The Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) is responsible for using the science of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to support individuals with disabilities in directing their own lives as valued members of the community. The BCBA will conduct functional behavior assessments, including analogue functional analyses, descriptive analyses, preference assessments, skills assessments, and other experimentally validated assessments. The BCBA will develop behavior support programming targeted at both problem behavior reduction and skills acquisition. The BCBA will model program implementation, train caregivers to implement recommended programming with fluency, and monitor treatment fidelity. The BCBA will design data collection systems based on parameters of target behaviors and contextual fit, and graph and analyze program data regularly. The BCBA will frequently use crisis prevention and crisis intervention skills and must be able to maintain composure and provide coaching to caregivers during crisis situations. The BCBA will work with individuals of all ages with various diagnoses and skill levels.

The BCBA must have excellent analytical, critical thinking, time management, and communication skills. The BCBA must have extensive knowledge on applying the principles of behavior in clinical, residential, and educational settings. The BCBA must be able to lead by example and have highly developed reasoning and interpersonal skills. The BCBA must be able to make data-based and researched-based recommendations while working as part of an interdisciplinary team. The BCBA must be responsive to team feedback and able to modify programming based on data and contextual fit. The BCBA must be capable of working independently, but skilled at frequently communicating with supervisors and other team members.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Perform functional behavior assessments, including multiple individualized and experimentally validated assessment procedures. 

Develop objective behavior definitions and goals.

Collect observational data on client behavior, caregiver behaviors, and environmental variables.

Develop data collection systems, and train caregivers to collect accurate data.

Develop written behavior supports plans, skills acquisition programming, and treatment integrity checklists.

Construct graphs using Microsoft Excel. Analyze data and utilize data-based decision-making in treatment.

Distribute graphs and narrative summaries to the teams of all individuals served at least monthly.

Implement and train caregivers to implement all recommended programming. Monitor the accuracy with which caregivers implement programming and provide frequent feedback caregivers.

Modify programming based on client changes, direct observation, contextual fit, team feedback, and behavioral data.

Develop plans for fading contrived supports and services, and plan for generalization.

Provide general staff training on applied behavior analysis and positive behavior supports.

Peer-review programming written by other agency BCBAs and Applied Behavior Analysis Specialists.

Participate in team meetings and review meetings for assigned clients, working effectively with client teams, including other professionals, management, family members, service coordinators, and direct staff members.

Actively continue education by reading behavior analytic literature and obtaining CEUs.

Provide supervision to Applied Behavior Analysis Specialists, Registered Behavior Technicians, and practicum students as assigned and according to the Behavior Analyst Certification Board’s standards.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Ability to respectfully work with persons with intellectual disabilities and other developmental disabilities.

Ability to work varied and flexible hours and to accept and adapt to changes in assignments, methods, policies, etc.

Ability to work independently and self-monitor performance data.

Considerable knowledge of current ABA research, particularly in relation to individuals with developmental disabilities.

Considerable knowledge of the principles of supervision and training for ABA programming.

Ability to individualize assessments and programming based on the needs of individuals served and caregivers.

Considerable knowledge of community-based programs of all disciplines for the care and the treatment of individuals with intellectual and other developmental disabilities

Ability to train, supervise, and effectively provide feedback to a wide variety of caregivers. Ability to model all programming recommendations for caregivers.

Ability to objectively measure and monitor caregiver performance. 

Ability to collect and analyze data when making treatment decisions, and to evaluate progress objectively.

Ability to develop effective and practical ABA programming.

Ability to communicate effectively in oral and written forms. Fluency with Microsoft Office.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with clients served, families served, direct staff members, management, other professionals, and any other team members involved in client care. 

Knowledge of and experience with all areas of the Behavior Analyst Certification Board’s current task list.

Ability to comply with all standards, rules, and statutes set by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, the Missouri Behavior Analyst Advisory Board, and the Missouri Department of Mental Health.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING QUALIFICATIONS

One year of professional experience in working with individuals with developmental disabilities and/or psychiatric disorders. Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Masters Degree with a specialization in one of the following: behavior analysis, education, or psychology. Current Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification and Missouri Behavior Analyst licensure (LBA) in good standing.