1

Behavior Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Behavior Specialist

Kenosha, WI · On-site

$19.25 - $26.50/hr

The Behavior Specialist is trained to assess the function of behavior, develop & implement individualized plans to address maladaptive behaviors, provide training and education to patients and ...

$19.25 - $26.75/hr

The Behavior Specialist is responsible for supporting the delivery of high-quality Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) interventions within Rogers Behavioral Health treatment programs. The Behavior ...

Behavior Specialist

Kenosha, WI · On-site

$19.25 - $26.50/hr

The Behavior Specialist is trained to assess the function of behavior, develop & implement individualized plans to address maladaptive behaviors, provide training and education to patients and ...

Behavior Specialist

Wausau, WI · On-site

$21.25 - $29.25/hr

The Behavior Specialist is trained to assess the function of behavior, develop & implement individualized plans to address maladaptive behaviors, provide training and education to patients and ...

Behavior Specialist

San Diego, CA · On-site

$28.77 - $38.66/hr

The Behavior Specialist is responsible for supporting the delivery of high-quality Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) interventions within Rogers Behavioral Health treatment programs. The Behavior ...

Behavior Specialist

West Allis, WI · On-site

$19.25 - $26.50/hr

The Behavior Specialist is responsible for supporting the delivery of high-quality Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) interventions within Rogers Behavioral Health treatment programs. The Behavior ...

Behavior Specialist

San Diego, CA · On-site

$28.77 - $38.66/hr

The Behavior Specialist is responsible for supporting the delivery of high-quality Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) interventions within Rogers Behavioral Health treatment programs. The Behavior ...

BEHAVIOR SPECIALIST Full Time Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 2pm-10pm Location: Moreno Valley, CA If you're searching for a rewarding career with the ability to impact the lives of youth, look ...

Paid time off BEHAVIOR SPECIALIST Full Time Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 2pm-10pm Location: Moreno Valley, CA If you're searching for a rewarding career with the ability to impact the lives ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Behavior Specialist information

See salary details

$12

$23

$36

How much do behavior specialist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavior specialist in the United States is $23.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $26.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do behavior specialists typically collaborate with teachers and parents to support student progress?

Behavior Specialists regularly work alongside teachers and parents to create and implement individualized behavior intervention plans. They observe students in various settings, provide actionable feedback to staff, and offer training or guidance on behavioral strategies. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as Behavior Specialists often facilitate meetings to review progress and adjust interventions as needed, ensuring everyone involved is aligned and supported.

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

To thrive as a Behavior Specialist, a background in psychology, behavioral analysis, or a related field—often with a relevant certification such as BCBA—is essential. Familiarity with behavior intervention plans, data collection software, and assessment tools like the Functional Behavioral Assessment (FBA) is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and problem-solving skills help build trust and effectively address clients' needs. These skills and qualifications are important for designing and implementing effective interventions that improve clients’ behavioral outcomes.

What is the difference between Behavior Specialist vs Behavior Therapist?

AspectBehavior SpecialistBehavior Therapist
Required CredentialsOften requires a bachelor's degree in psychology, education, or related field; certifications like BCBA may be preferredTypically requires a master's degree in psychology, counseling, or related field; licensure or certification such as BCBA is common
Work EnvironmentSchools, clinics, community programs, or residential settingsPrivate practice, clinics, hospitals, or mental health facilities
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, healthcare providers, special education programsHealthcare organizations, mental health clinics, private practices

Both roles focus on behavior intervention and support but differ mainly in educational requirements and work settings. Behavior Specialists often work in educational or community settings with a focus on behavioral support, while Behavior Therapists typically have advanced degrees and work in clinical environments providing therapy for mental health and behavioral issues.

How many years does it take to become a behavior specialist?

Becoming a behavior specialist typically requires a bachelor's degree in psychology, education, or a related field, which takes about four years. Many positions also require a master's degree or certification, which can add an additional 1-2 years of study and supervised experience.

Is a behavior specialist a good career?

A behavior specialist is a professional who assesses and develops strategies to improve behavior, often working with individuals with developmental or behavioral challenges. The role typically requires strong communication skills, training in behavioral therapies, and relevant certifications, and it offers opportunities in healthcare, education, and social services sectors.

What are the duties of a behavior specialist?

A behavior specialist assesses and develops strategies to improve behavior, often working with individuals with developmental or behavioral challenges. They implement behavior intervention plans, monitor progress, and collaborate with families, teachers, or caregivers. Certification in behavior analysis and strong observational skills are typically required for this role.

What kind of degree do you need to be a behavior specialist?

A behavior specialist typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in psychology, education, social work, or a related field. Many positions prefer or require a master's degree and relevant certifications, such as Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), for advanced roles and independent practice.

What cities are hiring for Behavior Specialist jobs?

Cities with the most Behavior Specialist job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Behavior Specialist jobs?

