As a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) or an ABA professional, it’s essential to recognize that not all employers in the field are alike. While numerous organizations praise competitive salaries, the reality of high turnover rates, inconsistent hours, and inadequate professional support can significantly impact your career satisfaction.
The demand for behavior analysts has surged dramatically, increasing by 820% since 2017 according to the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. However, this rapid industry growth raises an important question: how do you select the right ABA company for your career?
Common Pitfalls in ABA Employment
Many professionals enter new positions with enthusiasm, only to discover critical red flags later on. Here are some typical missteps ABA professionals make when choosing an employer:
- Focusing Solely on Salary: While a higher hourly wage might seem appealing, it holds little value if hours aren’t guaranteed or if travel time is unpaid. Companies with turnover rates as high as 70% illustrate that compensation alone does not guarantee job satisfaction.
- Neglecting Work-Life Balance: Burnout is a genuine concern. Research indicates that healthcare workers facing commutes over 50 minutes experience a greater risk of burnout and related health issues. It’s vital to assess whether your potential employer emphasizes manageable caseloads and client matching based on proximity.
- Overlooking Growth Opportunities: Approximately 23% of workers express dissatisfaction with career advancement opportunities. It’s crucial to determine if the company provides continuing education units (CEUs), tuition reimbursement, and professional development programs.
What to Look for in an ABA Employer
To enhance your chances of success, consider evaluating potential employers based on the following criteria:
- Look for companies that offer income stability by minimizing cancellations.
- A stable team often signifies effective management practices.
- Evaluate the availability of health insurance, paid time off (PTO), retirement plans, and paid CEUs, as these factors contribute to long-term satisfaction.
- Strong supervision is key to fostering career growth and enhancing job satisfaction.
- Consider whether the company employs scheduling tools to streamline workloads and reduce administrative tasks.
Access a Comprehensive Guide for Choosing the Right ABA Employer
The competitive nature of the ABA job market should not compel you to accept a position that misaligns with your professional aspirations and values.
To assist you in your decision-making process, we have developed an in-depth white paper that outlines essential factors to consider before accepting an offer. This guide includes:
- Key elements to assess when evaluating potential ABA employers
- Insights on turnover rates and their implications
- Common contractual pitfalls and strategies to avoid them
Download Your Free Guide to Find the Right ABA Company!
Equip yourself with the knowledge to make informed career choices in the ABA field.
References
- Behavior Analyst Certification Board. (2024). US employment demand for Behavior Analysts: 2010–2023. https://www.bacb.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Lightcast2024_240305-a.pdf
- Chen, Y. H., Lin, J. J., Yang, C. W., Tang, H. M., Jong, G. P., & Yang, T. Y. (2024). The effect of commuting time on burnout: the mediation effect of musculoskeletal pain. BMC health services research, 24(1), 468. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12913-024-10908-1
- DeCarbo, B. (2024, July 2). Lack of growth opportunities is a big reason why employees leave jobs. Here’s how to change that. https://www.apa.org. https://www.apa.org/topics/healthy-workplaces/growth-opportunities
