Behavior Intervention Specialist (Level 1)

Position Overview

The Behavior Intervention Specialist, Level 1 will design, implement and monitor the Behavior Management Programs, Instructional Goals and Valued Outcomes for all individuals using the Positive Approaches Paradigm. This individual must be familiar with OPWDD and DOH regulations as they apply to the Intermediate Care Facility (ICF) and Independent Residence Alternative (IRA) and Community Services, such as Day Habilitation. The Behavior Specialist, Level 1, will have an assigned caseload of up to 35 individuals and will assist in coverage, as needed. Travel to units, IRAs, day programs and in the community is routine and required. Responsible for communication with and training the interdisciplinary team, outside providers, and family members. Responsible for timely and complete documentation.

Key Essential Functions

Behavioral Assessment & Planning

• Administer and interpret the clients' cognitive, social/motivational and adaptive living skills.
• 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 (e.g., ABA principles, PBS).
• Collaborate with Interdisciplinary teams IDT (clinicians, SDPs, families, care managers) to ensure consistency in behavioral interventions.
• Complete observations and training regarding behavior supports.

Intervention & Monitoring

• Interact with residential individuals daily.
• Train Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), families, and staff on behavior support strategies.
• Responsible for 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 case load 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 when deemed clinically appropriate.
• Assist in reducing restrictive interventions by promoting proactive, least-restrictive strategies.
• Become a SCIP-R trainer and provide SCP-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 (such as staff action plans and other if applicable).
• Compile paperwork and participate in Human Rights, team meetings, and Psych apts.

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, psychiatrics, 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/Trainings Required (Level 1 BIS, 633.16(b)(32))

• A master's degree from a program in a clinical or treatment field of psychology, social worker, school psychology, or applied psychology as it relates to human development and clinical interventions, and documented training in assessment techniques and behavior support plan development, OR
• A national board certification in behavior analysis (BACB), OR
• A NYS license as a Behavior Analysis (LBA), OR
• A master's degree in behavior analysis or a field closely related to clinical or community psychology that is approved by OPWDD, OR
• A 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.
• Excellent data analysis and presentation skills and proficiency with relevant software.
• Ability to use trackers.

Experience Required / Language Preference

• At least three years of experience: 1. working directly with individuals with developmental disabilities, including the development, implementation, and monitoring of behavior support plans; AND/OR 2. providing supervision and training to other in the implementation of behavior support plans; OR 3. have been employed as a Level 2 BIS, at the master's degree level, for three years.

Computer Skills Required

Strong computer skills are required. The ability to use Microsoft applications including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint are critical. The knowledge or ability to learn software programs including use of data and trends to inform clinical practice.

Work Environment/Physical Effort

• Settings: OPWDD ICF, group homes and day habilitation programs.
• The position requires the ability to travel from site to site to make program visits. There is walking in the residential programs up and down stairs and at times the ability to lift a social service chart/field.
• Travel: it may require travel throughout Brooklyn.
• BIS must work in person 5 days a week.
• Typical schedule is active business hours of Monday-Friday 9am-5pm, however there is ability for flex schedule based on the needs of the program and the caseload with one early start day and one late day to accommodate breakfast and dinner observations.
• On occasion this role may require on-call availability for behavioral emergencies.
• Must pass NYS OPWDD background checks and Justice Center clearance.