The most popular types of Behavior Specialist jobs are:

What states have the most Behavior Specialist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Behavior Specialist jobs include:

Infographic showing various Behavior Specialist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,069 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

Behavior Specialist

W Gohman Construction

Fort Collins, CO • On-site

$26.14 - $30/hr

Full-time

Life, Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Provide one-on-one behavior support, counseling, and assessment for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

  • Develop, implement, and monitor behavior support plans and interventions.

  • Train and consult with caregivers, providers, and interdisciplinary teams to support behavioral and therapeutic goals.


Job description

Join Sample Supports as a PRN Behavior Specialist and make a difference in the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities while continuing to grow your clinical career.

This position has three levels based on education and licensure:

  • Behavior Specialist I - Bachelor's level
  • Behavior Specialist II - Master's level or clinical candidate
  • Behavior Specialist III - Independently licensed clinician or BCBA

Applicants will be considered for the level that best matches their current education, credentials, and experience.


Culture Index Requirement

To be considered for this position, you must complete the
Culture Index Survey. This is not a test, and there are no right or wrong answers. It helps us build well-balanced teams and match people with roles where they can thrive.

Position Overview

Sample Supports is seeking motivated clinicians from diverse backgrounds to join our social work-based Behavior Services Team.

Behavior Specialists work one-on-one with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, providing behavior support, counseling, assessment, consultation, and team training. Services are individualized based on each person's cognitive functioning, mental health needs, trauma history, goals, and support needs.

This is an excellent opportunity for bachelor's-level professionals, graduate students, clinical candidates, and independently licensed clinicians who want meaningful clinical experience with the flexibility of a PRN schedule.

Depending on qualifications and assigned services, Behavior Specialists may:

  • Provide individual behavior support and counseling
  • Complete clinical behavior assessments
  • Develop comprehensive behavior support plans
  • Train and consult with caregivers, providers, employees, and interdisciplinary teams
  • Monitor the effectiveness of behavioral and therapeutic interventions
  • Support individuals in their homes, in the community, at Sample Supports locations, or virtually
  • Provide crisis support and help teams safely respond to challenging behaviors
  • Complete timely, accurate, and audit-ready service documentation
  • Advocate for each person's needs, rights, safety, independence, and quality of life
  • Work collaboratively with families, guardians, providers, case managers, and other professionals
  • Maintain professional boundaries and use sound clinical judgment in complex situations
  • Meet established billable service expectations based on caseload and position level
  • Follow all service plans, behavior plans, protocols, Medicaid requirements, and applicable regulations
  • Report suspected abuse, neglect, exploitation, or mistreatment as required by law
  • Attend team meetings, consultations, and required training


Why Sample Supports?

At Sample Supports, we believe that supporting our employees helps them provide the best possible care to the people we serve. Our Behavior Specialists receive ongoing support, consultation, training, and opportunities to grow within the organization.

See what a day in the life of a Behavior Specialist looks like.

Benefits and Professional Growth

  • Free clinical supervision for qualifying licenses
  • In-house graduate internship opportunities for eligible employees
  • Paid professional development and continuing education opportunities
  • Flexible scheduling
  • Virtual caseload opportunities when appropriate
  • Private, furnished offices for site-based sessions
  • Agency fleet vehicles available for appointments and meetings
  • Mileage reimbursement
  • 401(k) with up to a 4% employer match
  • 100% employer-paid life insurance
  • Pet insurance
  • Access to the Dream Project, which helps employees work toward meaningful personal or professional goals

Learn more about the Dream Project.

Benefit eligibility may depend on employment status and hours worked.


Additional Qualifications

Applicants at all three levels must:

  • Have experience or training appropriate for the responsibilities of the assigned position level
  • Be at least 18 years old due to driving requirements
  • Maintain a valid driver's license and reliable transportation
  • Be willing and able to transport individuals receiving services when required
  • Successfully complete required background checks due to working with at-risk adults
  • Complete and maintain required certifications, including CPR, First Aid, Medication Administration, and Nonviolent Crisis Intervention
  • Communicate professionally with individuals, families, providers, employees, and interdisciplinary team members
  • Complete documentation accurately and within required timelines
  • Remain calm, professional, and effective during behavioral escalations or crisis situations


Physical and Safety Requirements

This role may involve supporting individuals with unpredictable, aggressive, or high-risk behaviors in their homes or community settings. Applicants must be able to:

  • Perform the physical requirements of the position
  • Work independently in community and home-based settings when assigned
  • Respond calmly and professionally during escalated situations
  • Implement emergency and safety procedures when necessary
  • Use trained, NVCI-approved physical intervention techniques when required to maintain safety

Sample Supports provides comprehensive training and ongoing professional development to help employees feel prepared and confident in their roles.


Paid Training Includes

  • Trauma-Informed Care
  • Positive Behavior Development
  • Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
  • CPR and First Aid
  • Nonviolent Crisis Intervention
  • Ethics in Social Work and Social Services
  • Rights of People with Disabilities
  • Documentation and regulatory requirements


Sample Supports is committed to building an inclusive team and welcomes qualified applicants from diverse professional, cultural, and personal backgrounds.