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Human Behavior Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

By improving IE analysis and decision-making, this position helps shape the OE and influence human behavior to achieve strategic objectives. Responsibilities: * Developing and delivering training on ...

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities- Knowledge- Considerable knowledge of: applicable laws, codes, policies, and procedures related to public assistance programs; basic human behavior; financial ...

By improving IE analysis and decision-making, this position helps shape the OE and influence human behavior to achieve strategic objectives. Responsibilities: * Review, monitor and develop ...

By improving IE analysis and decision-making, this position helps shape the OE and influence human behavior to achieve strategic objectives. Responsibilities: * Review, monitor and develop ...

$18.50 - $20/hr

Colonial Behavioral Health provides opportunities for recovery to individuals and their family ... We are currently seeking a Human Resources Assistant to join our team. This position provides ...

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Human Behavior information

See Virginia salary details

$11

$28

$47

How much do human behavior jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for human behavior in Virginia is $28.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.57 and $33.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is human behavior?

Human behavior refers to the range of actions, reactions, and mannerisms exhibited by individuals or groups in response to internal and external stimuli. It encompasses everything from basic biological responses to complex social interactions and cultural practices. Psychologists, sociologists, and other researchers study human behavior to better understand how people think, feel, and act in various situations, which can help improve mental health, workplace dynamics, education, and more.

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

To thrive as a Behavioral Scientist, you need a solid background in psychology, research methodology, and data analysis, often supported by an advanced degree in behavioral sciences or a related field. Familiarity with statistical software (such as SPSS or R), survey platforms, and experimental design is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, communication skills, and curiosity help individuals excel at interpreting data and conveying insights to diverse audiences. These skills and qualifications are crucial for developing evidence-based interventions and effectively influencing human behavior in various settings.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals who analyze human behavior, and how can they effectively address them?

Professionals who analyze human behavior, such as behavioral scientists or analysts, often encounter challenges like interpreting complex data, managing ethical considerations, and minimizing personal bias in their assessments. Navigating sensitive topics and ensuring participant confidentiality are also frequent concerns. To address these challenges, it's important to employ rigorous research methodologies, participate in ongoing ethics training, and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to gain diverse perspectives and maintain objectivity.

What is the difference between Human Behavior vs Psychology?

AspectHuman BehaviorPsychology
Required CredentialsNone specific, often self-taught or general interestDegree in psychology, licensure for practice
Work EnvironmentResearch, education, consulting, or personal developmentClinics, hospitals, research institutions, academic settings
Industry UsageUnderstanding and analyzing human actionsStudying mental processes, diagnosing, therapy
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding human actions and motivationsDiagnosing mental health issues, therapy, research

Human Behavior focuses on observing and analyzing how people act in various contexts, often without formal credentials. Psychology involves scientific study and clinical practice of mental processes, requiring specialized education and licensure. While both explore aspects of the mind and actions, Human Behavior is broader and more accessible, whereas Psychology is a professional discipline with specific qualifications.

What can you do with a human behavior degree?

A human behavior degree prepares individuals for careers in fields such as psychology, social work, counseling, human resources, and research. Graduates can work in settings like healthcare, education, corporate environments, or community organizations, often utilizing skills in communication, analysis, and understanding of human actions.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Human Behavior jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Human Behavior job openings:

Infographic showing various Human Behavior job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,628 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

Family Services Specialist II (Foster Care)

City of Alexandria

Radford, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


City Of Alexandria (Louisiana) rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

457th of 857 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Title Description- Family Services Specialist I represents the entry level employees working under close supervision while being trained in program areas such as, Adult/Adult Protective Services, Child Protective Services, Foster Care/'Adoption, Child Care, and Employment Services. Employees perform routine- to journey-level casework activities and the casework usually is reviewed by the supervisor prior to implementing a case action. Upon completion of the training program and attainment of necessary approvals, the employee shall be redefined to a full-performance Family Services Specialist II and becomes eligible for a pay increase as defined by the local agency compensation plan. The Family Services Specialist I is distinguished from the Family Services Specialist II by the latter's functioning more independently as a full performance Family Services Specialist. 

