Behavior Intervention Specialist; Level 1

Behavior Intervention Specialist (Level
1)

For nearly 150 years, The Jewish Board has been delivering innovative, best‑in‑class mental and behavioral health services. We serve infants, children, teens, and adults, impacting over 45,000 New Yorkers each year.

Location
1358 56th St
Brooklyn, NY 11219, US

The Level 1 Behavior Intervention Specialist designs, implements, and monitors Behavior Management Programs, Instructional Goals, and Valued Outcomes for all individuals using the Positive Approaches Paradigm. The specialist must be familiar with OPWDD and DOH regulations as they apply to Intermediate Care Facility (ICF), Independent Residence Alternative (IRA), and Community Services such as Day Habilitation.

The specialist has an assigned caseload of up to 35 individuals, assists with coverage as needed, travels routinely to units, IRAs, day programs, and the community, and communicates with and trains the interdisciplinary team, outside providers, and family members. Documentation is and complete.

• Administer and interpret cognitive, social/motivational, and adaptive living skills assessments.
• Conduct Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs) to identify triggers, functions, and patterns of challenging behaviors.
• Develop Individualized Behavior Support Plans (BSPs) based on OPWDD regulations and best practices (ABA principles, PBS).
• Collaborate with Interdisciplinary Teams (IDT) to ensure consistency in behavioral interventions.
• Complete observations and training regarding behavior supports.

• Interact daily with residential individuals.
• Train Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), families, and staff on behavior support strategies.
• Maintain accurate data collection and summaries.
• Monitor and document the effectiveness of interventions through data collection and analysis.
• Adjust behavior plans as needed based on ongoing observations and progress reviews.
• Maintain a caseload of up to 35 individuals and provide coverage as needed.
Crisis Prevention & Management
• Implement SCIP‑R (Strategies for Crisis Intervention and Prevention – Revised) or other OPWDD approved crisis intervention techniques as clinically appropriate.
• Assist in reducing restrictive interventions by promoting proactive, least‑restrictive strategies.
• Become a SCIP‑R trainer and provide SCIP‑R training.
Compliance & Documentation
• Ensure compliance with OPWDD regulations, NYS Part 633/635, and agency policies.
• Maintain accurate records, including behavioral incidents, informational progress notes, and Medicaid billing documentation.
• Compile paperwork and participate in Human Rights, team meetings, and psychosocial appointments.
Collaboration & Advocacy
• Participate as an active member of the interdisciplinary team process.
• Attend Life Plan and Individualized Program Plan (IPP) meetings and Life Plan reviews to advocate for behavioral needs.
• Work with psychologists, psychiatrists, nursing, and clinical teams to coordinate care.
• Participate in all weekly, bi‑weekly meetings with the teams.
• Actively participate in OPWDD and DOH audits.
• Other duties as assigned.
Educational / Training Requirements (Level
1)
• Master’s degree in psychology, social work, school psychology, or applied psychology with documented training in assessment techniques and behavior support plan development, OR
• National board certification in behavior analysis (BACB), OR
• NYS license as a Behavior Analysis (LBA), OR
• Master’s degree in behavior analysis or a closely related field approved by OPWDD, OR
• NYS license in mental health counseling.
Core Competencies
• Familiarity with NYS OPWDD policies, HCBS Waiver services, and incident reporting.
• Strong data collection and analysis skills.
• Knowledge of ABA, PBS, and trauma‑informed care.
• Ability to train and mentor staff in behavioral techniques.
• Effective communication, problem‑solving, and teamwork skills.
• Proficiency with relevant software and data tracking.
• Ability to use trackers.
Experience Requirements / Language Preference
• At least three years of experience working directly with individuals with developmental disabilities, including development, implementation, and…