage Range: $19.00 - $21.00 per hour depending on experience
Benefits:
  • 13 paid holidays, 12 days of vacation, 12 days of sick leave per year
  • Health insurance including medical & prescription coverage, with optional dental and vision insurance plans. Majority of premiums paid by Catholic Charities
  • Retirement 403(b) Plan: employee contributions commence upon employment; Catholic Charities contributes 2% of monthly income and matches up to 4% of employee contributions following 6 months of employment
  • Basic Life Insurance paid 100% by Catholic Charities
  • Flexible Spending Account eligibility following 6 months of employment
  • Education Assistance Program reimbursing up to $5,250 per year for approved continuing education after 6 months of employment
  • Additional voluntary insurances including supplemental life, accidental death & dismemberment (AD&D), critical illness, long term disability, accident, and ID theft
  • Employee Assistance Program includes 3 counseling sessions per year, legal consultations, financial coaching, and other wellbeing tools
  • Annual longevity awards begin at 5 years of employment

It is the practice of Catholic Charities to ensure equal employment opportunity without discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, citizenship status, marital status, creed, genetic predisposition or carrier status, sexual orientation, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Applicants from underrepresented backgrounds are encouraged to apply. We gladly offer reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities to support participation in the hiring process and employment.