Youth Services Specialist

The Regional Center for Independent Living is a Disability-led organization where a majority of the board members, management staff, and staff are themselves people with disabilities. This critical difference sets the organization apart from other organizations that were established to serve and support people with disabilities but are not governed, managed and staff by people with disabilities themselves.

Job Summary

Full-time

Under direct supervision, the Youth Services Specialist serves as a member of a team that provides core Independent Living services and specialized employment services to people with disabilities to support Disabled youth (13 to 24 years old) in transitioning into adulthood and securing and maintaining gainful, competitive employment. The Youth Specialist also provides IL services for children with disabilities and their families.

Job Duties:

• Perform outreach activities to identify children and youth with disabilities, including Disabled youth preparing for the transition from secondary education to higher education or employment.
• Assist consumers in the development of an Independent Living Plan (ILP). Document the development and achievement of IL goals selected by individuals.
• Work with youth program participants that are referred by ACCES-VR and/ or identified in the SWTCIE Project to assess their interests, skills, and qualifications to develop Individualized Vocational Plans to secure competitive integrated employment.
• Provide core independent living services to Disabled youth, including information / referral, independent living skills training, peer mentoring, and individual advocacy.
• Inform Disabled Youth about various programs that are available to them such as special education services, vocational training, social services, and Medicaid. Assist them in securing and/ or maintaining benefits.
• Provide service navigation and individual advocacy to support Disabled children and youth in getting the services and supports they need.
• Establish educational goals and assist students in identifying and requesting accommodations. This may include assistance with developing an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan.
• Work with Disabled youth to build their self-advocacy, employment and independent living skills.
• Facilitate groups specifically tailored for children and youth with disabilities and their families to provide peer support, mentoring and social opportunities.
• Coordinate and provide training for Disabled children / youth and their families on topics including pre-employment and employability skills, financial management, future care planning/ benefits counseling, volunteering, self advocacy, and leadership.
• Provide and coordinate mentoring activities for children/ youth with disabilities.
• Coordinate activities that provide internships and summer jobs for Disabled youth.
• Engage in systems advocacy on behalf of individuals with disabilities, particularly as it relates to education and youth services.
• Other duties as assigned..

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree; or Associate's degree and one year of related experience; or high school diploma or equivalent and two years of related vocational and /or human services experience. Professional and lived experience may be considered in lieu of, in full or part of academic credentials.

Skills and Competencies:

• Strong personal and written communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Impeccable time management skills with a proven ability to be punctual and meet deadlines.
• Commitment to the mission and work of RCIL.

The position is office-based and normal business hours are Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Candidates with disabilities – particularly Disabled individuals from diverse backgrounds – are strongly encouraged to apply.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $22.00 per hour

Expected hours: 37.50 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Monday to Friday

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Required)

Experience:

• case management/service coordination: 3 years (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Rochester, NY 14608: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $22