Behavior Management Specialist

Job DetailsJob Location: Administration Office - St Petersburg, FL 33709Position Type: Full TimeSalary Range: $23.00 - $23.00 HourlyPosition Summary The Behavior Specialist supports children, families, and staff by promoting positive behavior, social emotional development, and successful participation in childcare programs. This position provides observation, assessment, coaching, training, and intervention planning for children who demonstrate challenging behaviors or require additional support. The Behavior Specialist works collaboratively with families, teachers, administrators, and community partners to create inclusive learning environments that meet the needs of all children.     Essential Duties and Responsibilities Child Support and Assessment Observe children in classroom and program settings. Identify behavioral, emotional, developmental, and environmental factors affecting a child's success. Conduct functional behavior assessments and develop behavior support plans. Monitor child progress and adjust interventions based on outcomes. Document observations, interventions, and recommendations in accordance with agency standards. Support successful transitions between classrooms and programs. Staff Support and Coaching Provide coaching and consultation to teachers and program staff. Model positive behavior supports strategies in classroom settings. Assist staff in implementing behavior intervention plans with fidelity. Promote developmentally appropriate practices and trauma informed approaches. Support classroom management and social emotional learning initiatives. Conduct training sessions for staff on behavior management, de-escalation techniques, and child development. Family Engagement Partner with families to understand child strengths, needs, and concerns. Provide guidance and education on positive parenting and behavior support strategies. Facilitate meetings with families to discuss interventions and progress. Connect families to community resources and specialized services when appropriate. Maintain respectful and culturally responsive communication with families. Collaboration and Program Support Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings. Assist leadership in developing policies and procedures related to behavioral health and inclusion. Support agency efforts to reduce suspensions and expulsions. Analyze behavior trends and recommend program improvements. QualificationsQualifications Education Bachelor's degree in Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, Child Development, Early Childhood Education, Special Education, Behavior Analysis, or a related field required. Experience Minimum of two years of experience working with children in early childhood or school age settings. Experience supporting children with behavioral, emotional, developmental, or trauma related needs. Experience providing staff coaching and family consultation preferred. Knowledge and Skills Strong understanding of child development and social emotional development. Knowledge of positive behavior support practices. Understanding of trauma informed care principles. Ability to conduct observations and behavioral assessments. Excellent communication and relationship building skills. Strong organizational and documentation skills. Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries. Proficiency with Microsoft Office and electronic documentation systems. Physical Requirements Ability to move throughout classrooms and program sites. Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, and kneel for extended periods. Ability to occasionally lift up to 30 pounds. Ability to participate in classroom activities and interact directly with children. Work Environment Travel between program locations may be required. Regular interaction with children, families, staff, and community partners. Combination of office, classroom, and program visit settings. Performance Indicators Reduction in challenging behaviors among supported children. Increased staff confidence and implementation of behavior support strategies. Positive family engagement and satisfaction. Timely completion of assessments, documentation, and intervention plans. Improved child participation, social skills, and program retention.