Behavior Intervention Specialist

Position Overview

Somerset County Public Schools is seeking qualified candidates to serve as a Behavior Specialist for the S.O.A.R. Alternative Learning Program, which supports students referred from all secondary schools. This is a full-time, 10-month position.

Preference will be given to candidates with Special Education or School Social Work experience.

Summary of Responsibilities

The Behavior Specialist provides behavioral intervention, coaching, monitoring, and data support to students enrolled in the alternative learning environment. The position supports student success, safety, and re-engagement, with a focus on returning students to their home schools.

Job Goal

To collaborate with Student Services and S.O.A.R. leadership to ensure a safe, structured, and supportive program that meets the behavioral, academic, and emotional needs of students.

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field

Preferred:

• Master’s degree in Special Education, Psychology, Counseling, or Social Work

Additional Preferred Experience/Skills:

• Three or more years of experience working with secondary students (middle/high school) in an educational or behavioral support setting

• Knowledge of behavioral intervention strategies and child/adolescent development

• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with students, families, and staff

• Demonstrated history of professional reliability, consistent attendance, and commitment to student success

• Ability to de-escalate and support students in crisis

• Strong organizational and data-monitoring skills

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The Behavior Specialist will:

• Provide daily behavioral support to students within the S.O.A.R. program.

• Conduct Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs) and develop Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs).

• Support staff in implementing and monitoring intervention plans for fidelity.

• Track, monitor, and analyze discipline and behavioral data, entering and updating information in PowerSchool and other district systems.

• Collaborate with the S.O.A.R. Administrator or designee to maintain a structured, supportive learning environment.

• Support the implementation of PBIS, restorative practices, trauma-informed strategies, and re-engagement supports.

• Respond to student crises; assist with de-escalation, safety planning, and re-engagement strategies.

• Participate in transition planning and re-entry meetings with home schools.

• Communicate regularly with parents/caregivers; provide outreach, education, and referrals.

• Assist with MTSS processes, attendance conferences, and student support team meetings.

• Provide supervision during transitions, in hallways, and in common areas as needed to ensure safety.

• Maintain required documentation and prepare reports for S.O.A.R. leadership.

• Maintain consistent, dependable attendance to ensure continuity of student services and program operations.

• Perform other duties as assigned by the S.O.A.R. Administrator or designee.

Additional Requirements

• Crisis intervention training (CPI/Handle With Care or similar crisis intervention training, or willingness to obtain)

• Trauma-informed practices

• FERPA/confidentiality training

• Must comply with SCPS policies regarding attendance, notice, and professional conduct.

• References may be contacted to confirm prior work performance, reliability, and attendance.

Physical Demands

The employee is regularly required to speak, listen, stand, walk, and use hands and fingers. The position requires the ability to move quickly between instructional areas and respond promptly to student needs. The employee must occasionally lift or move up to 25 pounds and may be required to assist students during crisis events. Vision requirements include close and distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Work Environment

Work is typically performed in a school setting with moderate noise. The position requires movement throughout instructional areas and may involve occasional exposure to mechanical equipment or moving parts. Reasonable accommodations will be provided as required.

Salary : $41,971 - $67,030