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Behavior Modification Specialist Jobs in Minnesota

Injury Prevention Specialist Location: 2104 Northdale Blvd Suite 100 Coon Rapids MN 55433 (on-site ... Job coaching and behavior modification, both 1:1 and in group settings * Providing education and ...

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Behavior Modification Specialist information

See Minnesota salary details

$11

$23

$35

How much do behavior modification specialist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavior modification specialist in Minnesota is $23.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.61 and $25.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectBehavior Modification SpecialistBehavior Therapist
CredentialsCertification in behavior analysis or related fields, sometimes BCBA or similarMaster's degree in psychology, counseling, or related fields; may hold BCBA or BCaBA
Work EnvironmentSchools, clinics, residential programs, or community settingsTherapy clinics, schools, hospitals, or private practice
Employer & IndustryBehavioral health agencies, educational institutions, healthcare providersHealthcare facilities, mental health clinics, private practices

Both roles focus on improving behavior, often working with individuals with developmental or behavioral challenges. The main difference lies in their specific approaches and settings. Behavior Modification Specialists typically implement structured behavior plans based on applied behavior analysis, while Behavior Therapists may provide broader therapeutic interventions. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or service provider.

How does a Behavior Modification Specialist typically collaborate with other professionals in a clinical or educational setting?

Behavior Modification Specialists often work closely with multidisciplinary teams, including psychologists, teachers, social workers, and families. Collaboration usually involves sharing observations, contributing to the development and implementation of individualized behavior intervention plans, and regularly communicating progress and challenges. This teamwork ensures that interventions are consistent and effective across different environments, such as home, school, or clinical settings. Regular team meetings and open communication are key to achieving positive outcomes for clients.

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

To thrive as a Behavior Modification Specialist, you need a background in psychology, behavioral analysis, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree and certifications like BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst). Familiarity with behavior tracking software, data analysis tools, and intervention planning systems is commonly required. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and effective communication are essential for building trust and collaborating with clients, families, and interdisciplinary teams. These skills ensure the effective assessment, design, and implementation of behavior intervention plans that lead to positive client outcomes.

What are Behavior Modification Specialists?

Behavior Modification Specialists are professionals who assess, design, and implement programs to help individuals change problematic behaviors and develop healthier habits. They often work with clients who have behavioral, emotional, or developmental challenges, using evidence-based techniques like positive reinforcement, behavior analysis, and intervention strategies. Their goal is to improve the client's quality of life by teaching new skills, reducing negative behaviors, and supporting long-term positive change. Behavior Modification Specialists may work in schools, healthcare settings, mental health facilities, or private practice.
Infographic showing various Behavior Modification Specialist job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 25% As Needed, 37% Full Time, and 38% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,059 per year, or $23.1 per hour.
Shelter Behavior Specialist

Shelter Behavior Specialist

Animal Humane Society

Golden Valley, MN

$23 - $25/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Animal Humane Society rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

402nd of 759 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

Description
The Shelter Behavior Specialist is responsible for providing behavioral support and implementing behavior modification programs. This position’s key responsibilities include completing behavior exams, placing animals as appropriate in behavior modification programs, and recommending placements and outcomes.

Requirements
Behavior Modification:
  • Complete behavior examinations for animals that need behavior support to identify behaviors for intervention.
  • Place animals as appropriate in behavior modification programs and provide recommended placements and outcomes.
  • Implement behavior modification programs for the selected behavioral concerns to enrich the animal’s environment, prevent problem behaviors, and improve their adoptability.
  • Respond to questions and concerns about shelter animal behavior, placement and outcomes.
  • Escalate complex cases and questions to higher level support.
  • Maintain detailed records of animal behavior and progress.
  • Work closely with veterinarians to address behavioral issues that may have a medical basis, ensuring a comprehensive approach to animal welfare.
  • Ensure the safety and welfare of animals, adhering to ethical standards and promoting humane treatment at all times.

Support:
  • Assist in program evaluation, including data collection, entry, and analysis as needed.
  • Assist with research initiatives to improve the understanding of animal behavior.
  • Assist with on-going training for volunteers as well as other shelter staff.
  • Serve as a member of the Critical Response Team; deploy on Humane Investigations cases as needed state-wide.

Communication and Culture:
  • Communicate in a positive and professional manner with customers, other employees, and volunteers.
  • Promote a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion to make AHS a welcoming environment for all.

Technology:
  • Accurately update animal records in PetPoint.
  • Monitor department inbox and respond to inquiries in a timely manner.
  • Clock in and out of shifts using Paycor.
  • Monitor AHS email and other messaging software.
Other duties as assigned.

Schedule and Attendance:
  • Regular, predictable attendance, punctuality, and availability to work during operational hours.
  • Attend and participate in regular team meetings, all staff meetings, and one-on-one meetings with direct leader.
  • Must be able to travel to a different work site based on department needs.
  • Must be able to travel to Humane Investigation sites state-wide as needed.
  • May be required to attend occasional off-site meetings and events.

Work Environment:
  • Environment can be dirty, wet, warm, and humid.
  • Exposure to zoonotic diseases and pests such as fleas and ticks.
  • Possibility of being bitten or scratched.
  • Exposure to unpleasant odors, chemicals, and noises, including barking.
  • May be exposed to extreme weather conditions including but not limited to cold, heat, rain, and snow when outside.
Qualifications:
Experience:
2+ years of experience in behavior modification required.
Experience with low-stress and advanced animal handling techniques, including LIMA, Fear-Free, capture and restraint preferred.

Skills:
Strong communication, interpersonal, and conflict-resolution skills
Ability to accurately assess and document animal behavior across different species.
Proficient with computers, specifically a working knowledge of Microsoft products.

Physical Demands:
Must be able to lift, carry, and handle animals and other items up to 50 lbs. unassisted. For animals and other items over 50 lbs., assistance from another team member is required.
Prolonged periods of sitting, standing and walking.

Emotional Demands:
Must be comfortable with the emotional aspect of work in an animal shelter environment, including the use of humane euthanasia.
Must be able to work effectively in situations where animals are gravely ill or injured, neglected, abused, aggressive, or in distress.

Transportation:
Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required.

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