Behavioral Specialist

Cardinal O’Hara High School

1701 South Sproul Road

Springfield, PA 19064

Position Summary:

The Archdiocese of Philadelphia, the Office of Catholic Education and Cardinal O’Hara High School are currently seeking an energetic and outgoing individual to fill the position of Behavioral Specialist. This position will be responsible for providing support, consultation, in-service, and advisory services to teachers, parents, administrators and other personnel regarding the implementation of positive behavior interventions and special education programming for students with behavioral and/or mental health needs (including, but not limited to autism and emotional disturbance). This role will involve working closely with the Administration, Faculty, Counselors, Coaches, and Students.

This is a full-time, 12-month position.

** Responsibilities**

• Assist in developing, coordinating, implementing and monitoring individual behavior management plans for students with behavioral and/or mental health needs.
• Ability to provide assistance and support to staff in maintaining effective management of student behavior.
• Provide crisis management.
• Participate as a member of the IEP team as appropriate.
• Conduct observations and complete behavior management reports.
• Develop and implement professional development in areas related to behavioral and mental health including, but not limited to: educationally-related mental health services; functional analysis assessment and data collection, positive behavior intervention and support plans, and evidence-based practices.
• Attend meetings, in-services, school activities and meetings scheduled and/or requested.
• Assist in the implementation of state and federal laws to maintain district compliance.
• Maintain knowledge of current laws and regulations pertaining to individuals with exceptional needs.
• Conduct Functional Analysis Assessments (FAA) and collect behavior data as part of a multi-disciplinary team.
• Promote awareness, communication, and public relations between parents, community partner agencies regarding behavior and mental health services.
• Ability to work collaboratively with staff, students and parents.
• Other duties as assigned.

** Qualifications**

• BA preferred. Will consider any combination of education, training and experience equivalent to the possession of a bachelor’s degree with emphasis in psychology, social work or child development: previous experience in special education and working with students who are emotionally disturbed or autistic.

• Knowledge of:

• Appropriate behavioral intervention strategies

• Child development and learning theory

• Laws, rules and regulations of acceptable behavioral intervention

• Interpersonal skills needed to manage crisis situations

• Records management systems

• Standard software applications

• Strong verbal, written, customer service, organizational, and interpersonal skills.

• Demonstrated ability to relate well to individuals from diverse backgrounds.

• Ability to communicate and collaborate effectively with students, parents, families, administrators, faculty, and staff.

• Possess initiative, leadership, enthusiasm, and a sense of humor.

• Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality.

• Knowledge of, and commitment to, the mission of Cardinal O’Hara High School.

Candidates interested in Behavioral Specialist position should submit their cover letter, resume, and references to

Mike Connor, President, at mconnor@cohs.com

The deadline for applications is July 21, 2025.

Interviews will be granted to the most qualified applicants.

PA required clearances and Safe Environment Certification will be required before employment can begin.

As a religious organization, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia is also bound by Canon Law and Catholic teachings. For this reason, there may be occasions when an employee’s failure to adhere to the truths of the Catholic faith are a factor in employment-related decisions. In the event an employee fails to adhere to, or takes a position publicly that is contrary to, Catholic doctrine and teachings, or any policy or procedure maintained by the Archdiocese, the employee may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment.

Employment practices will not be influenced by an individual’s legally protected status or any other basis as may be required by local, state and/or federal law as those laws apply to the Archdiocese.

Any employee with questions or concerns about any type of discrimination in the workplace is encouraged to bring these issues to the attention of Human Resources. Employees can raise concerns and make reports without fear of reprisal. Anyone found to be engaging in any type of unlawful discrimination will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.

The Archdiocese of Philadelphia is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applications without regards to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact the Office of Catholic Education at 215-587-3700.