Behavioral Intervention Specialist

Racker•Cortland County, NY

5d•$51,000 - $61,000

About The Position

At Racker, the Behavioral Intervention Specialist in the Supporting Success program helps individuals develop skills and reduce unsafe behaviors so they can be independent, safe, and happy. The specialist uses evidence-based practices and proactive strategies to address significant behaviors affecting participants’ quality of life. The role involves working independently with families in their homes and requires autonomy, sound judgment, and reliability. The ideal candidate is knowledgeable in behavioral principles, compassionate, goal-directed, and flexible. Strong written and oral communication skills are essential for partnering with families, completing paperwork, and collaborating with professional and natural supports. The position uses assessments and data and requires a commitment to ongoing learning and adopting new methods. Creativity and playfulness are valued in making strategies and tools engaging, accessible, and meaningful. Racker describes its work as a commitment to building inclusive, supportive communities and offers a dynamic, mission-driven culture, ongoing professional development, a supportive team environment, and opportunities to innovate and make a difference. The salary is $51,000–$61,000 per year, depending on experience, and the position is benefits eligible.

Requirements

A combination of BCBA, LMSW, MSW, or a master’s degree in a human-service-related field, as required by OPWDD.
A valid New York State driver’s license and the ability to meet Racker’s Approved Driver criteria.
Ability to understand the purpose of behaviors.
Ability to assess unmet needs in belonging, generosity, mastery, and independence using the Circle of Courage model.
Ability to work in a variety of settings.
Understanding of behavioral principles, human development needs, family dynamics, and developmental disabilities.
Knowledge of county and community resources.
Ability to operate standard office equipment.
Ability to use a personal vehicle for flexible and timely responses to meet with clients in the community.
Ability to use a personal smartphone for communication and documentation.
Strong written and oral communication skills.

Responsibilities

Create person-centered behavioral supports and interventions to develop, increase, and maintain functional behaviors, prevent or greatly reduce unsafe behaviors, and enrich the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities.
Partner with individuals and their families or caregivers to understand the function of behavior, develop tools that support positive change, evaluate effectiveness, and revise strategies as needed.
Complete behavioral assessments on a scheduled basis and when a need arises.
Develop individualized, strength-based goals based on assessments, input, and interactions with the individual and family.
Participate as an active member of each individual’s team and collaborate professionally with Racker staff and staff from other agencies.
Prioritize support for individuals in the program and work toward transitioning them to periodic support and graduation.
Respond to crises involving individuals and their families as a member of the support team.