Behavior Specialist

Behavior Specialist Location: Champaign , IL Organization: Excel. Prep Schools Mission-driven note Excel. Prep is a mission-driven private program serving neurodiverse children through structured, research-based instruction. Our mission is simple: prioritize the academic and social success of neurodiverse learners. We deliver high-quality academic and therapeutic programming that supports meaningful learning outcomes.

Across Excel. Prep, we center: Direct Instruction and instructional design Precision Teaching and data-based decision making Behavior science research foundations Occupational Therapy as a prioritized therapy alongside ABA for sensory-motor development Our overarching goal is to provide a nurturing, academically focused learning environment where neurodiverse students develop strong academic foundations, cognitive-linguistic skills, and the confidence to succeed in school and beyond.

About Excel. Prep Programs for ages 3–13: PreK–8 Academic Program: Direct Instruction and Precision Teaching for core academics (reading, writing, math) in a structured, data-driven environment. Clinical ABA Program (Ages 3–13): Cognition-linguistically based ABA focusing on language, reasoning, executive functioning, social competence, and independence.

We emphasize: Direct Instruction and instructional design Precision Teaching and data-based decision making Behavior science research foundations Occupational Therapy as a prioritized therapy alongside ABA for sensory-motor development Position: Behavior Specialist Type Full-time On-site in Champaign, IL Schedule: Typically Monday–Friday, during school hours; some after-hours collaboration meetings as needed Reports To Clinical Programs Director / Senior Behavior Team Lead Position Summary The Behavior Specialist partners with our Clinical ABA team, teachers, OT, families, and school staff to design, implement, monitor, and optimize behavior-analytic programs for neurodiverse learners.

This role centers data-based decision making, functional assessment, and the development of effective interventions aligned with Excel. Prep’s mission and instructional framework.

Key Responsibilities

Conduct Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBA) and develop Behavior Intervention Plans (BIP) tailored to individual learners. Implement, monitor, and adjust ABA-based interventions (language, reasoning, executive functioning, social skills, independence) within both ABA and academic programming. Lead data collection and analysis (Precision Teaching methods, probe data, mastery criteria, trend lines) to inform progress and instructional decisions.

Collaborate with Occupational Therapy, Speech-Language Pathology, and classroom teachers to integrate sensory-motor supports and cognitive-linguistic strategies. Model and coach instructional strategies for direct instruction and precision teaching to staff and paraprofessionals. Provide direct on-site therapy sessions and supervise/coach RBTs or BCaBAs as needed.

Communicate progress and concerns to families; conduct regular progress updates, parent trainings, and team meetings. Ensure fidelity to program design, privacy, and ethical standards in accordance with state and national regulations. Contribute to program development by staying current with research in behavior science and implementing evidence-based practices.

Participate in ongoing professional development and supervision to support high-quality service delivery.

Qualifications

Required BCBA or BCaBA certification, or eligibility to sit for certification; or equivalent, demonstrable ABA expertise with plan to obtain BCBA/BCaBA credential. Minimum 2–3 years of relevant clinical experience supporting neurodiverse children (ages 3–13) in educational or clinical settings. Strong background in ABA, data collection and analysis, and behavior intervention planning.

Experience with Direct Instruction and Precision Teaching frameworks preferred. Excellent collaboration and communication skills; ability to work effectively with families, teachers, and multidisciplinary teams. Knowledge of sensory processing, occupational therapy principles, and their application to behavior and learning.

Bilingual abilities (e.g., Spanish or other languages) are a plus and welcomed. Preferred Experience with functional language development, executive functioning strategies, social skills training, and independence-building programs. Demonstrated ability to translate data into actionable instructional changes. Experience working in private school settings or clinical ABA programs for neurodiverse learners.

Work Environment & Benefits Dynamic, mission-driven team serving neurodiverse children in a private school/clinical ABA context. Collaborative, data-informed culture with a strong emphasis on professional development.

Benefits

may include health/dental/vision, retirement planning, and professional development allowances (details provided upon offer).

Compensation

Competitive salary commensurate with experience and credentials. Additional opportunities for bonus incentives based on program outcomes and contributions. Note: The exact salary range will be discussed during the interview process and reflected in the formal offer. How to Apply Submit your resume, cover letter, and a brief statement of your approach to behavior support for neurodiverse learners.

Include certification details (BCBA/BCaBA or eligibility), relevant transcripts, and contact information for references. Email: [email protected] Or apply via our careers portal on the Excel. Prep website. Equal Opportunity Employer Excel. Prep is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.