Behavior Specialist–Youth Development

YMCA Of Greater Seattle • Seattle, WA

1d • $24 - $27

About The Position

We have a strong commitment to equity
The Y actively promotes a culture free from bias and injustice. We are dedicated to removing institutional and systemic barriers that result in oppression and racism. We will be accountable to marginalized communities for creating equitable and sustainable environments where social justice is woven into every facet of our programs, and by caring for our communities in a culturally versatile and respectful manner.
Tell me about this job!
The Behavior Specialist supports youth, families, and staff across Youth Development programs, including before and after school care, and day camps. As part of the Youth Program Support (YPS) team, this role develops and implements behavior support plans, collaborates with families, and coaches program staff to ensure successful implementation. Serving approximately 5,000 youth and families annually across King County, the Behavior Specialist helps create inclusive environments where youth can develop, succeed, and thrive.
Compensation: $24.00-27.00/hr DOE
What you'll get from working at The Y
Membership to the YMCA of Greater Seattle for you and your household
Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life insurance
Retirement with generous employer contributions
Free access to mental health resources
Rapidly-accruing paid time off (PTO) available immediately upon hire
Discounts on qualifying YMCA of Greater Seattle childcare, day camp, overnight camp and outdoor leadership programs. 25% for part-time staff, 50% for full-time staff
MMR Vaccination Required: Licensed School Age Programs require Mumps, Measles and Rubella immunization in accordance with Department of Children, Youth and Family requirments.

Requirements

• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Bachelor’s degree in Family & Child Studies, Psychology, Social Work, or a related field required; equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.
• Demonstrated ability to support children with diverse and specialized needs in childcare and day camp settings.
• Ability to travel independently to multiple program sites across King County; access to a reliable vehicle required.
• Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Office.
• Experience collecting, tracking, and summarizing data into reports; experience developing behavior support plans preferred.
• Strong organizational, communication, and time management skills with attention to detail and follow-through.
• Experience working with diverse populations; cultural competency and inclusive practices strongly preferred.
• Current state-approved First Aid, CPR certifications required (or ability to obtain upon hire).
• Ability to pass a criminal background and reference check per company policy.
• We require pre-employment TB tests and MMR vaccination. To make this process convenient for our new hires, we offer Concentra options at no cost to you.
• Cleared Portable Background Check in the statewide registry MERIT.
• At hire, or earliest possible training (but no later than 30 days after employment.)
• At hire, or during onboarding for position.

Nice To Haves

• Bilingual or multilingual abilities are a plus.
• Experience with case management or client tracking systems preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement individualized behavior support plans for youth in assigned program area.
• Collaborate with program staff and families to ensure consistent and effective implementation of support strategies.
• Provide behavior management and intervention strategies aligned with supports from home, school, and community partners.
• Coach Youth Development staff on behavior management techniques and youth engagement through on-site support and trainings.
• Maintain ongoing communication with program teams and families to monitor progress and adjust plans as needed.
• Conduct on-site observations (across King County) to gather data, inform support plans, and provide real-time coaching.
• Document and report all incidents in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures.
• Meet regularly with program teams to ensure alignment, consistency, and follow-through on support plans and progressive discipline procedures.
• Manage and track required documentation related to youth supports and accommodations.
• Participate in a variety of internal meetings to maintain knowledge of industry requirements, support optimal customer care, and maintain team collaboration.
• Maintain required minimum qualifications for the position such as licenses, finger prints and background checks, certifications, or credentials.
• Perform any tasks to assist in keeping a clean, safe, and efficient working environment.
• Integrate all safety policies and procedures into daily practice.
• Adhere to all company policies, procedures, and state and federal regulations.
• Other duties as assigned. The position may also be modified to accommodate the specific needs of the business.

Benefits

• Membership to the YMCA of Greater Seattle for you and your household
• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life insurance
• Retirement with generous employer contributions
• Free access to mental health resources
• Rapidly-accruing paid time off (PTO) available immediately upon hire
• Discounts on qualifying YMCA of Greater Seattle childcare, day camp, overnight camp and outdoor leadership programs. 25% for part-time staff, 50% for full-time staff

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees