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Job outlook for intervention specialists in the United States
Are intervention specialist jobs in demand?
Intervention specialist job and salary trends over time
Intervention specialist jobs over time
Intervention specialist job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 2,394 | 0.00% |
| 2020 | 2,456 | 0.00% |
| 2019 | 2,477 | 0.00% |
| 2018 | 2,455 | 0.00% |
| 2017 | 2,356 | 0.00% |
Average intervention specialist salary over time
Intervention specialist salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | $50,180 | $24.12 | +4.4% |
| 2025 | $48,048 | $23.10 | +4.0% |
| 2024 | $46,183 | $22.20 | +3.7% |
| 2023 | $44,546 | $21.42 | +1.3% |
| 2022 | $43,979 | $21.14 | +1.3% |
Intervention specialist jobs by state
Most common states for intervention specialists
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 2,269 | 33% |
| 2 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 174 | 25% |
| 3 | Alaska | 739,795 | 160 | 22% |
| 4 | Maine | 1,335,907 | 270 | 20% |
| 5 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 207 | 20% |
| 6 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 1,104 | 18% |
| 7 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 336 | 17% |
| 8 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 890 | 16% |
| 9 | Iowa | 3,145,711 | 499 | 16% |
| 10 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 1,110 | 15% |
| 11 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 208 | 15% |
| 12 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 161 | 15% |
| 13 | Pennsylvania | 12,805,537 | 1,734 | 14% |
| 14 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 796 | 14% |
| 15 | Delaware | 961,939 | 137 | 14% |
| 16 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 123 | 14% |
| 17 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 109 | 14% |
| 18 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 553 | 13% |
| 19 | Idaho | 1,716,943 | 216 | 13% |
| 20 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 74 | 13% |
Most common cities for intervention specialists
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Newark | 15 | 31% | $41,445 |
| 2 | Cleveland | 34 | 9% | $42,556 |
| 3 | Canton | 6 | 8% | $42,319 |
| 4 | Akron | 13 | 7% | $42,413 |
| 5 | Lorain | 4 | 6% | $42,354 |
| 6 | Youngstown | 4 | 6% | $42,748 |
| 7 | Cincinnati | 9 | 3% | $40,573 |
| 8 | Hartford | 4 | 3% | $55,041 |
| 9 | Columbus | 15 | 2% | $41,201 |
| 10 | Allentown | 2 | 2% | $42,592 |
| 11 | Toledo | 4 | 1% | $41,930 |
| 12 | Chicago | 3 | 0% | $50,142 |
Intervention Specialist job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of intervention specialist experts
University of Alaska Anchorage
University of Minnesota - Twin Cities
University of Hawaii at Manoa
University of Utah
Texas Woman's University
Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis
Louisiana State University at Shreveport
North Dakota State University
Tiffin University
Assumption University
Ohio Wesleyan University
Loyola University Chicago
University of the Incarnate Word
Shippensburg University
Montana State University
University of Lynchburg
Dr. Pamela Brillante
ProfessorWhat general advice would you give to an Intervention Specialist?
Dr. Pamela Brillante: Attaining additional certifications and credentials while in your first few years of teaching will grow your salary quickly.
Krista James Ph.D.
Program Lead & Assistant Professor of Special EducationUniversity of Alaska Anchorage
Special Education And Teaching
What general advice would you give to an Intervention Specialist?
Krista James Ph.D.: Shop around to various school districts. Look at their salary scale but also at any signing bonuses they might offer.
What will help Intervention Specialists increase their earning potential?
Krista James Ph.D.: We have always known that inclusion is best practice and many districts have begun moving in that direction so skills in Universal Design for Learning are necessary for teaching in inclusive settings.
What general advice would you give to an Intervention Specialist?
Dr. Kimberly Coy: The first part is to get your Master's degree, and then understand the pay scale in the district you work in as well as the districts around you. The second part is to make sure to join the teachers union and understand the bargaining process.
What general advice would you give to an Intervention Specialist?
Amy Kunkel Ph.D.: The need for good special education teachers is greater than ever before, thus graduates with a special education teaching license can often find teaching positions within their own communities. Take your time to look around at your options, ask questions about your caseload, and try to gauge the support provided by administration and the special education team you will be joining. Oftentimes our student teachers have multiple job offers prior to finishing up their student teaching semester. You want to choose an environment that feels welcoming and supportive.
One piece of advice that all new teachers should remember is the importance of self-care. Teaching is not an easy profession, and teachers teach because they love working with children and young adults. Special education teachers have a very unique passion, and it's helpful to always remember your reason for teaching. The kids will help you with this! I recommend new teachers keep a journal of their thoughts, keep their evenings and weekends work-free, and find time to nourish their hobbies and skills outside the classroom.
What will help Intervention Specialists increase their earning potential?
Amy Kunkel Ph.D.: To maximize your salary potential, first ask to see the hiring district’s salary schedule. Most districts operate on a “step and lane” system in which you receive higher pay for each year of service (step) and receive substantial raises for additional degrees earned (lane). For example, some districts will raise your salary for every 15 graduate credits you have earned, maximizing at a terminal degree. Teachers with a master’s degree + additional credits will earn substantially more than those without a master’s degree.
What general advice would you give to an Intervention Specialist?
Francesca Go Ph. D.: For a new Special Education teacher, the key, if possible, is to be well trained in individualizing instruction, making data-based decisions, knowing the law and students' rights, and understanding the importance of collaborating well with students and parents. A good teacher will know what the science and research say about what works and what does not, especially around instruction in areas like reading and mathematics. More broadly, what a new teacher needs, at the minimum, is empathy and understanding for the student and parents and a willingness to meet the student where they are in learning.
Elsa Drevyn PT, DPT
Clinical Assistant Professor and Director of Clinical Education and Vice Chair for Clinical EducationWhat general advice would you give to an Intervention Specialist?
Elsa Drevyn PT, DPT: It brings a lot of satisfaction to help someone recover or achieve the greatest potential that they possibly can after an injury, accident, illness, etc. This profession probably offers more flexibility than many as far as job sharing, hours, settings, etc. There is also flexibility in the types of settings that we can work in and the opportunity to change settings throughout our careers. We deal with a lot of emotional situations, patients in pain and distressed, that does take a toll. There is pressure from administrators for increased productivity and that also gets taxing.
What Intervention Specialist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Elsa Drevyn PT, DPT: This would totally depend on the setting. Generally speaking, in an acute setting, the PT would be working on early mobilization of the patient to prevent complications from prolonged positioning. If the patient is stable, the PT would most likely be working on bed mobility, transfers, gait training, exercises, while at the same time monitoring the pt’s reaction to the intervention. In an inpatient rehabilitation setting, the PT would be working with the patient for close to an hour or so, two times per day to help them achieve the highest level of function possible. In an OP setting, the PT would be working on the specific issue/impairment, to help the patient attain ROM, strength, function, decrease pain, etc.
What will help Intervention Specialists increase their earning potential?
Elsa Drevyn PT, DPT: There is increased awareness of what we do and how we can assist an individual. There is also increased autonomy and the push for even more autonomy. There is high demand in the different settings and salaries have improved over the years.
What general advice would you give to an Intervention Specialist?
Dr. Marija Čolić: People love being SPED teachers because of the profound impact they can have on students' lives. Watching students make progress, achieve their goals, and seeing the joy this brings to their families is incredibly rewarding. The profession offers a sense of purpose and the opportunity to make a meaningful difference every day.
What Intervention Specialist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Marija Čolić: Special Education is a vital and rewarding field. SPED teachers have the power to change lives, which is incredibly fulfilling. There is always a need for SPED teachers, making it a stable career choice. People are drawn to this profession because of the immense satisfaction that comes from seeing students improve and their happiness, as well as the joy it brings to their families. The profession offers constant opportunities for growth and learning, making it a dynamic and impactful career path.
What will help Intervention Specialists increase their earning potential?
