Behavioral Support Specialist- Teaching Assistant

Help Children Build the Skills They Need to Thrive

Are you passionate about helping children develop the social-emotional skills they need to succeed? Families and Communities Rising, Inc. (FCR, Inc.) is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Teaching Assistant – Behavioral Support Specialist to provide individualized support to young children in our Head Start and Early Head Start classrooms throughout Durham and Orange Counties.

This position is ideal for professionals with experience in early childhood education, special education, behavioral support, child development, or related fields who are committed to helping every child reach their full potential. Working alongside teachers, families, and support staff, you will play a critical role in fostering positive behavior, building self-confidence, and creating a safe, nurturing learning environment where children can grow socially, emotionally, and academically.

What You'll Do

As a Teaching Assistant – Behavioral Support Specialist, you will:

• Support teachers in addressing and managing challenging behaviors within the classroom.

• Implement individualized Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) and behavior support strategies.

• Provide one-on-one and small-group support to children who need additional guidance.

• Use positive behavior support techniques to encourage appropriate behavior and healthy social interactions.

• Assist children in developing self-regulation, conflict resolution, emotional awareness, and social-emotional skills.

• Monitor, document, and communicate children's behavioral progress.

• Support classroom routines, transitions, and daily activities to promote consistency and engagement.

• Collaborate with teachers, specialists, and families to ensure children receive the support they need to thrive.

• Respond appropriately to behavioral incidents using de-escalation techniques and established safety protocols.

• Participate in ongoing training and professional development related to behavior management, trauma-informed care, and early childhood education.

What We're Looking For

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Psychology, Special Education, or a related field preferred.

• Experience working with young children in a classroom, childcare, educational, or behavioral support setting required.

• Experience supporting children with social-emotional or behavioral challenges preferred.

• Head Start or Early Head Start experience is a plus.

• Strong understanding of child development and positive behavior management practices.

• Ability to remain calm, patient, and supportive during challenging situations.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with children, families, and team members.

• Knowledge of trauma-informed practices and positive behavior support strategies preferred.

• CPR and First Aid certification or the ability to obtain certification upon hire.

• Additional training or experience in behavior management, special education, Exceptional Children (EC), or early childhood intervention is highly desirable.

Why Join FCR?

• Competitive Pay

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance

• Paid Time Off and Holidays

• Retirement Benefits

• Professional Development Opportunities

• Supportive Team Environment

• Meaningful Work That Impacts Children and Families Every Day

Join Our Team

Help children build the social-emotional skills they need to succeed in school and in life. Become part of a mission-driven organization dedicated to strengthening children, families, and communities.