What Does a Behavior Analyst Do?
A behavior analyst is a specialized professional who studies behavior patterns and designs interventions to improve socially significant behaviors. Using the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), they assess clients, develop customized treatment plans, and monitor progress to support behavior change. This role is vital in clinical, educational, and community settings, particularly when working with individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), developmental delays, or behavioral challenges.
Behavior analysts conduct assessments, perform functional behavior analyses (FBAs), and work closely with caregivers, educators, and interdisciplinary teams to ensure treatment plans are effectively implemented. Many behavior analysts hold board certification (BCBA), which allows them to supervise ABA programs and train registered behavior technicians (RBTs).
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Behavior Analyst Core Responsibilities
- Conduct behavior assessments and functional analyses to identify intervention needs
- Develop and implement individualized ABA-based treatment plans
- Collect, review, and interpret behavioral data to guide decisions
- Monitor client progress and adjust programs accordingly
- Train caregivers, teachers, and support staff on behavior support strategies
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including psychologists, educators, and speech therapists
- Ensure compliance with ethical guidelines and privacy regulations (e.g., HIPAA)
- Maintain documentation for insurance billing, audits, and progress reporting
Required Skills and Qualifications
Hard skills
- Proficiency in conducting FBAs and designing behavior intervention plans (BIPs)
- Familiarity with data collection tools and behavior tracking systems
- Strong understanding of ABA principles and methodologies
- Ability to interpret assessment results and apply clinical reasoning
Soft skills
- Empathetic and patient-centered communication
- Analytical thinking and attention to detail
- Ability to train and supervise support staff effectively
- Organizational skills for managing multiple cases
Educational requirements
- Master’s degree in behavior analysis, psychology, education, or a related field
Certifications
- Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification required for independent practice
- State licensure may be required depending on jurisdiction
Preferred Qualifications
- 1–3 years of experience delivering ABA services or working in behavioral health
- Experience with specific populations, such as children with ASD or adults with intellectual disabilities
- Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems or ABA-specific platforms (e.g., CentralReach, Rethink)
- Fluency in a second language to support diverse populations
- Training in trauma-informed care or positive behavior support (PBS)
National Average Salary
Behavior analyst salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for a Behavior Analyst (BCBA) is:
$77,331
Sample Job Description Templates for Behavior Analysts
Entry-Level Behavior Analyst
Position Overview
An entry-level behavior analyst applies the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to assess and support clients with developmental or behavioral challenges. Under supervision, they help design and implement treatment plans and collect behavioral data.
Entry-Level Behavior Analyst Responsibilities
- Assist in conducting behavioral assessments and functional analyses
- Implement treatment plans under supervision of a senior BCBA
- Collect and graph behavioral data for ongoing program evaluation
- Participate in team meetings and caregiver training sessions
- Ensure compliance with ethical and clinical guidelines
Requirements
Hard skills
- Understanding of ABA principles and data collection methods
- Familiarity with behavior tracking software (e.g., CentralReach)
Soft skills
- Eagerness to learn and receive mentorship
- Detail-oriented with strong communication skills
Educational requirements
- Bachelor’s or master’s degree in behavior analysis, psychology, or education
Certifications
- Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) or recently certified BCBA
Preferred Qualifications
- Internship or practicum experience in ABA settings
- Experience working with individuals with autism or related conditions
Mid-Level Behavior Analyst
Position Overview
A mid-level behavior analyst independently manages client caseloads, develops treatment plans, and evaluates progress. They work closely with families and support staff to ensure intervention success.
Mid-Level Behavior Analyst Responsibilities
- Conduct functional behavior assessments and design individualized plans
- Train caregivers and RBTs on implementing behavior strategies
- Analyze behavioral data to adjust treatment goals
- Communicate progress updates to clients and families
- Maintain documentation for audits and insurance compliance
Requirements
Hard skills
- Strong ABA programming and assessment development skills
- Familiarity with ethical decision-making models in behavior analysis
Soft skills
- Organized with strong time-management abilities
- Capable of providing coaching and constructive feedback
Educational requirements
- Master’s degree in a related field
Certifications
- Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)
Preferred Qualifications
- 2–4 years of experience delivering ABA services
- Experience managing caseloads of 8+ clients
Senior Behavior Analyst
Position Overview
A senior behavior analyst supervises clinical teams, refines treatment strategies, and ensures program fidelity. This leadership role bridges clinical expertise and quality assurance.
