Behavior Specialist

Behavior Specialist

Location: Champaign IL
Organization: ExcelPrep Schools

Mission-driven note ExcelPrep 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 ExcelPrep 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 ExcelPrep

• Programs for ages 313:
  • PreK8 Academic Program: Direct Instruction and Precision Teaching for core academics (reading writing math) in a structured data-driven environment.
  • Clinical ABA Program (Ages 313): 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 MondayFriday 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 ExcelPreps 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

• BCBA or BCaBA certification or eligibility to sit for certification; or equivalent demonstrable ABA expertise with plan to obtain BCBA/BCaBA credential.

• Minimum 23 years of relevant clinical experience supporting neurodiverse children (ages 313) 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:

• Or apply via our careers portal on the ExcelPrep website.

Equal Opportunity Employer

ExcelPrep is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Required Experience:

IC