Behavior Technician
Position Summary
Buffalo Center is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Behavior Technician to support residents with behavioral health and mental health needs in our skilled nursing and rehabilitation centers. The Behavior Technician works closely with the interdisciplinary team to implement person-centered, non-pharmacological interventions that promote resident well-being, reduce disruptive behaviors, and enhance quality of life.
The ideal candidate has a degree in Psychology or Behavioral Science, is passionate about serving older adults, possesses strong interpersonal skills, and is committed to creating a safe, supportive, and therapeutic environment for residents.
Key Responsibilities
Engage residents experiencing mental health, behavioral, emotional, or cognitive challenges.
Implement individualized, non-pharmacological interventions designed to reduce negative behaviors and improve resident outcomes.
Develop and facilitate both individual and group activities that support emotional wellness, social engagement, and behavioral stabilization.
Collaborate with Recreation, Social Services, Nursing, and other interdisciplinary team members to develop and implement effective behavior management strategies.
Participate in care plan meetings and contribute to resident-centered behavioral care planning.
Assist facility leadership in identifying environmental modifications that reduce triggers and promote positive resident interactions.
Attend Behavior Committee, QAPI, and other interdisciplinary meetings as assigned.
Promote resident participation in therapeutic, recreational, and social activities.
Monitor resident responses to interventions and document observations, progress, and outcomes accurately and timely.
Identify resident needs and refer concerns to appropriate clinical or social service professionals.
Support residents’ rights, dignity, independence, and overall quality of life at all times.
Maintain compliance with infection prevention, safety, HIPAA, and corporate compliance standards.
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Psychology, Social Work, Human Services, Behavioral Science, or a related field required.
Experience working with older adults, individuals with behavioral health needs, dementia, or mental health diagnoses preferred.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work effectively as part of an interdisciplinary healthcare team.
Proficiency in documentation and basic computer skills.
Ability to exercise sound judgment, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills in a healthcare setting.
Skills & Competencies
Behavioral intervention and de-escalation techniques
Resident engagement and therapeutic activity planning
Person-centered care planning
Documentation and reporting
Team collaboration and communication
Compassion, patience, and empathy
Professionalism and confidentiality
Physical Requirements
Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, reach, and move throughout the facility.
Ability to lift, push, and pull up to 50 pounds.
Ability to work in a fast-paced healthcare environment with frequent interruptions.
Ability to respond effectively during emergencies and assist as needed throughout the facility.