Hybrid Behavioral Specialist – Student Behavior Intervention & Support Analyst for Helena Public Schools (Remote & On‑Site)

Why Join Helena Public Schools?

Helena Public Schools (HPS) isn’t just a district—it’s a thriving educational community that serves more than 8,000 students across 18 vibrant campuses in the heart of Montana’s capital. Our mission is bold and clear: to foster dynamic educational experiences that prepare every learner for life beyond school walls. We believe that every student deserves a safe, supportive, and stimulating environment, and that starts with a dedicated team of professionals who champion positive behavior, inclusive practices, and evidence‑based interventions.

As a Hybrid Behavioral Specialist, you will be at the forefront of this mission, partnering with teachers, administrators, families, and community partners to shape the behavioral climate of our schools. You will enjoy the flexibility of a hybrid work model that blends the collaborative energy of on‑site team meetings with the focus and convenience of remote work from home.

Position Overview

We are seeking a passionate, analytical, and compassionate Behavioral Specialist to join our Student Services team. In this role, you will design, implement, and monitor behavior intervention plans, conduct functional behavior assessments (FBAs), and serve as a trusted resource for educators dealing with complex or severe student behaviors. Working a standard 7‑hour school day during the regular academic calendar, you will have the opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of students, teachers, and families throughout the district.

Key Responsibilities

• Behavioral Assessment & Planning: Conduct comprehensive functional behavior assessments (FBAs) for students exhibiting challenging or severe behaviors, ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations.
• Intervention Development: Develop individualized behavior intervention plans (BIPs) that are data‑driven, culturally responsive, and aligned with each student’s unique strengths and needs.
• Collaboration & Consultation: Partner with classroom teachers, special‑education staff, counselors, and administrators to integrate behavior strategies into daily instruction and school routines.
• Team Participation: Serve as an active member of multi‑disciplinary behavior teams, providing expertise, coaching, and ongoing support for plan implementation.
• Data Collection & Analysis: Systematically collect, interpret, and report behavioral data to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions and make evidence‑based adjustments.
• Professional Development: Deliver workshops, training sessions, and coaching to staff on best practices in behavior management, positive reinforcement, and trauma‑informed approaches.
• Resource Development: Create and maintain a repository of evidence‑based resources, toolkits, and instructional materials that educators can readily access.
• Compliance & Documentation: Ensure all behavioral documentation meets district, state, and federal guidelines, including IEPs, 504 plans, and documentation for the Montana Department of Education.
• Travel & Site Support: Visit multiple school sites across the district as needed to provide on‑site consultation, observe classroom practices, and support staff implementation of behavior plans.
• Community Engagement: Build partnerships with families, community agencies, and mental‑health providers to create a cohesive support network for students.

Essential Qualifications

We are looking for candidates who bring a blend of formal education, hands‑on experience, and a genuine dedication to student well‑being. The following qualifications are required:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Education, Special Education, School Psychology, or a closely related field.
• Teaching Certification: Valid Montana Teaching Certificate with an endorsement in Elementary Education (required). An endorsement in Special Education is highly preferred.
• Experience: Minimum of three (3) years of professional experience working with students who have developmental or behavioral needs, whether in a classroom, specialty program, or related service setting.
• Professional Certification (Preferred): Board‑Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification completed or actively in progress.
• Background Check: Successful completion of all pre‑employment screenings, including background and fingerprint checks, as mandated by district policy.

Preferred (But Not Mandatory) Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Special Education, Applied Behavior Analysis, School Counseling, or related discipline.
• Experience with Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) frameworks.
• Familiarity with data‑driven decision‑making tools such as School‑Wide Integrated Framework (SWIFT) or similar platforms.
• Professional development experience delivering training to large educator audiences.
• Knowledge of trauma‑informed practices and culturally responsive pedagogy.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively across multiple school sites and with diverse stakeholder groups.

