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Behavior Support Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

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Direct Support Professional

Leesburg, VA

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Experience implementing behavior support plans is a plus. * Positive attitude, patience, and a heart for serving others. Responsibilities: * Provide direct support and supervision to adults with ...

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Be Seen First

Direct Support Professional

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Experience implementing behavior support plans is a plus. * Positive attitude, patience, and a heart for serving others. Responsibilities: * Provide direct support and supervision to adults with ...

New

Behavioral/Mental Health Specialist

North Bethesda, MD · On-site

$19.75 - $27.25/hr

Clinical Support * Conduct functional behavior assessments and other developmental evaluations. * Assess mental and behavioral health needs and provide individualized intervention strategies.

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Behavior Support information

See Washington salary details

$15

$28

$45

How much do behavior support jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavior support in Washington is $28.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $34.57 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Behavior Support Specialist, you need a background in psychology, education, or social work, often supported by a bachelor’s degree and specialized training in behavioral interventions. Familiarity with data collection software, behavior analysis tools, and sometimes certification such as Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) is valuable. Strong communication, patience, and problem-solving skills help build trust and effectively support individuals with behavioral challenges. These competencies are crucial to create positive behavioral changes and foster supportive learning or therapeutic environments.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

In the field of behavior support, most roles do not typically pay $2,000 a day; salaries are usually based on hourly or annual rates. High-paying positions in related fields, such as consulting or specialized behavioral therapy, may reach such daily rates for experienced professionals with advanced certifications. These roles often require extensive experience, licensure, and a strong client base or consulting contracts.

What is the highest paying job in behavioral health?

In behavioral health, licensed clinical psychologists and psychiatry professionals tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $100,000 annually. Advanced roles such as behavioral health medical directors or specialized clinical directors also command higher pay due to their leadership responsibilities and advanced certifications.

What does a behavior support do?

A behavior support professional develops and implements strategies to help individuals manage challenging behaviors, often working with people with developmental disabilities or mental health needs. They assess behavior patterns, create behavior intervention plans, and may use tools like positive reinforcement, while requiring skills in observation and communication. Certification or training in behavior analysis is often necessary for this role.

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

Becoming a behavioral specialist typically requires a bachelor's degree in psychology, education, or a related field, which takes about four years. Many positions also require relevant experience or certification, such as Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), which involves additional coursework and supervised practice that can take one to two years beyond the degree.

What are Behavior Support professionals?

Behavior Support professionals are specialists who work with individuals exhibiting challenging behaviors, often due to developmental, emotional, or psychological conditions. They assess behavior patterns, develop intervention plans, and provide strategies to promote positive behavior and reduce problematic actions. Their work is common in schools, healthcare settings, and community organizations, collaborating with families and other professionals. The goal is to improve the individual's quality of life and support their social, academic, or workplace success.

What is the difference between Behavior Support vs Behavior Technician?

AspectBehavior SupportBehavior Technician
CredentialsOften requires specialized training or certification in behavior analysis, such as BCBA or related certificationsTypically requires certification as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) or similar
Work EnvironmentWorks in schools, clinics, or community settings providing behavior intervention plansWorks directly with clients under supervision, often in similar settings
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by organizations implementing behavior intervention programs, often in healthcare or educational sectorsCommonly employed by ABA therapy providers, schools, and behavioral health agencies

Behavior Support professionals develop and implement strategies to improve behavior, often holding advanced certifications and working in multidisciplinary teams. Behavior Technicians assist in executing these plans under supervision, focusing on direct client interaction. Both roles are essential in behavioral intervention but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What are some common challenges faced by Behavior Support professionals when working in educational settings?

Behavior Support professionals in educational environments often encounter challenges such as managing diverse behavioral needs among students, developing individualized intervention plans, and ensuring consistent implementation across classrooms. Collaboration with teachers, administrators, and families is crucial, but aligning strategies and communication can require patience and adaptability. Staying up to date with evidence-based practices and maintaining detailed documentation are also key to effectively supporting student progress and meeting regulatory requirements.
What cities in Washington are hiring for Behavior Support jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Behavior Support job openings:
Infographic showing various Behavior Support job openings in Washington as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,382 per year, or $28.1 per hour.
Direct Support Professional, Residential

Direct Support Professional, Residential

Humanim

Columbia, MD • On-site

$14.75 - $18/hr

Part-time

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Provide direct care and supervision to individuals in accordance with their Person-Centered Plan (PCP), Individual Support Plan (ISP), and Behavior Support Plan (BSP) when applicable.

  • Assist individuals with activities of daily living including personal hygiene, dressing, grooming, and meal preparation.

  • Support individuals in developing life skills such as communication, budgeting, cooking, and household management.

  • Facilitate community integration through participation in social, recreational, vocational, and educational activities.

  • Administer or assist with medications in accordance with agency policies and state regulations.

  • Maintain accurate and timely documentation including daily notes, incident reports, medication administration records, and other required records.

  • Monitor individuals' health and safety and report any concerns, incidents, or behavioral changes to supervisors promptly.

  • Support individuals in maintaining a clean, safe, and organized living environment.

  • Implement positive behavioral supports and follow established behavior plans when necessary.

  • Maintain respectful, professional, and supportive relationships with individuals, families, guardians, and team members.

  • Participate in team meetings, trainings, and required professional development activities.

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to lift, assist, or transfer individuals when necessary.

  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, and perform physical activities associated with caregiving.

  • Ability to respond to emergency situations.