Behavioral Intervention Specialist (BIS) Career Guide

What Is a Behavioral Intervention Specialist?

A Behavioral Intervention Specialist (BIS) designs and implements individualized behavioral intervention plans for individuals with autism, IDD, or emotional and behavioral disorders. BISs conduct functional behavior assessments (FBAs), develop behavior support plans, train caregivers and staff, and monitor progress toward behavioral goals. The role bridges direct intervention and clinical oversight.

Job Outlook

Behavioral intervention roles are among the fastest-growing in human services. Increased autism awareness, expanded HCBS waivers, and insurance mandates for behavioral health coverage are driving strong demand nationwide.

How to Become a Behavioral Intervention Specialist

1
Obtain a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field
A degree in psychology, applied behavior analysis, special education, social work, or a related field is typically required for BIS roles.
2
Gain direct behavioral intervention experience
Experience working with individuals with autism or IDD in home, school, or community settings is essential. Many BIS candidates start as RBTs or DSPs.
3
Complete ABA and FBA training
Training in Applied Behavior Analysis principles, Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA), and behavior intervention plan development is required for most BIS positions.
4
Obtain relevant certifications
CPI (Crisis Prevention Intervention), RBT certification, and in some states, Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) licensure may be required.
5
Apply for BIS positions
OneWell Healthcare employs BISs to support clients across home and community settings with supervision from licensed BCBAs.

Required Skills

✓Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA)
✓Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) development
✓Data collection and analysis
✓Staff and caregiver training
✓ABA principles application
✓De-escalation and crisis management
✓Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams
✓Written documentation and reporting

Certifications

→CPR / First Aid (required)
→CPI — Crisis Prevention Intervention
→RBT credential (common prerequisite)
→BCBA or BCaBA (for senior BIS roles)
→State-specific behavioral health licensure

Why Work as a BIS at OneWell Healthcare?

✦BCBA-supervised clinical framework with clear escalation paths

✦Competitive pay and performance-based compensation

✦Opportunities to conduct FBAs and develop BIPs

✦Continuing education and certification support

✦Flexible scheduling across home, school, and community sites

✦Collaborative team culture with experienced clinical staff

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Open Behavioral Intervention Specialist Positions at OneWell

No current openings — but we're always growing. Check back soon.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does a Behavioral Intervention Specialist do?

A BIS conducts behavioral assessments, develops behavior intervention plans, implements ABA strategies, trains caregivers and direct care staff, and monitors client progress toward behavioral goals.

What is the difference between a BIS and a BCBA?

BCBAs hold a master's degree and BACB certification, and are responsible for overall clinical program design. BISs typically hold a bachelor's degree and focus on direct intervention and plan implementation under BCBA oversight.

How much does a BIS earn?

BIS salaries average approximately $46,000 per year nationally, or $18–$28 per hour. Master's-level BIS positions in high-demand markets can earn significantly more.

Can a BIS advance to become a BCBA?

Yes. Many BISs pursue a master's degree and complete BACB supervised fieldwork hours while working to become BCBAs. It's one of the most common career paths in behavioral health.