Behavior Specialist

About The Arc of Greater New Orleans

At The Arc of Greater New Orleans, we believe every person deserves the opportunity to live a meaningful, independent life. As part of our team, you'll help empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities while working alongside people who are passionate about making a difference.

Guided by our People First philosophy, we value compassion, inclusion, dignity, and respect in everything we do.

If you're looking for meaningful work with lasting impact, we'd love to meet you.

Summary

The Behavior Specialist provides individualized support to a participant attending The Arc of Greater New Orleans Day Habilitation Program. This position promotes independence, community inclusion, skill development, health, safety, and active participation in daily program activities. The Behavior Specialist serves as a positive role model and advocate while ensuring the participant receives person-centered support in a safe and respectful environment.

Essential Job Functions

• Provide individualized 1:1 support and supervision to an assigned participant throughout the program day.
• Implement individualized behavioral and support strategies outline in the participant's service plan and/or behavior support plan.
• Promote positive behaviors through redirection, encouragement, positive reinforcement, and consistent support.
• Assist the participant with developing independence, communication, social skills, and appropriate community behaviors.
• Support the participant with activities of daily living and personal needs as appropriate.
• Assist with transitions between activities, locations, and environments while maintaining the participant's safety.
• Accompany and support the participant during center-based activities, community outings, recreational activities, volunteer opportunities, and other program activities.
• Monitor the participant's behavior, safety, and overall well-being and report significant concerns or changes to supervisory staff.
• Collect and document relevant observations regarding behavior, participation, progress, and significant events in accordance with agency procedures.
• Complete required daily documentation accurately and timely.
• Utilize approved redirection and de-escalation techniques when behavioral concerns arise.
• Maintain the participant's dignity, privacy, rights, and confidentiality at all times.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors and members of the participant's support team regarding the participant's needs and progress.
• Follow all agency policies, procedures, safety requirements, and participants-specific guidelines.
• Maintain a professional, patient, and supportive relationship with the participant.
• Assist with maintaining a safe and organized program environment.
• Perform other duties related to individualized participant support as assigned.

Education and Experience Requirements

• Monday through Friday
• Daytime hours
• Full-Time and Part-Time opportunities available

Education and Experience Requirements

Required:

• Minimum 18 years of age.
• Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record.
• Ability to pass criminal background and required screenings.
• Ability to lift, bend, stand, walk, and provide physical assistance when needed.
• Reliable transportation.
• Ability to complete required agency and state trainings.

Preferred:

• High school diploma or GED.
• Experience working with individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities.
• Experience in human services, healthcare, education, recreation, or related fields.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Compassion and patience when supporting individuals with disabilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and follow directions.
• Good problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Ability to maintain accurate documentation.
• Commitment to person-centered services and community inclusion.

Working Conditions and Physical Demands

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, and lifting.
• Ability to accompany participants in community settings.
• Ability to safely assist participants with mobility and daily activities as needed.

Benefits

• Retention Bonus
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer match
• Medical, dental, and vision, etc.
• Employer-paid life insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Paid time off and paid holidays
• Professional development and training opportunities
• Mileage reimbursement for eligible business travel

Pay Rate: $17.00 an hour

Disclaimer:

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. This job description shall not constitute or be construed as a promise of employment or as a contract between the Arc of Greater New Orleans and any of its employees.

EEO Statement

The Arc of Greater New Orleans is an equal-opportunity employer committed to diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability-protected veteran status, or any other factor protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. Individuals who require reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act in order to participate in the search process should notify the Human Resources department.