Behavior Support Assistant

• Forbes names Mesa Public Schools in their list of Best Employers in Arizona for multiple years.

• East Valley Tribune names Mesa Public Schools as Best Place to Work in East Valley for multiple years.

Job Summary:

The Behavior Support Assistant will use applied behavior analysis to provide behavior support for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. They will implement learning programs (communication, self-help, play skills) under the supervision of Board Certified Behavior Analysts and the Coordinator of Specialized Programs, collect data on target behaviors, and meet with supervisors regularly. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Implement learning programs (communication, self-help, and play skills) as written and instructed by the BCBA
• Implement positive behavior intervention plans for students who display challenging behaviors, including verbal and physical aggression
• Gather behavioral data to track progress in reaching behavioral objectives identified in the behavior plan and periodically modify the plan, under the supervision of the BCBA, to adapt to the child's response to the intervention.
• Respond to problem behaviors according to the student’s positive behavior intervention plan and district crisis intervention policy
• Perform and provide support tasks following district procedures as required based on student needs, including but not limited to:
• Behavior management techniques where elopement behavior both on and off campus happens on a regular basis
• District-identified behavior management strategies (A.S.P.E.N.)
• Physical interventions to remediate severe emotional and behavior dysregulation when the student presents as a danger to self or others
• Accompany students as they transition across campus
• Monitor individual and/or small student groups in the classroom and/or on the playground to maintain a safe and positive learning environment; facilitate social peer interactions
• Maintain classroom and student equipment to ensure a safe environment
• Model professional, safe, responsible, and respectful behavior
• Participate in various meetings to share information and/or improve one’s skills and/or knowledge
• Regular and on-time attendance required
• Perform other related duties, as assigned, to ensure the efficient and effective functioning of the work unit
• Assist other personnel as may be required to support them in the completion of their work activities 

Required Qualifications: 

• High School Diploma 

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working with students with significant emotional and behavioral disabilities in a school setting.
• Experience in applying behavior intervention techniques and crisis management. 

Skills & Competencies:

• Ability and willingness to work with special education students who may require specialized instruction to meet academic, social, and behavioral goals
• Ability to work well with students, staff, and parents, good verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work well in stressful situations
• Computer proficiency to include the use of basic software applications (Word, Excel, etc.)
• Ability to operate standard office equipment
• Ability to organize and prioritize and to follow classroom guidelines as put forth by the supervisor 
• Handling crisis situations with calmness and professionalism.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously. 

Work Environment & Physical Requirements:

• Spends significant time in classrooms, hallways, and other areas monitoring and supporting students
• Frequent face-to-face interactions with students, educators, and families
• May encounter high-stress scenarios, including managing behavioral crises or de-escalating conflicts
• May lift, pull, push or carry
• May stand for a prolonged period
• May move lightweight furniture
• May be exposed to outdoor elements
• May require strength to push/pull 30-35 lbs.
• May require physical intervention for students experiencing behavioral difficulties
• Physical demands may require assistance from other personnel 

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement: 

Mesa Public Schools is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws regarding equal employment opportunity and anti-discrimination. The District strictly prohibits and does not tolerate discrimination against employees, applicants, or any other covered persons because of race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, ethnicity, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), age, physical or mental disability, citizenship, past, current, or prospective service in the uniformed services, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.

Applicants and employees may contact Human Resources to request reasonable accommodations needed to perform the essential functions of this position.