Core Skills & Competencies for Success

Beyond formal qualifications, the ideal candidate will exhibit the following attributes:

• Analytical Thinking: Ability to dissect complex behavioral data, identify patterns, and formulate actionable strategies.
• Empathy & Emotional Intelligence: Sensitivity to the social‑emotional needs of students, families, and staff members.
• Effective Communication: Clear, concise, and respectful written and verbal communication tailored to varied audiences (students, parents, teachers, administrators).
• Collaboration: Strong team‑player mindset with experience facilitating interdisciplinary meetings and building consensus.
• Flexibility & Adaptability: Comfort navigating shifting priorities, school schedules, and an evolving educational landscape.
• Organizational Mastery: Skill in managing caseloads, documentation, and deadlines while maintaining high standards of quality.
• Technology Proficiency: Familiarity with school information systems, data collection software, and virtual meeting platforms (e.g., Google Workspace, Microsoft Teams).

Career Growth & Professional Development Opportunities

Helena Public Schools is committed to nurturing the professional trajectories of all staff members. As a Behavioral Specialist, you will have access to a robust suite of growth avenues, including:

• Continuing Education Stipends: Financial support for courses, workshops, and certification renewals that align with your career goals.
• Mentorship Programs: Pairing with senior BCBA professionals and district leaders to accelerate skill development and leadership capacity.
Leadership Pathways: Opportunities to move into senior specialist, department head, or district‑wide policy advisory roles as you demonstrate expertise and impact.
• Conference Attendance: Funding to present at regional, state, or national conferences focused on behavior analysis, special education, and inclusive practices.
• Cross‑Functional Projects: Involvement in district‑wide initiatives such as PBIS rollout, mental health integration, and equity‑focused programming.

Work Environment & Culture

At HPS, we celebrate a culture of inclusivity, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Here’s what you can expect:

• Hybrid Flexibility: Split your week between on‑site visits to schools (for direct consultation) and remote work from the comfort of your home, empowering work‑life balance.
• Supportive Leadership: Administrators who value your expertise, provide clear expectations, and champion your professional voice.
• Collaborative Team Spirit: A close‑knit community of educators, counselors, and specialists who share best practices and celebrate each other's successes.
• Student‑Centered Focus: A shared commitment to fostering safe, respectful, and nurturing learning environments for every student.
• Diversity & Equity: An environment that respects and honors the diverse cultural backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives of the district’s families.
• Well‑Being Resources: Access to employee assistance programs, wellness initiatives, and mental‑health supports to sustain personal resilience.

Compensation, Perks & Benefits

Helena Public Schools offers a competitive salary structure, starting at $41,615 per year (prorated based on a 187‑day school year), with adjustments according to education level, certifications, and relevant experience. In addition, successful candidates enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, which typically includes:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage with multiple plan options.
• Retirement savings plan (e.g., Montana State Employees’ Retirement System) with employer matching contributions.
• Generous paid leave: vacation, sick days, and professional development days.
• Family‑friendly policies, including parental leave and flexible scheduling.
• Tuition assistance for continuing education and certification upgrades.
• Employee wellness programs, gym membership discounts, and on‑site health initiatives.
• Access to district‑wide resources such as library databases, research journals, and technology tools.

Application Process & Next Steps

We value enthusiasm, a growth mindset, and a collaborative spirit. If you are ready to champion positive behavioral change and support the academic success of our students, we invite you to apply today.

How to Apply:

1. Visit the Helena Public Schools online application portal.
2. Submit a tailored cover letter outlining your experience with behavior analysis, your vision for supporting students, and why you are excited to join HPS.
3. Upload three professional references who can speak to your expertise and collaborative approach.
4. Complete any additional required forms and attestations.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and the position will remain open until filled. Should you have any questions, please email the Human Resources Office at [email protected] or call (406) 324‑2012.

Equal Opportunity & Inclusion Statement

Helena Public Schools is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment where every employee, student, and family feels respected and valued. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, national origin, genetic information, sex, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, military status, citizenship, disability, or any other protected characteristic. Accommodations are available upon request for candidates with disabilities throughout the hiring process.

Ready to Make a Difference?

If you are driven by a passion for fostering positive behavior, empowering educators, and cultivating thriving learning communities, we encourage you to submit your application today. Join Helena Public Schools and become part of a legacy of excellence, compassion, and continuous growth.

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