Behavior Management Specialist

R'Club Child Care; Saint Petersburg (FL); On-site; USD 48,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

R'Club Child Care is seeking a Behavior Specialist to support children, families, and staff by promoting positive behavior and social-emotional development. You will observe, assess, coach, train, and plan interventions for children with challenging behaviors, collaborating with families and community partners to create inclusive learning environments.

Responsibilities include conducting assessments, developing behavior plans, coaching teachers, and leading staff training while maintaining

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, Child Development, Early Childhood Education, Special Education, Behavior Analysis, or related field is required.
• Experience with early childhood or school-age settings and supporting children with behavioral needs is preferred.
• Ability to coach staff and engage families effectively is essential.

Responsibilities

• Observe children in classroom and program settings to identify factors affecting behavior.
• Conduct functional behavior assessments and develop behavior support plans.
• Provide coaching and consultation to teachers and program staff.
• Deliver training on behavior management, de-escalation techniques, and child development.
• Engage families to discuss interventions and progress and connect to community resources.

Skills

Observation

Assessment

Coaching staff

Communication

Documentation

Trauma-informed care

Positive behavior support

Relationship building

Office software

Education

Bachelor's degree in Psychology or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Electronic documentation systems

Job description

Position SummaryThe Behavior Specialist supports children, families, and staff by promoting positive behavior, social emotional development, and successful participation in childcare programs. This position provides observation, assessment, coaching, training, and intervention planning for children who demonstrate challenging behaviors or require additional support. The Behavior Specialist works collaboratively with families, teachers, administrators, and community partners to create inclusive learning environments that meet the needs of all children.Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesChild Support and AssessmentObserve children in classroom and program settings.Identify behavioral, emotional, developmental, and environmental factors affecting a child's success.Conduct functional behavior assessments and develop behavior support plans.Monitor child progress and adjust interventions based on outcomes.Document observations, interventions, and recommendations in accordance with agency standards.Support successful transitions between classrooms and programs.Staff Support and CoachingProvide coaching and consultation to teachers and program staff.Model positive behavior supports strategies in classroom settings.Assist staff in implementing behavior intervention plans with fidelity.Promote developmentally appropriate practices and trauma informed approaches.Support classroom management and social emotional learning initiatives.Conduct training sessions for staff on behavior management, de-escalation techniques, and child development.Family EngagementPartner with families to understand child strengths, needs, and concerns.Provide guidance and education on positive parenting and behavior support strategies.Facilitate meetings with families to discuss interventions and progress.Connect families to community resources and specialized services when appropriate.Maintain respectful and culturally responsive communication with families.Collaboration and Program SupportParticipate in multidisciplinary team meetings.Assist leadership in developing policies and procedures related to behavioral health and inclusion.Support agency efforts to reduce suspensions and expulsions.Analyze behavior trends and recommend program improvements.QualificationsEducationBachelor's degree in Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, Child Development, Early Childhood Education, Special Education, Behavior Analysis, or a related field required.ExperienceMinimum of two years of experience working with children in early childhood or school age settings.Experience supporting children with behavioral, emotional, developmental, or trauma related needs.Experience providing staff coaching and family consultation preferred.Knowledge and SkillsStrong understanding of child development and social emotional development.Knowledge of positive behavior support practices.Understanding of trauma informed care principles.Ability to conduct observations and behavioral assessments.Excellent communication and relationship building skills.Strong organizational and documentation skills.Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries.Proficiency with Microsoft Office and electronic documentation systems.Physical RequirementsAbility to move throughout classrooms and program sites.Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, and kneel for extended periods.Ability to occasionally lift up to 30 pounds.Ability to participate in classroom activities and interact directly with children.Work EnvironmentTravel between program locations may be required.Regular interaction with children, families, staff, and community partners.Combination of office, classroom, and program visit settings.Performance IndicatorsReduction in challenging behaviors among supported children.Increased staff confidence and implementation of behavior support strategies.Positive family engagement and satisfaction.Timely completion of assessments, documentation, and intervention plans.Improved child participation, social skills, and program retention.