What are the responsibilities and job description for the Behavior Support Specialist position at Achieva?
Employment Type: [Full time/Exempt]
Pay Rate: $28.25-$30.75
Work Schedule: Monday -Friday
Location: Allegheny County with local Travel Required
Sign-On Bonus: $2,000
Make a Meaningful Impact
This position plays a vital role in empowering people with disabilities to achieve greater independence, reach their personal goals, and actively participate in their communities. As a Behavioral Support Professional, you will provide compassionate, person-centered support that promotes positive behavioral outcomes, enhances quality of life, and reflects Achieva's commitment to inclusion, dignity, and respect. If you are passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of others and want to be part of a mission-driven team, we encourage you to apply.
About Achieva
For over 70 years, Achieva has been committed to supporting and including people with disabilities and their families. We envision a community where everyone leads a life of personal significance. Achieva provides personalized services and opportunities that respect each person's unique aspirations.
Position Summary
Assesses, develops, and monitors individualized behavior support plans for adults with intellectual disabilities using evidence-based and person-centered practices. In addition, collaborates with the complex care team and caregivers to ensure consistent implementation of strategies that promote skill development, enhance well being, quality of life, and support health and safety.
Key Responsibilities
- Conducting Functional Behavior Assessments (FBA) to understand the needs of people with Intellectual Disabilities who exhibit challenging behaviors.
- Developing and implementing Positive Behavior Support Plans, and when necessary Restrictive Procedure Plans tailored to the unique needs of each person.
- Collecting data systematically to track the progress and effectiveness of behavior support interventions.
- Monitoring the effectiveness of behavior support interventions and making necessary adjustments as required.
- Collaborate closely with a multidisciplinary team to ensure coordinated care and support for individuals.
- Demonstrating excellent communication and organizational skills in all aspects of the role.
- Providing supervision and guidance to support staff, leveraging your expertise and leadership skills.
- Conducting risk assessments and crisis prevention planning to support health and safety.
- Providing direct observation in home and community settings to assess environmental and systemic factors impacting behavior.
- Ensuring least restrictive, trauma-informed, and person-centered practices are consistently utilized.
- Maintaining timely, accurate, and compliant clinical documentation.
- Ensuring all behavior support plans align with the Individual.
- Follow Individual Support Plan (ISP) and applicable state regulations.
- Participating in ongoing professional development to maintain knowledge of evidence-based behavioral practices and applicable regulatory requirements.
- Perform additional duties as assigned
Why Join Achieva?
Meaningful Work: Make a difference in the lives of people with disabilities and their families.
Collaborative Culture: Join a mission-driven organization that values teamwork, inclusion, and professional growth.
Comprehensive Benefits Include:
- Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance with low employee contributions
- Company-Paid Life, AD&D, and Long-Term Disability Insurance
- 403(b) Retirement Plan with employer contributions after one year
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Generous Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays
- Professional development and training opportunities
Our Commitment to inclusion
Achieva advocates with, empowers, and supports people with disabilities and their families throughout their lives.
Achieva is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer (EOE). All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Achieva is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for people with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request a reasonable accommodation, contact our Human Resources Department at 412-995-5000 ext.650, or email jobs@achieva.info.
Qualifications:
Required Education/Experience
- A Master’s Degree or higher in psychology, special education, counseling, social work, education, applied behavior analysis, gerontology, or a related human services field; or A Bachelor’s Degree in a related field and documented professional experience working under the supervision of a qualified behavioral professional.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Successful completion of training in functional behavioral assessments and positive behavioral support.
- Ability to work a flexible schedule to accommodate the needs of the people receiving support and the organization.
- Possess a valid PA driver's license and reliable vehicle for local travel.
- Passion for serving people with Intellectual Disabilities and a commitment to their well-being.
Licenses/Certifications
- Ability to obtain satisfactory Act 33/34 and FBI clearances
- Completion of ODP Course "FBA and Positive Approaches"
Salary : $28 - $31