Behavioral Specialist – Early Learning and School-Aged Childcare

(New hires receive a sign-on bonus of $500 (before taxes) in their first paycheck and an additional $1000 when they complete 6 months of employment)

Job Type: Full-time

Who We Are: East Boston Social Centers is a multi-service agency and community center that cultivates community, belonging, and joy. Founded in 1918 to welcome and support immigrant families, East Boston Social Centers continues to proudly embrace “welcome” in all we do. Our core services range across educational, social, and recreational programs to support the diverse community of East Boston and our neighbors of all ages. For over a century, our programs and services have welcomed neighbors of all ages, interests, and backgrounds through our doors.

"When all give, all gain."  This is so much more than a motto at East Boston Social Centers. We seek to ensure all have an opportunity to give and to gain, and recognize the critical importance of being a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace and organization, where all belong.  We actively seek and encourage a diverse and inclusive workforce that is reflective of our communities. We are strengthened by this vitality and wealth of life experiences. If you are encouraged by an opportunity to do your best work in an environment where your contributions are valued, come join us.  

Job Description: As a Behavioral Specialist, you will focus on the quality of relationships between caregivers (including educators) and children during the critical years of birth to eight years. The Behavioral Specialist’s primary goal is to improve educational, developmental, and mental health outcomes for children by considering all of their relationships and environments. The specialist should prioritize equity and understand the impact of racism, socioeconomic status, education, ethnicity, and culture on child development and early childcare systems. Additionally, the specialist will assess the family and child’s needs, collaborate with relevant parties, and evaluate development to connect the child with valuable resources.

Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and implement individualized behavior management plans
• Conduct assessments and observations to identify behavioral needs
• Support the ongoing partnership with the Grantor (Neighborhood Villages) as East Boston Social Centers representative in Neighborhood Villages’ evaluation of programs.
• Collaborate with teachers, administrators, and other staff to support children’s development
• When appropriate, engage in weekly check-ins with caregivers to discuss concerns, observations, and needs
• Visit all EBSC programs weekly
• Provide direct intervention and support to children with behavioral needs
• Lead training sessions for staff on behavior management techniques
• Maintain detailed records of interventions and progress
• Participate in team meetings and contribute to overall program development
• Duties may require standing and walking, sitting for long periods of time, reaching, and lightweight to moderate lifting.
• Perform other related duties as assigned by childcare Directors.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Education, Social Work, or related field (Master’s preferred)
• 2-3 years of experience working with children in early learning or school-aged setting
• Endorsed or willing to be by MassAIMH and Circle of Security (COS) trained
• Strong understanding of child development and behavior management strategies
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment
• Patience, empathy, and genuine passion for working with children
• Fluency in English/Spanish preferred