Behavior Support Assistant

PHILLIPS Programs for Children and Families; Fairfax (VA); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Ongoing training

Student loan forgiveness eligibility

Job summary

PHILLIPS Programs for Children and Families' PHILLIPS Programs Schools are private special education day schools serving students with emotional and behavioral needs. We provide a structured, compassionate environment where staff are supported in developing regulation, independence, and academic growth.

As a Behavior Support Assistant, you will work directly with students throughout the day, partnering with Teachers and Clinical staff to provide consistent, individualized support, ensuring

Qualifications

• High school diploma required; college coursework in Education, Psychology, or related fields preferred.
• Experience supporting students with special needs, emotional regulation challenges, or similar settings strongly preferred.
• Ability to remain calm, patient, and consistent in fast-paced situations.
• Comfort with documentation, data tracking, and following structured plans.
• Genuine interest in supporting students with diverse learning and emotional needs.

Responsibilities

• Providing individual and small-group student support aligned with IEP goals
• Supporting individualized programs focused on regulation, engagement, and skill development
• Assisting with data collection and documentation related to student progress
• Supervising students during classroom activities, transitions, meals, transportation, and off-campus activities
• Supporting de-escalation and crisis response in accordance with training and school protocols
• Collaborating with teachers, behavior staff, and related service providers
• Helping maintain a safe, structured, and supportive learning environment
• Assisting with classroom organization and daily program needs

Skills

Student support

De-escalation

Data tracking

Team collaboration

Education

High school diploma

Job description

Make a meaningful impact. Support students who need it most.

PHILLIPS Programs Schools are private special education day schools serving students with emotional and behavioral needs. We provide a structured, compassionate environment where students are supported in developing regulation, independence, and academic growth — and where staff are empowered to do meaningful, hands‑on work.

Why PHILLIPS?

• Ongoing training and professional development
• Eligible employer for the Federal Student Loan Forgiveness Program

What You’ll Do:

As a Behavior Support Assistant, you’ll work directly with students throughout the school day, partnering closely with Teachers, Instructional Assistants, and Clinical staff to provide consistent, individualized support. This role is highly student‑facing and plays a critical role in maintaining safety, structure, and engagement.

Responsibilities include:

• Providing individual and small‑group student support aligned with IEP goals
• Supporting individualized programs focused on regulation, engagement, and skill development
• Assisting with data collection and documentation related to student progress
• Supervising students during classroom activities, transitions, meals, transportation, and off‑campus activities
• Supporting de‑escalation and crisis response in accordance with training and school protocols
• Collaborating with teachers, behavior staff, and related service providers
• Helping maintain a safe, structured, and supportive learning environment
• Assisting with classroom organization and daily program needs

What We’re Looking For:

High school diploma required; college coursework in Education, Psychology, or related fields preferred

Experience supporting students with special needs, emotional regulation challenges, or similar settings strongly preferred

Ability to remain calm, patient, and consistent in fast‑paced situations

Comfort with documentation, data tracking, and following structured plans

Genuine interest in supporting students with diverse learning and emotional needs

Who This Role Is Great For:

• Candidates interested in special education, behavioral health, or youth services
• Individuals with experience in behavioral support, residential care, or therapeutic settings
• Those seeking a hands‑on, student‑facing role with strong team support and growth opportunities