Behavioral Specialist- Head Start Program

QUALIFICATIONS

Candidates for this position must hold at least a Bachelors degree in psychology social work counseling or a related field with a Masters degree preferred and have a minimum of three years of experience working with students who exhibit challenging behaviors in a school or therapeutic setting. Candidates should have experience in behavioral assessment intervention and family counseling. Certification or licensure as a behavioral health professional such as a Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP) qualification is preferred. Additionally the candidate must either have or be willing to obtain certification in crisis intervention or de-escalation techniques. A strong understanding of child development and early childhood education is essential along with expertise in positive behavioral supports trauma-informed care and behavior management strategies. The candidate must also possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills enabling them to work effectively with children families and staff. The ability to collaborate within an interdisciplinary team as well as strong organizational and time-management skills are also critical for this role. Bilingual candidates particularly those fluent in English and Spanish are encouraged to apply.

DESCRIPTION

The Head Start Behavior Specialist plays a crucial role in promoting the emotional social and behavioral development of young children enrolled in Head Start programs. This position is responsible for providing direct services to children and their families supporting teaching staff and working closely with the interdisciplinary team to develop and implement individualized behavioral strategies. The Behavior Specialist ensures compliance with Head Start Program Performance Standards and provides expertise in early childhood behavioral interventions and mental health.

GENERAL DUTIES (May not include all duties performed)

• Conduct regular observations and behavioral assessments of children to identify those needing support.
• Develop and implement individualized behavior intervention plans (BIPs) for children demonstrating challenging behaviors.
• Collaborate with teaching staff to incorporate positive behavioral supports into the classroom environment.
• Provide direct services including counseling and therapeutic interventions to children as needed.
• Collaborate with families to understand their childs behavioral needs and provide education and resources on managing challenging behaviors at home.
• Facilitate family-centered meetings to discuss behavioral strategies and progress.
• Offer referrals for external mental health or behavioral services when necessary.
• Provide ongoing training and coaching to staff on positive behavioral support trauma-informed care and classroom management techniques.
• Offer consultation to staff regarding specific children and situations to enhance classroom environments.
• Ensure that all behavioral interventions align with Head Starts mental health and education policies.
• Maintain accurate and confidential records of all behavioral assessments intervention plans and services provided.
• Ensure compliance with all Head Start Performance Standards local state and federal regulations related to child behavior and mental health.
• Prepare reports and participate in interdisciplinary meetings to review childrens progress.
• Collaborate with the Mental Health Coordinator to evaluate and improve behavioral support services within the program.
• Contribute to the develop
• Perform other work-related duties as assigned.

SUPERVISION

The Behavior Specialist for Head Start works under the general supervision of the Head Start administrator and School Administration.

WORK CONDITIONS

Duties performed are typically in a school setting. Work involves providing direct-care and consultative services for the assigned school/program. The role may involve walking standing bending stooping and light lifting. The position requires the physical ability to operate office machinery drive a motor vehicle and attend meetings. The Behavior Specialist must be able to handle levels of stress particularly when dealing with children and families in crisis and should be adaptable to perform under varying levels of stress.

CONTRACT LENGTH

200 Days

Required Experience:

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