Behavioral Therapist

Behavioral Therapist Opportunity

Northwestern Illinois Association (NIA) is a regional governmental agency that provides special education support to 68 school districts across Northwestern Illinois. Our mission is to partner with schools to meet the unique needs of students, and we empower our team with professional growth opportunities, comprehensive benefits, and a values-driven culture.

The ideal candidate will work 180 days per year for 7.5 hours daily and earn a competitive salary, depending on experience. As a Behavioral Therapist with NIA, you'll work across a variety of schools, engaging with diverse student populations to provide positive strategies for managing and improving challenging behaviors.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide behavior analysis services and interventions: Deliver direct behavioral interventions to students in accordance with their Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), addressing behavior concerns and skill deficits.
• Collaborate with educational teams: Work closely with teachers, administrators, and other specialists to develop and implement behavior intervention plans (BIPs) and strategies that support student progress.
• Maintain accurate records: Document all services, data collection, and progress related to behavior interventions, ensuring compliance with district and state regulations.
• Participate in IEP meetings: Provide expertise in behavior analysis, behavior management, and functional behavior assessments (FBA) to ensure appropriate accommodations and support for students.
• Engage in professional development: Stay current with best practices in behavior analysis, special education, and related fields by participating in ongoing training and professional development opportunities.

Benefits:

• Group Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance: Available for employees working 0.75 FTE or more, with PPO and HSA options.
• Defined-Benefit Pension Plans: As a local governmental agency, employees participate in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF), providing a stable, defined-benefit pension that ensures financial security in retirement.
• Additional Retirement Savings Options: NIA also offers access to 403(b) and 457 retirement savings plans. These are optional, employee-funded plans that provide additional opportunities for tax-advantaged savings, helping you build a more robust retirement strategy.
• Paid Personal Leave and Sick Leave: Based on the number of days worked.
• Telemedicine: Access to 1800MD telemedicine services at no cost.
• Summer Work Opportunities: Opportunities to pick up additional summer work and earn extra pay.
• $3,000 Signing Bonus
• Expert Feedback and Evaluation: Receive guidance and evaluation from leaders who understand your expertise
• Ready Access to Equipment and Testing Materials
• Ongoing Professional Development: Enhance your knowledge and skills for school-based services
• Collaborative Environment: Engage in monthly meetings, roundtable discussions, and collaboration time with colleagues
• Regular 1:1 Check-Ins: Stay connected with your leaders through regular check-ins and team meetings
• Mission-Driven: We are deeply committed to partnering with schools to meet the unique needs of students, making a real difference in their lives every day.
• Leadership in Education: Serving 68 school districts across Northern Illinois, NIA is recognized as a leader in providing exceptional special education support.
• Innovation: We continuously improve our services and embrace new technologies to enhance education and meet the evolving needs of our students.
• Employee-Focused: We invest in your growth with professional development opportunities, a supportive work environment, and recognition of your contributions.
• Quality of Life: Live and work in Northern Illinois, known for its beautiful landscapes, vibrant communities, and easy access to Chicago.

Qualifications:

• Must be certified through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board
• Illinois licensure or the ability to practice in Illinois as determined by the Illinois State Board of Education.
• Master's degree or Doctorate in applied behavioral sciences, psychology, education, or other related fields required.
• Proficiency with school-based technology and office equipment, including computers and specialized software applications like Microsoft Office and Google Suite.

Compensation: 40.53-77.26 Hourly Wage