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Child Behavior Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Child Behavior Specialist Entry level pay starts at $20 for direct care and increases based on experience and certification; and ABA-specific education, up to $26 for direct care. Intercept Health is ...

Child Behavior Specialist Entry level pay starts at $20 for direct care and increases based on experience and certification; and ABA-specific education, up to $26 for direct care. Intercept Health is ...

Child Behavior Specialist Entry level pay starts at $20 for direct care and increases based on experience and certification; and ABA-specific education, up to $26 for direct care. Intercept Health is ...

Child Behavior Specialist Entry level pay starts at $20 for direct care and increases based on experience and certification; and ABA-specific education, up to $26 for direct care. Intercept Health is ...

Child Behavior Specialist Entry level pay starts at $20 for direct care and increases based on experience and certification; and ABA-specific education, up to $26 for direct care. Intercept Health is ...

Child Behavior Specialist Entry level pay starts at $20 for direct care and increases based on experience and certification; and ABA-specific education, up to $26 for direct care. Intercept Health is ...

Child Behavior Specialist Entry level pay starts at $20 for direct care and increases based on experience and certification; and ABA-specific education, up to $26 for direct care. Intercept Health is ...

Child Behavior Specialist Entry level pay starts at $20 for direct care and increases based on experience and certification; and ABA-specific education, up to $26 for direct care. Intercept Health is ...

Child Behavior Specialist Entry level pay starts at $20 for direct care and increases based on experience and certification; and ABA-specific education, up to $26 for direct care. Intercept Health is ...

Child Behavior Specialist Entry level pay starts at $20 for direct care and increases based on experience and certification; and ABA-specific education, up to $26 for direct care. Intercept Health is ...

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Child Behavior Specialist information

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How much do child behavior specialist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for child behavior specialist in the United States is $22.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What qualifies you to be a behavior specialist?

A Child Behavior Specialist typically qualifies by holding a relevant degree such as a bachelor's or master's in psychology, education, or a related field, along with specialized training in behavior analysis. Certification as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) or similar credential is often required, along with experience working with children and knowledge of behavior intervention strategies.

What does a child behavioral specialist do?

A child behavioral specialist assesses and addresses behavioral, emotional, and developmental issues in children. They develop and implement intervention plans, often using behavioral therapy techniques, to help children improve social skills, manage challenging behaviors, and support their overall well-being. Certification and training in child psychology or behavior management are typically required for this role.

What is the difference between Child Behavior Specialist vs Child Therapist?

AspectChild Behavior SpecialistChild Therapist
CredentialsOften requires certifications in behavior analysis or related fieldsTypically requires a master's degree in psychology, counseling, or social work
Work EnvironmentSchools, clinics, behavioral programsPrivate practice, clinics, hospitals, schools
Employer & IndustryEducational and behavioral agenciesHealthcare, mental health, educational settings
FocusBehavior modification and skill developmentEmotional, psychological, and mental health therapy

Child Behavior Specialists primarily focus on behavior management and skill development, often working in educational or behavioral settings. Child Therapists provide mental health therapy addressing emotional and psychological issues. While both roles support children's well-being, their training, methods, and work environments differ.

What is the highest paying job in child psychology?

The highest paying roles in child psychology typically include child and adolescent psychiatrists, who require medical degrees and specialized training, earning salaries often exceeding $200,000 annually. Other high-paying positions include clinical directors or psychologists with advanced certifications and extensive experience working in private practice or healthcare settings.

What does a Child Behavior Specialist do?

A Child Behavior Specialist is a professional who assesses and works with children experiencing behavioral, emotional, or social challenges. They develop individualized plans to help children manage behaviors, improve social skills, and cope with issues such as ADHD, autism, or trauma. These specialists often collaborate with parents, teachers, and other professionals to create supportive environments and strategies that promote positive behavior change.

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

To thrive as a Child Behavior Specialist, you need expertise in child development, behavioral assessment, and intervention strategies, typically backed by a degree in psychology, social work, or a related field. Familiarity with behavioral analysis tools, data tracking software, and relevant certifications such as BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst) are commonly required. Strong communication, patience, and problem-solving skills help build trust with children and families while collaborating effectively with multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualifications are essential for accurately assessing behavioral issues, implementing effective interventions, and supporting positive outcomes for children.

What is the highest paying job in behavioral health?

In behavioral health, roles such as clinical directors, psychiatric nurse practitioners, and licensed psychologists tend to have the highest salaries. These positions often require advanced degrees, licensure, and extensive experience, and they typically involve leadership or specialized clinical responsibilities.

What are some common challenges Child Behavior Specialists face when working with children from diverse backgrounds?

Child Behavior Specialists often encounter challenges related to cultural differences, communication styles, and varying family dynamics when working with children from diverse backgrounds. It's important to approach each child and family with cultural sensitivity, adapting assessment tools and intervention strategies to fit their unique needs. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including teachers, counselors, and social workers—can help ensure holistic care and more effective outcomes. Ongoing professional development and open communication with families are key to overcoming these challenges and providing the best support for each child.
More about Child Behavior Specialist jobs
What cities are hiring for Child Behavior Specialist jobs? Cities with the most Child Behavior Specialist job openings:
Infographic showing various Child Behavior Specialist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,731 per year, or $22.9 per hour.
Child Behavior Specialist

Child Behavior Specialist

Intercept Health

Henrico, VA • On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Part-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Child Behavior Specialist

Entry level pay starts at $20 for direct care and increases based on experience and certification; and ABA-specific education, up to $26 for direct care.

Intercept Health is a family-owned agency serving various mental and behavioral health, substance use, and foster care needs in Virginia. In 1996, what started as a single group home for boys has evolved year after year to fill gaps and meet the service needs of families and communities throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia.

"We help people grow and live their healthiest lives."

Our team members exhibit our VALUES - STOP & ASK:

  • Service Excellence - "WOW" clients, customers, and coworkers.
  • Team Loyalty - help others succeed.
  • Ownership - "see it, own it, solve it, do it."
  • Passion - inspire with positive energy and effort.

&

  • Authenticity - be genuine and trustworthy.
  • Solution Focused - overcome challenges with creativity.
  • Kindness - smile, encourage, and respect everyone.

As a child behavior specialist, you will be responsible for support and implementation of an individualized plan based on the client's targets and goals with a focus on decreasing unsafe behaviors while increasing communication and social skills while receiving support from a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. You will observe client skills and collect data to be used in assessing the individual's skills and to develop their program goals. You will work with children, adolescents, and young adults with autism, intellectual disabilities, or other developmental disabilities in our center based program that promote language, behavioral, social, and daily living skills.

Education and Experience Required: The selected candidate will have at least a high school diploma and previous experience working with children. Must possess a current registered behavior technician credential in good standing; or complete a 40-hour class, competency assessment, and exam to become a registered behavior technician within 6 months of hire (IH provides training compensation during this time). Bachelor's degree in Behavioral science is preferred; specific experience with children who have Autism, intellectual or developmental disabilities, or ABA experience, is a plus! Must have afternoon availability until 6 P.M.

PT Specialists are compensated for direct and indirect services provided, entry level pay starts at $20 for direct care and increases based on experience and certification; and ABA-specific education, up to $26 for direct care. Indirect care pay range is between $15 and $18 based on experience and certification.

To review the full job description and to more about Intercept Health, please visit: www.intercepthealth.com


Intercept Health is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and embraces diversity in the workplace. We are also committed to providing a drug-free, safe workplace for our employees and the clients we serve. For more information about Intercept Health, please visit our website www.intercepthealth.com.