Salary Range
$30,000 – $50,000
Annual salary (national)
RBT
Registered Behavior Technician (RBT)
Registered Behavior Technicians are the frontline providers of applied behavior analysis therapy, working directly with clients to implement treatment plans designed by BCBAs. RBTs spend the majority of their time in one-on-one sessions teaching communication, social, academic, and daily living skills using evidence-based ABA techniques. The RBT credential is the fastest entry point into the ABA field and is in extremely high demand across clinics, schools, and home-based therapy programs.
Education
High school diploma or equivalent, completion of a 40-hour RBT training program, passage of the RBT competency assessment administered by a BCBA, and passing the RBT certification exam.
Minimum education required
Certification
BACB
Certifying organization
Frequently Asked Questions
What does an RBT do?
An RBT works directly with clients — most often children with autism — to implement the behavior intervention plan created by a supervising BCBA. Daily tasks include running discrete trial training, conducting natural environment teaching, recording session data, and helping clients practice skills like communication, self-care, and social interaction. RBTs are the backbone of ABA service delivery and spend more face-to-face time with clients than any other role in the field.
How do I get my RBT certification?
To become an RBT, you must complete a 40-hour training course covering ABA principles and ethics, then pass a competency assessment conducted by a BCBA who observes you working with a client. After your competency is verified, you can register for and take the RBT exam through the BACB. The entire process typically takes 2-3 months from start to finish.
What is the average RBT salary?
RBT salaries range from about $30,000 to $50,000 annually, with a national median around $38,000. Hourly rates typically fall between $15 and $25 per hour. Pay varies substantially by state and employer — RBTs in metropolitan areas of California or the Northeast can earn $22-$25 per hour, while those in lower-cost regions may start closer to $15-$17.
What career growth opportunities exist for RBTs?
Many RBTs advance their careers by pursuing a bachelor's degree and BCaBA certification, or a master's degree and BCBA certification. Some employers offer tuition assistance or reimbursement programs specifically for RBTs pursuing higher credentials. Within the RBT role itself, experienced technicians may take on lead or senior RBT positions with higher pay and mentoring responsibilities.
What does a typical day look like for an RBT?
A typical RBT day involves 5-7 hours of direct client sessions, usually broken into 2-3 hour blocks with different clients. Between sessions, RBTs prepare materials, review session plans, and complete data entry. Most RBTs also participate in a weekly or biweekly supervision meeting with their BCBA to review client progress and receive feedback on their implementation skills.
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271 open RBT positions nationwide
Browse RBT Jobs
Search open Registered Behavior Technician positions at leading ABA therapy providers nationwide.
Browse 271 RBT Jobs