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Behavior Specialist Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

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Behavior Specialist information

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$12

$24

$37

How much do behavior specialist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavior specialist in Reston, VA is $24.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.76 and $27.26 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.
More about Behavior Specialist jobs

What job categories do people searching Behavior Specialist jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Behavior Specialist jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Behavior Specialist jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Behavior Specialist job openings:

Behavior Specialist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Behavior Specialist job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,049 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

T26/27 BEHAVIOR SPECIALIST (SYPHAX)

Arlington, VA • On-site

Arlington Public Schools
See more jobs at Arlington Public Schoolsexternal

$22.75 - $30.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description


This position is a 1.0 FTE located within the Office of Special Education.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Conduct observations of students for development of behavior management and behavior modification plans.
Develop and implement individual and group behavior management plans for students in grades pre-K through 12
Model strategies and behavior systems for classroom teachers.
Provide in-service training for teachers and staff in working with children and adolescents on behavior management.
Consult with teachers, staff and families to develop behavior intervention plans.
Facilitate development of functional behavior analysis and resulting behavior plan.
Participate in the design, implementation and evaluation of crisis management plans.
Participate as a member of a team with school-based and central office-based colleagues.
EXPERIENCE:
The person in this position reports to the Director of Special Education. The Behavior
Specialist will work closely with school based staff, special education coordinators and student services personnel
in the planning and delivery of programs and services for children with and without disabilities. The responsibilities
will include working the special education and general education settings.
Demonstrated success in development, implementation and evaluation of individual and group behavior
management and modification plans.
Experience as a team member in development, implementation and evaluation of behavior management plans.
Experience working with children with various disabilities and mental health needs (such as autism, ADHD, and
anxiety, etc.) in k-12 school settings.
Experience working as part of a multi-disciplinary team.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Master's degree in Special Education or Psychology.
Eligibility for a Postgraduate Certificate, with endorsement in one or more disability areas covered under the
Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act, 2004 or in related field.
Training in crisis prevention and intervention techniques.
Familiarity with Applied Behavior Analysis.
Familiarity with Trauma-Informed Practices.
Valid Special Education licensure and/or certification as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)
Dual endorsement in English as a Second Language and/or Special Education, or in any other content area, is
preferred but not required.
SALARY: Salary will be based on the FY2026-27 salary schedule
Arlington Public Schools is an Equal Opportunity Employer
It is the policy of the Arlington School Board, as stated in Policy G-2.30, Employee Relations - Equal Employment
Opportunity - that "Employment opportunities shall not be restricted, abridged or otherwise adversely affected on the basis
of race, national origin, creed, color, religion, gender, age, economic status, sexual orientation, national origin, marital
status, genetic information, gender identity or expression, and/or disability

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