Basic Purpose of Job
The Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) in the pediatric emergency department serves as a critical member of the interdisciplinary care team, providing behavioral consultation and support to children and adolescents experiencing escalated behaviors, emotional dysregulation, or behavioral crises. This role is especially vital for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other developmental or behavioral conditions, ensuring that care is trauma-informed, individualized, and responsive to sensory and communication needs. The BCBA collaborates closely with medical staff, mental health professionals, and caregivers to develop and implement evidence-based strategies that promote safety, de-escalation, and positive coping. Through real-time consultation, staff training, and behavior support planning, the BCBA helps foster a therapeutic environment that prioritizes dignity, inclusion, and stabilization during acute care encounters.
ETCH Culture
At East Tennessee Children’s Hospital, our culture is grounded in compassion and driven by a shared commitment to the well-being of every child and family we serve. We take ownership of our roles with integrity and purpose, knowing that each action can make a lasting difference. We treat our coworkers and those in our care with deep respect, recognizing the dignity and worth of each individual. Through collaboration, accountability, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, we foster a supportive, inclusive environment where both patients and team members can thrive.
Qualifications
Minimum Education
- Master’s Degree from an accredited school is required
Minimum Work Experience
- At least 3 years’ experience as a credentialed BCBA
- Experience with challenging behaviors and de-escalation techniques
- Experience in acute health/mental health setting
Required Licenses/Certifications for position
- BACB Credentialed Required
- Tennessee License Required
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to relate and effectively communicate with varying levels of staff.
- Work cooperatively and flexibly in role within a multi-disciplinary team.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Behavioral Consultation & Assessment
- Conduct functional behavior assessments (FBAs) for patients exhibiting escalated or challenging behaviors.
- Provide real-time consultation to medical and behavioral health teams during behavioral crises.
- Support for Neurodiverse Populations
- Develop and implement individualized behavior support plans for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), intellectual disabilities, and other developmental conditions.
- Advocate for sensory-friendly and communication-accessible care environments.
- Crisis Intervention & De-escalation
- Active leader and participant on the BERT (behavioral event response team).
- Assist in the development and implementation of de-escalation strategies.
- Train staff in trauma-informed approaches and behavior management techniques.
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration
- Collaborate with physicians, nurses, psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and other hospital staff to integrate behavioral strategies into patient care.
- Participate in care planning meetings and rounds to ensure behavioral needs are addressed.
- Staff Training & Capacity Building
- Provide education and training to hospital staff on behavior analytic principles, autism support strategies, and crisis prevention.
- Develop training materials and protocols for managing behavioral challenges.
- Family Engagement & Support
- Work with families to understand behavioral concerns and provide guidance on strategies for home and community settings.
- Facilitate communication between families and hospital staff regarding behavioral needs.
- Data Collection & Documentation
- Collect and analyze behavioral data to monitor progress and adjust interventions.
- Maintain accurate and timely documentation in the patient’s medical record.
- Program Development & Quality Improvement
- Contribute to the development of hospital-wide behavioral health initiatives and protocols.
- Participate in quality improvement projects related to behavioral health and patient safety.
- Ethical and Professional Standards
- Adhere to the BACB Professional and Ethical Compliance Code.
- Maintain certification and participate in ongoing professional development.
Human Resource (Team Behaviors)
- Remains knowledgeable and up to date on relevant research and empirically validated clinical practice through attendance and participation at continuing education events.
- Willingly accepts any other assignment that may be requested.
Financial Stewardship
- Utilizes hospital resources and time respectfully and accountably.
- Prioritizes and plans work activities in a way that utilizes time efficiently.
- Sets goals and objectives
- Develops realistic action plans based on goals and objectives
Compensation
- Receive competitive compensation aligned with your expertise and past experiences.
- Opportunity to participate in a robust health insurance package that supports physical and mental wellness.
- Financial and time support for continuing education opportunities and career growth support.
- Join a workplace culture that encourages/focuses on the growth of employees.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS-Note: Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.
- Heavy lifting, pushing, and pulling is required up to 50 lbs occasionally, 20-30 lbs frequently, and 10lbs constantly to move objects of up to 150 lbs. Sudden emergency situations have the potential for exposure to lifting or moving of up to 150 lbs. Frequent bending, walking, sitting squatting, reaching, and standing are required. Keyboard/computer use and/or repetitive motions may be required.
Come work where you can make a difference everyday.