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Behavior Support Specialist - Early Childhood Education Program

Albany, NY (http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Albany+NY+USA+12206) • Early Childhood Education

Job Type

Full-time

Description

Are you passionate about playing a vital role in promoting the social-emotional well-being of young children in collaboration with educators and families?

ACAP is seeking a Behavior Support Specialist to support its early childhood education centers throughout Albany County, New York.

At ACAP, we’ve been empowering individuals and families by expanding opportunities and breaking down barriers to success for nearly 60 years. We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Behavior Support Specialist to join our Early Childhood Education Program. In this role, you will play a crucial part in supporting the social-emotional and behavioral development of young children by observing behaviors, creating intervention plans, and collaborating with staff to foster welcoming, trauma-informed classroom environments.

We welcome applicants who are passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of young children and their families. Join us in creating a supportive and enriching educational experience!

Pay starts at $30.30 per hour; Monday – Friday; 37.5 hours per week, 44 weeks per year

Benefits:

Paid Time Off Benefits include Sick and Personal Leave, 12 paid holidays, 403(b) with employer contribution; Insurance Benefits: Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance, Employer-paid Life/AD&D Insurance, Short-term/Long-term Disability Insurance; Additional Benefits: Tuition Assistance, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and Opportunity for Advancement!

Qualifications:

+ Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Psychology, Social Work, or a related field, with at least 2 years of relevant experience. An associate's degree with at least 4 years of relevant experience will be considered.

+ A current certification in the Pyramid Model is required; this can be obtained after hire.

+ Experience working with young children in an educational or therapeutic setting. Candidates should demonstrate experience supporting children with diverse needs, including those with autism, ADHD, and other developmental or emotional challenges.

+ Strong understanding of child development, social-emotional learning, and behavior management techniques.

+ A strong foundation in behavior management strategies, trauma-informed care, positive reinforcement, and de-escalation techniques is highly desirable.

+ Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with children, families, and staff.

+ Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.

+ Ability to work both one-on-one and in small groups, and a proactive, flexible approach are essential to success in this role.

+ Commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive atmosphere for all children.

+ Bilingual or multilingual abilities are a plus; a valid driver’s license may be required.

Key Responsibilities:

+ Work in collaboration with teaching staff, supervisors, and coordinators to support positive teacher-child interactions and a classroom environment to promote each child’s cognitive, social, and emotional growth.

+ Conduct classroom observations and collect data on children’s behaviors to inform the writing and implementation of behavior plans, develop behavioral intervention plans, and/or make appropriate referrals to outside community agencies, as needed.

+ Provide hands-on training and support to classroom staff by modeling effective strategies, offering feedback, and promoting consistent, developmentally appropriate behavior management practices.

+ Participate in regular meetings with the Family Support Specialist staff and other team members as needed to exchange information pertinent to the child and their family.

+ Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of intervention plans, making adjustments as necessary.

ABOUT ALBANY COMMUNITY ACTION PARTNERSHIP

Be a part of an organization that values the growth of both its students and its staff. Albany Community Action Partnership (ACAP) is a community action agency serving individuals and families living in poverty for nearly 60 years. Our services are administered through three departments: Career and Community Services, Early Childhood Education, and Energy Services. Each year, ACAP fosters opportunities for self-empowerment and enrichment in the lives of thousands of young children and families. Our mission is to partner with families and communities to expand opportunities and build stronger networks to foster upward economic mobility.

No phone calls, please.We are proud to be an EEO/AA employer M/F/D/V. We maintain a drug-free workplace.

Salary Description

Starting at $30.30 per hour