Behavioral Health & Disabilities Specialist

Helping People. Changing Lives.

Under the supervision of the Behavioral Health & Disabilities Manager, this role supports Disabilities and Behavioral Health services for children ages birth to five in CYFS programs. The Specialist provides training and technical assistance to staff and parents, supports child development through guidance and observation, and ensures compliance with disability laws. This position also coordinates referrals for children needing special education or behavioral health services to the appropriate agencies.

What you bring to the table

Level 1

• Bachelors Degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development or a closely related field.

Level 2

• Bachelors Degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development or a closely related field. Plus two years of experience in teaching/management in an early childhood program.

Level 3

• Masters Degree in Early Childhood Education, Special Education, Psychology, or a closely related field. Must be certified in a specific area related to data analysis and preparation of reports, presentations to board, and overseeing Behavioral Health Consultants and community partners. Plus four years of experience in teaching/management in an early childhood program or working with children with disabilities.

Preferred Education & Experience

• Experience working with children with a diversity of special needs preferred.
• Teaching experience with children 0-5 years of age.
• Fluency in two or more languages, including one that supports the needs of the program and community, is preferred but not required.

Responsibilities of a Behavioral Health & Disabilities Specialist

• Train and support staff and families on IDEA disability laws, Head Start Performance Standards, and referral/evaluation processes.
• Maintain partnerships and collaboration with School Districts, SELPAs, Part C Providers, LEAs, Mental Health Consultants, and community resources.
• Support transitions and attend IEPI/FSP meetings, assist families in advocating for necessary disability services.
• Monitor and maintain accurate documentation, data entry, and records for IEPI/FSP goals and disability-related services.
• Conduct observations and visits to centers, provider homes, and home-based settings to support accommodations, behavioral needs, and implementation of plans.
• Provide behavioral and mental health guidance, training, and PBSP development, ensure staff understand referral pathways and best-practice strategies.
• Offer ongoing training and modeling of evidence-based practices, e.g. Teaching Pyramid, Second Step, Conscious Discipline.
• Participate in Case Review and maintain communication, case management referrals, and follow-up for identified children and families.
• Attend meetings and trainings, stay current on practices, maintain confidentiality, and support inclusive environments for all children and families.
• Conduct in-person and electronic monitoring to ensure compliance with CAPSLO policies, California requirements, and program standards.

Important Notes

• Please note that this job advertisement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
• To view the full job description, click HERE.
• For a comprehensive list of employee perks and benefits, please visit capslo.org/careers.
• For questions regarding the application process or open positions, contact the Recruiting Department at 805-544-4355 or email us at recruitment@capslo.org.

Equal Opportunity Employer

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Community Action Partnership of San Luis Obispo County Inc. will consider all qualified applicants without attention to race, sex, age, religion, disability, national origin, veteran status, socioeconomic class, or any other protected characteristic.

Drug Free Workplace & Asset Infused Organization

This organization is a Drug Free Workplace and an Asset Infused Organization.