Breda O’Keeffe Ph.D.: Before even starting your career in special education, look for programs and scholarships that provide financial support for your education and teaching license/credential. Because special education teachers are in high demand, many states, districts, and institutes of higher education provide financial incentives and supports for preservice teachers. Another option is to look for programs that provide loan forgiveness for working in high need areas (e.g., special education), schools (e.g., Title I schools), or districts. Graduating with low or no debt can help maximize your take-home pay as a teacher. Also, be aware that each state has its own teacher licensing/credentialing systems and that licenses/credentials do not always transfer directly when going from one state to another. If you know what state you will be teaching in, make sure your license/credential will be easily recognized in that state (or you may face additional educational requirements and costs). In addition, be aware that teacher salaries vary widely across states, across cities within states, and across different settings (e.g., private, public, preschool, K-12, etc.). In seeking preparation to become a special education teacher, you have many options that will ultimately affect your salary potential. Alternative routes to licensure which do not include the typical supports of a traditional teacher education program may be tempting, because they tend to be shorter and less expensive. Unfortunately, special education teachers prepared through these routes leave the field sooner and at higher rates than teachers provided with higher quality training at an institute of higher education (e.g., colleges and universities). Look for accredited programs that provide hands-on instruction and multiple supervised field experiences in the settings you will be teaching in, with high quality supervision and feedback (e.g., from a faculty member with teaching experience in your area), support for preparing for licensing/credentialing requirements, and instruction in evidence-based practices in academics, classroom management, intensive behavior supports, assessment, and special education law and policy. You will be more competitive when you start and more likely to persist, which will make the costs of your education worthwhile! When you are seeking a job, district salary schedules are posted on their respective websites. If salary is of utmost interest to you, start looking for high paying districts. Typically, charter and private schools do not have posted salary schedules, but if you are applying to those institutions, you should feel comfortable asking them to match the neighboring district pay. Some districts also offer additional compensation through incentive programs, “buying out” preparation periods, or other school-related duties. Don’t jump into committees and “extra duties” right away. Look for incentive programs specifically for high needs areas, such as special education. For example, in Utah, special education teachers can access the Teacher Salary Supplement Program (TSSP). This fund serves to reward and retain qualified educators in positions that have been identified as having staffing shortages. The state has also provided additional paid workdays outside of contract days to special education teachers to help prepare files and paperwork at the start or end of the school year. In addition, you can increase your pay by seeking further education such as a master’s degree or endorsements.
Gina Anderson
Associate Dean for Educator Preparation and PartnershipsTexas Woman's University
TWU College of Professional Education
What skills stand out on Intervention Specialist resumes?
Gina Anderson: Skills that would stand out on resumes include evidence of the ability to work with children from diverse backgrounds (students with disabilities, second language learners, students from a variety of different ethnic backgrounds, religions, sexual/gender orientations, and family structures); evidence of ability to work with children who have experienced grief, trauma, loss, and mental illness; knowledge and skills regarding child development, learning strategies, classroom management, and socio-emotional learning.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Intervention Specialists?
Gina Anderson: These would include proficiency with technology tools that enhance communication, instruction, and assessment, critical analysis and/or problem-solving skills, and data analysis skills.
Erin Foster Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Occupational Therapy, Neurology and PsychiatryWashington University School of Medicine in St Louis
Program in Occupational Therapy
What soft skills should all Intervention Specialists possess?
Erin Foster Ph.D.: Grit, resilience, persistence; flexibility, adaptability; ability to work in multi/inter-disciplinary teams, collaborate, interpersonal skills; ethics, integrity; leadership & management.
Kacie Blalock Ph.D.
Associate Professor; Director, Master of CounselingLouisiana State University at Shreveport
Department Of Psychology
What hard/technical skills are most important for Intervention Specialists?
Kacie Blalock Ph.D.: It is important that counselors are able to effectively take notes and summarize progress, interpret assessments, memorize and recall information, and keep clear yet concise records.
Joel Hektner Ph.D.
Professor and Department HeadNorth Dakota State University
Human Development and Family Science
What soft skills should all Intervention Specialists possess?
Joel Hektner Ph.D.: Interpersonal skills, communication, ability to work collaboratively. Respect for individual and cultural differences.
What skills will help Intervention Specialists earn the most?
Joel Hektner Ph.D.: The ability to adapt your skills to the context you are in.
Jonathan Appel Ph.D.
Professor of Psychology, Counseling & Criminal JusticeTiffin University
Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Intervention Specialists?
Jonathan Appel Ph.D.: The pandemic has exacerbated mental health issues and needs all across the world. People need social interaction for well-being. The pandemic has contributed to increases in mental health and addictive disorders. Knowledge, training, treatment for psychological well-being has become even more critical as a personal and professional required skill across all fields.
Being able to understand and adapt to the limits of distance work will also be a lasting impact.
Susan Scully-Hill Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Human Services and Rehabilitation Studies and Director of the School Counseling program at Assumption UniversityAssumption University
Department of Human Services and Rehabilitation Studies
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Intervention Specialist job market given the pandemic?
Susan Scully-Hill Ph.D.: What I am seeing now is that schools are increasing the number of "school support personnel" by hiring additional school counselors, school adjustment counselors, learning coaches, student engagement officers, instructional aides, and para-professionals. Student engagement in remote learning is, overall, very low and schools are seeing more students failing multiple subjects than they have ever before. Currently schools are working hard to increase student engagement and academic outcomes by increasing support personnel. I think this trend will continue even as students transition back to in-person learning. Transitioning back to in- person learning will create challenges for many students-not just academic challenges but social, and emotional as well. Making up for lost classroom and learning time will be a priority and therefore additional school personnel will be required.
What certifications/licenses/courses can have the biggest impact for Intervention Specialists?
