Behavioral Health & Disabilities Specialist

Community Action Partnership of San Luis Obispo County, Inc.•San Luis Obispo, CA

21h

About The Position

Under the supervision of the Behavioral Health & Disabilities Manager, this role supports Disabilities and Behavioral Health services for children ages birth to five in CYFS programs. The Specialist provides training and technical assistance to staff and parents, supports child development through guidance and observation, and ensures compliance with disability laws. This position also coordinates referrals for children needing special education or behavioral health services to the appropriate agencies.

Requirements

Level 1: Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development, or a closely related field.
Level 2: Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development, or a closely related field. Plus two years of experience in teaching/management in an early childhood program.
Level 3: Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education, Special Education, Psychology or a closely related field. Must be certified in a specific area related to data analysis and preparation of reports, presentations to board and overseeing Behavioral Health Consultants community partners. Plus four years of experience in teaching/management in an early childhood program or working with children with disabilities.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with children with a diversity of special needs preferred.
Teaching experience with children 0-5 years of age.
Fluency in two or more languages, including one that supports the needs of the program and community is preferred, but not required

Responsibilities

Train and support staff and families on IDEA, disability laws, Head Start Performance Standards, and referral/evaluation processes.
Maintain partnerships and collaboration with School Districts, SELPAs, Part C Providers, LEAs, Mental Health Consultants, and community resources.
Support transitions and attend IEP/IFSP meetings; assist families in advocating for necessary disability services.
Monitor and maintain accurate documentation, data entry, and records for IEP/IFSP goals and disability‑related services.
Conduct observations and visits to centers, provider homes, and home‑based settings to support accommodations, behavioral needs, and implementation of plans.
Provide behavioral and mental health guidance, training, and PBSP development; ensure staff understand referral pathways and best‑practice strategies.
Offer ongoing training and modeling of evidence-based practices (e.g., Teaching Pyramid, Second Step, Conscious Discipline).
Participate in Case Review and maintain communication, case management, referrals, and follow‑up for identified children and families.
Attend meetings and trainings, stay current on practices, maintain confidentiality, and support inclusive environments for all children and families.
Conduct in‑person and electronic monitoring to ensure compliance with CAPSLO policies, California requirements, and program standards.