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Behavior Scientist Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

ExcelPrep Schools

Behavior Specialist

Champaign, IL · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

Behavior science research foundations * Occupational Therapy as a prioritized therapy alongside ABA for sensory-motor development Our overarching goal is to provide a nurturing, academically focused ...

ExcelPrep Schools

Behavior Specialist

Champaign, IL · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

Behavior science research foundations * Occupational Therapy as a prioritized therapy alongside ABA for sensory-motor development Our overarching goal is to provide a nurturing, academically focused ...

Excel Prep

Behavior Specialist

Champaign, IL · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

Behavior science research foundations * Occupational Therapy as a prioritized therapy alongside ABA for sensory-motor development Our overarching goal is to provide a nurturing, academically focused ...

Rosalind Franklin

Research Data Scientist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Research Data Scientist Part-Time Staff RFUMS Main Campus, North Chicago, IL, US 21 days ago ... We are looking for candidates who can establish a strong fiber photometry-behavior analysis ...

CONAGRA

Behavioral Science Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$109K - $159K/yr

Reporting to a Director of Behavioral Science, you will play an important part in helping the Behavioral Science team influence decisions with rigorous insights that drive results. You will support ...

Loyola University Chicago

Staff Scientist

Chicago, IL · On-site

Following these studies of Human Brain, we are testing the effects of stress on Mouse behavior ... Sciences campus of Loyola University Chicago, located close to the downtown area of Chicago, with ...

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Behavior Scientist information

See Illinois salary details

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$37

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How much do behavior scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavior scientist in Illinois is $37.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.84 and $41.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a behavior scientist?

Behavior scientists are professionals who study how people and animals behave, often focusing on the underlying psychological, social, and environmental factors that influence actions and decisions. They use research methods and data analysis to understand patterns in behavior and develop strategies to encourage positive changes. Behavior scientists work in various settings such as healthcare, education, business, and government, contributing to programs and policies that improve individual and societal outcomes.

What are some of the main challenges behavior scientists face when working with multidisciplinary teams?

Behavior Scientists often collaborate with professionals from fields like data science, design, public health, and engineering. A common challenge is effectively communicating complex behavioral theories and research findings to team members with different backgrounds. Bridging these knowledge gaps requires strong interpersonal skills and the ability to translate scientific concepts into actionable strategies. Additionally, aligning behavioral interventions with broader project goals and timelines can be demanding but also offers valuable opportunities for professional growth and impact.

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

To thrive as a Behavior Scientist, you need a solid background in psychology, behavioral analysis, and research methods, usually supported by an advanced degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R), data collection platforms, and IRB protocols is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, communication, and collaboration skills distinguish top performers in this role. These skills enable accurate study design, insightful data interpretation, and effective application of findings to influence behavior and inform policy.

What can you do with a behavior scientist degree?

A behavior scientist degree prepares individuals to analyze and modify human behavior through research, data analysis, and intervention strategies. Career options include roles in clinical settings, research institutions, healthcare organizations, and government agencies, often requiring skills in data collection, statistical tools, and behavioral theories.

What jobs do behavior scientists do?

Behavior scientists study human and animal behavior to understand and modify actions through research, data analysis, and intervention strategies. They often work in clinical, educational, or organizational settings, applying behavioral theories and tools like behavior assessments and reinforcement techniques. Their work may involve designing programs, conducting experiments, and collaborating with other professionals to improve outcomes.

What qualifications do you need to be a behavior scientist?

To become a behavior scientist, a bachelor's degree in psychology, behavioral science, or a related field is typically required, with many roles requiring a master's or doctoral degree. Relevant skills include data analysis, research methodology, and knowledge of behavioral theories, often complemented by experience with statistical software and certifications in behavioral analysis or research methods.

What are popular job titles related to Behavior Scientist jobs in Illinois?

For Behavior Scientist jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Behavior Scientist jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Behavior Scientist jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Behavior Scientist jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Behavior Scientist job openings:

Behavior Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Behavior Scientist job openings in Illinois 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 $78,583 per year, or $37.8 per hour.

