Behavior Intervention Specialist

Salary Range $66,300.00 - $66,300.00 Salary/year

Level Experienced

Position Type Full Time

Job Shift Day

Education Level Graduate Degree

Description

Behavioral Intervention Specialist

STATEMENT OF DUTIES

The Behavioral Intervention Specialist (BIS) is responsible for developing, implementing, and monitoring person-centered Behavior Support Plans (BSPs) and strategies for individuals receiving services across mental health (OMH) and OPWDD programs. Operating within a Positive Behavioral Supports (PBS) framework, the BIS collaborates with interdisciplinary teams to optimize individual independence, manage human rights compliance, and minimize the use of restrictive interventions.

GENERAL JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assessments: Conduct person-centered Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs) to identify behavioral triggers, baseline functions, and environmental factors. Additional assessments, such as Home/Community Alone Assessments, Consent Assessments, Key Assessments, and others as requested.

• Plan Development: Author, monitor, and revise individualized Behavior Support Plans (BSPs) ensuring strict adherence to 14 NYCRR Parts 633 and 635 regulations.

• Clinical Supervision Compliance: Coordinate plan reviews with the LCSW when incorporating restrictive/intrusive interventions or rights limitations.

• Staff Training: Facilitate comprehensive instruction for Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) and management teams on plan methodologies, proactive strategies, and data collection tools.

• Crisis Infrastructure: Provide hands-on guidance during behavioral crises utilizing proactive ABA strategies and, when necessary, agency-approved SCIP-R crisis intervention competencies.

• Governance Committees: Actively prepare documentation for and present plans to the Human Rights Committee (HRC) and Informed Consent / Incident Review Committees (IRC) as well as High Risk, Admissions, Department Meetings and other committees as required.

• Interdisciplinary Teamwork: Collaborate alongside Care Managers, Residential Managers, Nursing staff, and Psychiatrists/Providers to coordinate holistic clinical outcomes.

• Medicaid Documentation: Maintain real-time compliance with daily clinical tracking, progress notes, and supporting records in line with Medicaid and state auditing mandates.

• On-Site Monitoring: Regularly visit group homes and/or day programs to observe DSP implementation, audit behavior data accuracy, and adjust plans accordingly.

• Safeguard Supports: Provide safeguards, including emotional support and diminution as requested as part of allegation protections. Secure psychological recommendations as part of investigations.

• Additional Duties: As assigned.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Regulatory Knowledge: Deep understanding of NYS OPWDD regulations, Person-Centered Planning, and Trauma-Informed Care.

• Analytical Skills: High competency in behavioral data collection, graphical trend analysis, and evidence-based tracking methods.

• Crisis Control: Documented capability to manage crisis situations calmly and physically execute approved restrictive interventions if trained and certified.

• Systems Proficiency: Capability to manage electronic health records (EHR) systems alongside standard business application suites.

• On-Call Responsibilities: May be required to participate in on-call or after-hours behavioral consultation and crisis support based on program needs, departmental coverage, and assignment.

• Cross-Program Support: BIS staff may have a primary program assignment but remain part of the agency-wide Behavioral Services team and may provide cross-program support as needed.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Education: Master’s degree from a program in a clinical or treatment field of psychology, social work, school psychology, applied behavior analysis (ABA), or mental health counseling.

• Experience: A minimum of three (3) years of direct experience working with individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities AND/OR mental health diagnoses, including documented experience in FBA administration and BSP formulation.

• Certifications: National Board Certification in Behavior Analysis (BCBA), NYS License as a Behavior Analyst (LBA), or an approved clinical Master's degree satisfying the NYS 633.16(b)(32) Level 1 BIS requirements.

• Vetting Clearances: Must successfully pass background verifications via the NYS Child Abuse Registry, Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs, and criminal fingerprinting databases.

• Physical Criteria: Valid NYS Driver’s License with a clean operating record. Ability to travel across program regional environments and physically stand, lift up to 50 lbs., or intervene during crisis events