Lead Behavior Specialist

Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia•Hamilton Township, NJ

16d•$62,900 - $80,200

About The Position

CHOP is seeking a Lead Behavior Specialist to work with children and adolescents who have complex emotional and behavioral challenges. The role combines hands-on clinical work with leadership, including guiding and mentoring a team of behavioral specialists, shaping treatment strategies, and influencing program outcomes. The specialist develops and implements evidence-based behavior plans, collaborates with multidisciplinary professionals, schools, and families, and participates in program development, staff training, and research or evaluation initiatives. The position serves as the primary behavior therapist for assigned patients and coordinates daily treatment room operations. It also supervises and trains behavior team staff, supports accurate documentation and regulatory compliance, and helps maintain a safe therapeutic environment. A master's degree in a relevant field and at least five years of direct-care experience with children with social, emotional, and behavioral needs are required. Certification in Nonviolent Crisis Intervention through the Crisis Prevention Institute is required within three months; several Pennsylvania clinical or behavior-analysis credentials are preferred.

Requirements

Master's degree in psychology, social work, special education, school psychology, applied behavioral analysis, or a similar field.
At least five years of experience with direct care of children with social, emotional, and behavioral needs.
Knowledge of typical and atypical child and adolescent development and related areas.
Knowledge of youth psychopathology.
Knowledge of therapy and psychological assessment techniques with youth and families.
Knowledge of behavioral methodology and principles.
Ability to communicate verbally and in writing in English.
Computer skills, including familiarity with word processing, spreadsheet, and database programs.
Ability to direct and motivate staff teams.
Critical analysis and problem-solving skills.
Ability to work independently.
Ability to work collaboratively with other health care team providers.
Certification in Nonviolent Crisis Intervention from the Crisis Prevention Institute within three months of employment.
Employees who work in patient care buildings or have patient-facing responsibilities must receive an annual influenza vaccine.

Nice To Haves

Pennsylvania Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW).
Pennsylvania Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).
Pennsylvania Licensed Social Worker (LSW).
Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).

Responsibilities

Serve as the primary behavior therapist for assigned patients by developing and implementing treatment interventions.
Conduct functional behavioral assessments and track patient target behaviors.
Provide psychoeducational, social, and emotional skills training, and psychotherapy if licensed.
Coordinate daily treatment room operations, including schedules, staff coverage, and activities.
Supervise and guide Behavior Specialists and Assistants in implementing protocols and activities.
Train, orient, and mentor new behavior team staff.
Ensure accurate and timely patient documentation and compliance with policies and regulations.
Maintain a safe therapeutic environment and implement non-violent crisis interventions when needed.
Collaborate with leadership to improve program performance and efficiency.
Participate in program development, research, and staff professional development activities.