Behavior Specialist

ExcelPrep Schools

Champaign, IL • On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Behavior Specialist
Location: Champaign, IL
Organization: ExcelPrep Schools
Mission-driven note ExcelPrep is a mission-driven private program serving neurodiverse children through structured, research-based instruction. Our mission is simple: prioritize the academic and social success of neurodiverse learners. We deliver high-quality academic and therapeutic programming that supports meaningful learning outcomes.
Across ExcelPrep, we center:
  • Direct Instruction and instructional design

  • Precision Teaching and data-based decision making

  • Behavior science research foundations

  • Occupational Therapy as a prioritized therapy alongside ABA for sensory-motor development

Our overarching goal is to provide a nurturing, academically focused learning environment where neurodiverse students develop strong academic foundations, cognitive-linguistic skills, and the confidence to succeed in school and beyond.
About ExcelPrep
  • Programs for ages 3-13:
    • PreK-8 Academic Program: Direct Instruction and Precision Teaching for core academics (reading, writing, math) in a structured, data-driven environment.
    • Clinical ABA Program (Ages 3-13): Cognition-linguistically based ABA focusing on language, reasoning, executive functioning, social competence, and independence.

  • We emphasize:
    • Direct Instruction and instructional design
    • Precision Teaching and data-based decision making
    • Behavior science research foundations
    • Occupational Therapy as a prioritized therapy alongside ABA for sensory-motor development

Position: Behavior Specialist
Type
  • Full-time

  • On-site in Champaign, IL

  • Schedule: Typically Monday-Friday, during school hours; some after-hours collaboration meetings as needed

Reports To
  • Clinical Programs Director / Senior Behavior Team Lead

Position Summary
The Behavior Specialist partners with our Clinical ABA team, teachers, OT, families, and school staff to design, implement, monitor, and optimize behavior-analytic programs for neurodiverse learners. This role centers data-based decision making, functional assessment, and the development of effective interventions aligned with ExcelPrep's mission and instructional framework.
Key Responsibilities
  • Conduct Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBA) and develop Behavior Intervention Plans (BIP) tailored to individual learners.

  • Implement, monitor, and adjust ABA-based interventions (language, reasoning, executive functioning, social skills, independence) within both ABA and academic programming.

  • Lead data collection and analysis (Precision Teaching methods, probe data, mastery criteria, trend lines) to inform progress and instructional decisions.

  • Collaborate with Occupational Therapy, Speech-Language Pathology, and classroom teachers to integrate sensory-motor supports and cognitive-linguistic strategies.

  • Model and coach instructional strategies for direct instruction and precision teaching to staff and paraprofessionals.

  • Provide direct on-site therapy sessions and supervise/coach RBTs or BCaBAs as needed.

  • Communicate progress and concerns to families; conduct regular progress updates, parent trainings, and team meetings.

  • Ensure fidelity to program design, privacy, and ethical standards in accordance with state and national regulations.

  • Contribute to program development by staying current with research in behavior science and implementing evidence-based practices.

  • Participate in ongoing professional development and supervision to support high-quality service delivery.

Qualifications
Required
  • BCBA or BCaBA certification, or eligibility to sit for certification; or equivalent, demonstrable ABA expertise with plan to obtain BCBA/BCaBA credential.

  • Minimum 2-3 years of relevant clinical experience supporting neurodiverse children (ages 3-13) in educational or clinical settings.

  • Strong background in ABA, data collection and analysis, and behavior intervention planning.

  • Experience with Direct Instruction and Precision Teaching frameworks preferred.

  • Excellent collaboration and communication skills; ability to work effectively with families, teachers, and multidisciplinary teams.

  • Knowledge of sensory processing, occupational therapy principles, and their application to behavior and learning.

  • Bilingual abilities (e.g., Spanish or other languages) are a plus and welcomed.

Preferred
  • Experience with functional language development, executive functioning strategies, social skills training, and independence-building programs.

  • Demonstrated ability to translate data into actionable instructional changes.

  • Experience working in private school settings or clinical ABA programs for neurodiverse learners.

Work Environment & Benefits
  • Dynamic, mission-driven team serving neurodiverse children in a private school/clinical ABA context.

  • Collaborative, data-informed culture with a strong emphasis on professional development.

  • Benefits may include health/dental/vision, retirement planning, and professional development allowances (details provided upon offer).

Compensation
  • Competitive salary commensurate with experience and credentials.

  • Additional opportunities for bonus incentives based on program outcomes and contributions.

Note: The exact salary range will be discussed during the interview process and reflected in the formal offer.
How to Apply
  • Submit your resume, cover letter, and a brief statement of your approach to behavior support for neurodiverse learners.

  • Include certification details (BCBA/BCaBA or eligibility), relevant transcripts, and contact information for references.

  • Email: careers@excelprep.org

  • Or apply via our careers portal on the ExcelPrep website.

Equal Opportunity Employer
ExcelPrep is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Apply