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Behavioral Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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$13

$26

$40

How much do behavioral associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavioral associate in the United States is $26.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $32.21 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Behavioral Associates?

Behavioral Associates are professionals who work with individuals, often children or those with developmental or behavioral challenges, to implement behavioral interventions and support plans. They typically work under the supervision of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) or other clinical supervisors. Their primary role is to help clients develop positive behaviors, improve social skills, and reduce problematic behaviors through evidence-based strategies such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Behavioral Associates may work in schools, clinics, or homes and often collaborate with families and other professionals. This role requires strong communication, patience, and a commitment to helping others achieve their personal goals.

What can I do with an associate's degree in behavioral health?

A behavioral associate with an associate's degree can work in settings such as mental health clinics, residential facilities, or community programs, providing support and assisting with client care under supervision. This role often involves skills in communication, documentation, and basic behavioral interventions, and may require certification or training depending on the employer.

What is the difference between Behavioral Associate vs Behavioral Technician?

AspectBehavioral AssociateBehavioral Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentClinics, schools, or community settings; supervised by cliniciansClinical or home settings; supervised by behavior analysts or clinicians
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare, mental health, educational servicesBehavior analysis, mental health, autism services
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, qualifications, and responsibilitiesJob duties, certification requirements, work settings

The main difference between a Behavioral Associate and a Behavioral Technician lies in their roles and responsibilities. Behavioral Associates often have broader responsibilities, may require additional certifications, and work closely with clinicians in various settings. Behavioral Technicians typically focus on implementing behavior plans under supervision. Both roles are vital in behavioral health services, but the Behavioral Associate position generally involves more complex tasks and higher qualifications.

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

To thrive as a Behavioral Associate, you generally need a background in psychology or a related field and experience in behavioral health settings. Familiarity with behavioral intervention plans, data collection software, and sometimes certification as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) are commonly required. Strong communication, patience, and observational skills help professionals build rapport and effectively support clients. These competencies ensure effective implementation of treatment plans and contribute to positive outcomes for individuals receiving behavioral support.

What are some common challenges Behavioral Associates face when working with clients, and how can they be addressed?

Behavioral Associates often encounter challenges such as managing clients with difficult behaviors, maintaining consistent intervention strategies, and ensuring effective communication with families and other team members. To address these challenges, it’s important to receive regular supervision, engage in ongoing training, and collaborate closely with Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) and colleagues. Establishing clear boundaries, practicing patience, and using evidence-based strategies can also help Behavioral Associates navigate the complexities of the role while ensuring positive outcomes for clients.

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 compensation, especially with additional certifications and leadership responsibilities.

How long does it take to become a BHT?

Becoming a Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) typically requires completing a state-mandated training program, which can range from a few days to several weeks, depending on state requirements. After training, candidates often need to obtain certification or licensure, which may involve passing an exam and gaining supervised experience, usually totaling a few months to a year before fully qualifying as a BHT.

What skills do you need to be a BHT?

To be a Behavioral Health Technician (BHT), strong communication skills, patience, and the ability to work with individuals with mental health or developmental disabilities are essential. Knowledge of behavioral intervention techniques and the ability to follow treatment plans are also important; some positions may require certification or training in CPR and first aid.
More about Behavioral Associate jobs
What cities are hiring for Behavioral Associate jobs? Cities with the most Behavioral Associate job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Behavioral jobs? The most popular types of Behavioral jobs are:
What states have the most Behavioral Associate jobs? States with the most job openings for Behavioral Associate jobs include:
Infographic showing various Behavioral Associate job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,253 per year, or $26.1 per hour.
Behavioral Associate - Contracted

Behavioral Associate - Contracted

Carbon Lehigh Intermediate Unit

Schnecksville, PA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Position Type:
BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES/Behavioral Associate
Date Posted:
12/12/2024
Location:
Schnecksville, PAThis is a contracted position that works up to 29 hours a week and no benefits are offered
Position Definition: The person filling this position will provide one-to-one behavioral interventions with clients and serve as a model for appropriate and pro-social behaviors.
Relationship: The Behavioral Associate shall be directly responsible to the Assistant Director of Special Programs and Services.
Qualifications:
Education/Experience:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Human Services or Special Education.
  • One year experience in Human Services or Special Education.

Skills/Knowledge:
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills.
  • Ability to work positively in a strength-based model with educational staff.
  • Ability to follow daily routine and provide necessary accommodations in order for student to be successful.
  • Due to itinerant nature of position, must have a valid driver's license.

Physical:
  • Ability to physically restrain children/adolescents.

Authority: The Behavioral Associate will have the authority to perform all functions listed above in accordance with established policies and procedures.
Functions/Duties/Responsibilities: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function/duty/responsibility at acceptable standards. In accordance with both state and/or federal law, reasonable accommodations will be considered upon employee request.
Essential:
  • Assist in the development and implementation of a behavior plan for individual students.
  • Provide one-to-one direct interventions for the child which focus on appropriate behaviors necessary for successful adjustment to the daily school routine.
  • Provide instruction for students on study skills, behavior management, conflict resolution, anger management, and peer interaction.
  • Work with student and educational staff to provide stabilization of the student in the school community.
  • Keep data on child's behavioral progress.
Secondary:
  • Collaborate with teacher and educational staff to ensure successful adjustment to the school environment.
  • Complete appropriate paper work and documentation as required.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.