Senior Behavior Analyst Responsibilities
- Oversee treatment plans across a full caseload and ensure clinical outcomes
- Supervise and mentor RBTs and junior BCBAs
- Conduct quality assurance audits and refine intervention models
- Consult with interdisciplinary teams and attend IEP meetings
- Assist in developing training materials and best practices
Requirements
Hard skills
- Advanced ABA knowledge, including verbal behavior and stimulus control
- Expertise in treatment evaluation and plan generalization
Soft skills
- Leadership and staff development skills
- High-level clinical judgment and ethical decision-making
Educational requirements
- Master’s degree in behavior analysis, psychology, or related field
Certifications
- BCBA; supervisory certification or CEUs recommended
Preferred Qualifications
- 5+ years of ABA experience
- Previous experience in supervision or team leadership
Lead Clinical Behavior Analyst
Position Overview
The lead clinical behavior analyst directs the clinical strategy of ABA services, ensuring evidence-based practices, team performance, and compliance across all client programs.
Lead Clinical Behavior Analyst Responsibilities
- Guide the clinical development of treatment plans and quality control
- Lead training, onboarding, and supervision of clinical staff
- Collaborate with administrators to support client acquisition and retention
- Develop policies for documentation, ethics, and progress evaluation
- Serve as senior liaison for families and external partners
Requirements
Hard skills
- Systems-level thinking and mastery of ABA program design
- Familiarity with electronic health records and clinical dashboards
Soft skills
- Strategic communicator and collaborative team leader
- Coaching and mentoring proficiency
Educational requirements
- Master’s degree in behavior analysis or clinical psychology
Certifications
- BCBA required; BCBA-D or state clinical supervisor licensure preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- 7+ years of ABA experience, including management roles
- Experience in policy development, audit prep, or multi-site oversight
Contract Behavior Analyst
Position Overview
A contract behavior analyst delivers short-term ABA services, supporting clients during peak demand, coverage gaps, or program launches. They are expected to quickly integrate into the treatment team and deliver results with minimal supervision.
Contract Behavior Analyst Responsibilities
- Provide on-site or remote ABA services based on contract scope
- Maintain caseloads and documentation to agency standards
- Collaborate with existing teams and adhere to program protocols
- Support behavior plan execution and data reviews
Requirements
Hard skills
- Capable of rapid adaptation to new systems and teams
- Proficiency in behavior analysis software and HIPAA standards
Soft skills
- Self-directed and reliable under short-term deadlines
- Strong documentation and time-tracking discipline
Educational requirements
- Master’s degree in psychology or ABA
Certifications
- Active BCBA credential
Preferred Qualifications
- 3+ years in ABA with experience in temporary or agency-based roles
- Availability for flexible or travel-based assignments
Pediatric Behavior Analyst
Position Overview
A pediatric behavior analyst specializes in providing ABA therapy to children, often under age 12. They tailor interventions to developmental needs and family dynamics, often working in clinical or home settings.
Pediatric Behavior Analyst Responsibilities
- Conduct developmentally appropriate behavior assessments
- Create engaging, age-appropriate treatment plans
- Train parents and caregivers on intervention strategies
- Use play-based or naturalistic teaching techniques
- Monitor progress and adjust goals to meet child development milestones
Requirements
Hard skills
- Experience with discrete trial training (DTT), NET, and early intervention models
Soft skills
- Patience, creativity, and a warm, child-friendly approach
- Strong communication with families
Educational requirements
- Master’s degree in ABA, child psychology, or education
Certifications
- BCBA certification required
Preferred Qualifications
- 2+ years of ABA experience with young children
- Familiarity with Early Start Denver Model or PECS
School-Based Behavior Analyst
Position Overview
A school-based behavior analyst supports students and staff by conducting assessments, developing behavior plans, and contributing to Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). This role bridges special education and behavior support services.
School-Based Behavior Analyst Responsibilities
- Conduct FBAs in classroom settings and develop behavior intervention plans
- Collaborate with teachers, aides, and school psychologists
- Train staff in behavior strategies and data collection
- Support IEP development and participate in review meetings
- Monitor compliance with behavior plans and district policies
Requirements
Hard skills
- Familiarity with school-based behavior supports, IEPs, and IDEA compliance
- Experience working with diverse academic and behavioral needs
Soft skills
- Strong interpersonal and consultation skills
- Flexibility in dynamic school environments
Educational requirements
- Master’s degree in ABA, school psychology, or special education
Certifications
- BCBA required; state education licensure may be preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- 2+ years in school settings
- Experience with classroom-wide interventions and trauma-informed supports