Susan Scully-Hill Ph.D.: -Being licensed as a school counselor and/or a school adjustment counselor will have the biggest impact on our graduates. Licensed counselors will be sought after to fill student support personnel positions.
-Coursework focused on academic, learning, social, emotional, and behavioral interventions will be essential for counselors who wish to work in the schools and have a positive impact on student learning outcomes.
What experience really stands out on Intervention Specialist resumes?
Dr. Andrew Busch: For students looking to get into graduate school and those looking to get hired within the field of Exercise Science (Physiology, Kinesiology, Athletic Training, Physical Therapy, Strength Coaching) the more hands-on experiences one can be exposed to, the better equipped they will be to hit the ground running. I know of many different four-year institutions that hand out degrees in this field where the students never actually work with a real person. Everything is a theory or textbook-based approach, and while those things are certainly important, if a student is never asked to actually apply those concepts, and asked to respond to the issues/questions that arise when those concepts don't always work like advertised in the textbook, they are missing out on the big picture of what a degree should be giving them. If practical experiences are not part of a given academic program, then students should seek out these experiences, because that is what they will be asked about in their interview process with employers. What have you done? Why are you interested in this field? What differences can you make? They are never asked what score they got on their midterm or final exam.
Sheryl Covitt
Adjunct Faculty in the School of EducationLoyola University Chicago
School of Education
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Intervention Specialists to find work opportunities?
Sheryl Covitt: I can't speak to locations outside the Chicagoland area but I can surmise that in communities around the country, urban, suburban and rural, there is a huge need for teachers especially as there has been a documented increase in the number of teachers retiring due to the pandemic and/or are of Baby Boomer age. Per the literature, there is an increased need for teachers in special education which includes pre-K, inclusion and lo-incidence, English as a Second Language, and specialty areas in both elementary and high school.
In Chicago, the need for teachers is city-wide-not just in the high-need areas. Chicago Public Schools has The Early Offer Program which provides student teaching candidates a chance to interview with a member of the CPS teacher recruitment staff well in advance of the traditional hiring season. If they think the candidate is a good fit, they will extend a guaranteed offer to teach in CPS, and then work with them throughout the spring and summer to meet principals and find a teaching position that is an ideal fit for you. As I understand the caveat with this program, it's that they seek to place candidates in schools in high need areas of the city and this may dissuade candidates from pursuing this option.
There ARE teaching jobs available and some of variables that candidates need to seriously consider before accepting a position are:
-salary
-benefits
-professional development
-supervision/mentoring
-the financial stability of the district and the past trends when balancing budgets
-viability of the content area in terms of district need.
Dr. Maria Felix-Ortiz Ph.D.
Professor of Psychology and ChairUniversity of the Incarnate Word
Department of Psychology
What experience really stands out on Intervention Specialist resumes?
Dr. Maria Felix-Ortiz Ph.D.: A good cover letter! Unfortunately, many applicants forget the importance of submitting a cover letter for the resume and HR usually skims a cover letter to see if the applicant's skills match the skills described in the job advertisement. Use the language of the job description to describe skills you may bring to the work! Beyond this, applicants can impress those hiring with an internship or research assistantship where the student has worked for two or more semesters, with skills in a second language and culture OR being very "fluent" in technology, with a substantial study-abroad experience, and/or some sort of research product (e.g., a poster, a paper accepted to a journal).
Dr. David Bateman Ph.D.
Professor of Special EducationShippensburg University
Department of Educational Leadership and Special Education
What skills stand out on Intervention Specialist resumes?
Dr. David Bateman Ph.D.: Certification. Experience working with children with disabilities.
Daniel Hall Ph.D.
Program Director, Assistant Professor of Counselor EducationUniversity of Lynchburg
College of Education, Leadership Studies, & Counseling
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Intervention Specialists?
Daniel Hall Ph.D.: I do believe there will be an enduring impact from the coronavirus - not just on graduates, but on the mental health profession. Graduates will have personal experience with many of the stressors that might bring clients in for counseling services. So, it is my hope that all practitioners moving forward will have increased empathy and understanding that will contribute to their efficacy with clients across a spectrum of concerns.
As a profession, mental health counselors will need to be sure that they have engaged in appropriate self-care to mitigate any of the psychological effects of the pandemic they may be experiencing themselves. And, finally, there has been a huge expansion in the teletronic delivery of mental health services during Covid times. Even as face-to-face counseling becomes more widely available and returns as a viable and available option, electronic services have earned an acceptance that did not exist prior to the pandemic, and that delivery model will continue to be far more prevalent than it was before.