Behavioral Specialist (Part-Time)

YMCA of Central Massachusetts•Southbridge, MA

About The Position

Under the supervision of the School Age Childcare Director, the Behavioral Specialist assesses program behavioral and social-emotional needs through systematic observations and data collection. The specialist collaborates with parents, staff, family advocates, coaches, and mental health and special education partners to develop, support, and evaluate behavior needs, plans, and intervention strategies. The role includes observing staff–child interactions, coaching and modeling for staff, communicating with families, embedding evidence-based practices into the program, and tracking data to monitor progress toward social-emotional goals that support children’s overall school success. The specialist supports high-quality services for children and families and fosters an environment where children and staff can thrive.

Requirements

Current licensure or certification in a related field is required, such as Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Behavior Analyst, School Psychologist, or Special Education certification or equivalent.
Bachelor’s degree in Special Education, Psychology, or a related field is required.
Superior interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with diverse personalities, demonstrating tact, maturity, and flexibility.
Resourcefulness and strong organizational skills, with the ability to work independently and with minimal supervision.
Ability to establish and maintain positive, effective working relationships with coworkers, community partners, and parents.
Demonstrated crisis intervention skills related to child, youth, or teen mental health.
Strong knowledge of community resources supporting youth and family mental health.
Availability for afternoon shifts; applicants should provide their availability.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in Social Work, Education, Psychology, or a related discipline.
At least three years of experience in behavior management or mental health within a childhood or educational setting.

Responsibilities

Support high-quality daily programming and services for children and families.
Observe staff–child interactions and use collected data to guide behavioral support, program decisions, and compliance with program and grant requirements.
Compile, interpret, and track observation and behavioral data to measure progress toward social-emotional goals and program outcomes.
Develop and refine individualized behavior plans and strategies with teaching staff, families, and relevant partners.
Analyze the effectiveness of behavior interventions and use data trends to embed successful practices in the program.
Coordinate consistent implementation of behavioral interventions among teachers, parents, and service partners.
Collaborate with program directors, families, behavioral specialists, the social emotional administrator, community partners, mental health and special education providers, and staff to support children’s behavioral and social-emotional needs.
Communicate with families to share progress, gather input, and support continuity between home and school.
Maintain knowledge of community and program resources to assist with referrals and individualized behavioral and social-emotional strategies.
Train, mentor, model, and coach staff in behavioral, mental health, and social-emotional practices.
Identify programmatic barriers affecting child development or family engagement and support strategies to address them.
Coordinate and participate in meetings and conferences with program directors, staff, families, or service providers as needed.
Cultivate positive, professional working relationships with stakeholders.
Accurately and promptly document and track services related to behavioral support, special needs, and mental health interventions.
Respect and support cultural differences, diverse family structures, and inclusive practices in service delivery.
Complete required child-protection training before beginning work.