Sr. Program Specialist - Behavior & Adaptive Needs - Valley of the Sun YMCA

Provides association-wide leadership, coaching, consultation, and technical assistance related to behavior support, inclusion, adaptive programming, and developmental needs across Early Learning and School-Age programs.

Supports staff, families, and program leaders in creating inclusive environments where children of all abilities can succeed and belong.

This is a grant-funded position for a term of one year and continuation is contingent on funding.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF A SENIOR PROGRAM SPECIALIST - BEHAVIOR & ADAPTIVE NEEDS: BE WELL Provides consultation regarding behavior support plans, classroom management, de-escalation, and developmental interventions.

Supports child safety, risk management, and crisis response practices.

Assists programs in creating supportive environments for children with diverse learning, developmental, emotional, and behavioral needs.

Maintains documentation and confidentiality standards.

Supports compliance with applicable regulations and funding requirements.

DO GOOD Builds collaborative relationships with staff, families, therapists, school districts, and community partners.

Supports family engagement and resource navigation.

Promotes inclusion, accessibility, and belonging across YMCA programs.

Coaches staff in culturally responsive and trauma-informed practices.

Advocates for equitable opportunities and positive outcomes for all children.

LEAD CHANGE Develops and delivers training related to behavior management, inclusion, adaptive programming, and social-emotional development.

Uses program trends and data to identify opportunities for quality improvement.

Supports implementation of evidence-based intervention and inclusion strategies.

Provides coaching and professional development for program leaders and direct-service staff.

Helps expand YMCA capacity to serve children with diverse needs throughout the association.

Responsible for additional duties, as assigned.



*This is not an exhaustive list of job duties.

Other duties, responsibilities and activities may be assigned.

REQUIREMENTS TO BE A SENIOR PROGRAM SPECIALIST - BEHAVIOR & ADAPTIVE NEEDS: Minimum 21 years of age.Master's Degree; Comparable Education & Experience many be considered.Three years of experience working in child behavior science, education, childcare or youth programming required.Current or ability to obtain CPR, First Aid, Fingerprint Clearance Card and TB test.Strong communication and teamwork skills.Willingness to learn YMCA childcare systems.

FULL-TIME BENEFITS: Employee Assistance ProgramFree YMCA Family MembershipEmployee Program Rewards and DiscountsPaid Vacation & Sick Leave (Once Accrued)403b Retirement Savings Account Upon HireProfessional Development Opportunities & Trainings12% Employer Funded Retirement Plan (Once Eligible)Health Benefits Including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, and Disability Insurance OUR YMCA CULTURE: The Valley of the Sun YMCA has been a trusted place of belonging, growth, and opportunity.

We are for strengthe...