 
General Work Tasks (Illustrative Only) - 
  • Interprets laws, policies and regulations as applied to specific area of responsibility;
  • Monitors, coordinates and administers specific programs as assigned;
  • Coordinates services within specific area of responsibility;
  • Interviews and assesses customer needs and other relevant factors - such as education/skill levels, abilities, interests, and support systems.
  • Informs clients of related service programs rules/regulations, and right to participate;
  • Presents cases to determine appropriate services and writes/implements service plans;
  • Provides case management services to monitor compliance;
  • Manages program waiting lists;
  • Tracks expenditures, prepares/submits budget estimates and ensures payment for services;
  • Completes necessary federal, state and local planning and reporting requirements;
  • Coordinates with other agencies and participates in multi-disciplinary and interagency teams providing services to customers;
  • Conducts overall monitoring of programs in specific area of responsibility;
  • Serves as resource to clients and the community in area of expertise; and
  • Provides after hours on-call coverage and responds to emergencies in child/adult protective services and/or foster care.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Knowledge- Some knowledge of: social work principles and practices; human behavior and motivational theory; and social, economic, and health problems.

 
Skills- Skill in operating a motor vehicle and personal computer with associated software.

 
Abilities- Demonstrated ability to: communicate effectively both orally and in writing; interview, assess needs, counsel and refer clients to other resources as needed; develop and implement service plans in order to insure the delivery of appropriate services to the client; make sound judgments within the framework of existing laws, policies, and regulations; respond to the client's emotions in order to accomplish services objectives; plan and manage own work activities including service delivery preparing reports, and correspondence, record keeping responsibilities and related activities; establish and maintain effective relationships; and stay abreast of current trends and developments in the social work field.

 
Education and Experience- Minimum of a Bachelor's degree in a Human Services field or minimum of a Bachelor's degree in any field with a minimum of two years of appropriate and related experience in a Human Services area as mandated in Section 22VAC40-670-20 of the Administrative Code of Virginia and implemented by the Virginia Board of Social Services. Possession of a BSW or MSW degree and a Commonwealth of Virginia Social Worker license are desirable.

 
Minimum Qualifications:
Minimum of a Bachelor's degree in a Human Services field or minimum of a Bachelor's degree in any field and minimum of two years of appropriate and related experience in a Human Services area (Section 22VAC40-670-20 of the Administrative Code of Virginia).
Working knowledge of social work principles and practices; human behavior and motivational theory; laws, policies, and regulations relating to human services program areas; and social, economic, and health problems.
Skill in operating a motor vehicle and personal computer with associated software.
Demonstrated ability to communicate orally and in writing.

Demonstrated ability to assess clients' needs and formulate a plan of action.  Refer clients to resources as appropriate.
 


 

 
Preferred Qualifications: 

 Experience in assigned program area (i.e. Foster Care/Adoption) and completion of required training programs or equivalent combination of training or experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.
Possession of a BSW or MSW degree and a Commonwealth of Virginia Social Worker license are desirable.


 


 

 
Special Requirements:

 Applicants may be subject to a Criminal History Background search, Central Registry search, DMV/driving record check, and/or pre-employment drug screen.
The investigation may include fingerprint checks (State Police, FBI), local agency checks, employment verification and references, verification of education (relevant to employment), credit checks (relevant to employment) and other checks requested by the hiring authority.
This position is covered under Code of Virginia 63.2-1601.1 or 63.2-1720 requiring the finalist candidate to submit to fingerprinting and provide personal descriptive information for a criminal history record check through the Central Criminal Records Exchange and a search of the Central Registry.
All offers of employment are contingent upon satisfactory results of the required checks and screenings.
Employee must be willing to work in community emergency shelter in the event of a natural disaster or emergency. May be required to participate in afterhours on-call schedule on a rotating basis.
Employee must be able to telework if necessary. Complete a minimum of 2 hours of Community Outreach as outlined by the Agency each year. These events are held outside of normal office hours.
Driving record must meet agency standard.

 

 
Special Instructions to Applicants:

 

Applications accepted only through this on-line process.
Applicants are encouraged to provide a complete listing of work experience and qualifications on their application and/or resume.
Applications for this position must be submitted electronically through this website. Mailed, e-mailed, faxed or hand delivered applications will not be accepted. 
Consideration for an interview is based solely on the information within the application and/or resume.


 

 


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