Advocacy Program Associate (Disability Services) - Non-Profit

AHRC NYC•Manhattan, NY

About The Position

AHRC New York City is seeking an Advocacy Program Associate to uphold the rights of students receiving special education services from New York City Public Schools and other ID/DD service providers. The associate advises and represents students and families experiencing difficulties accessing appropriate services and supports resolution of those difficulties. The position is scheduled Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., for 35 hours per week, with occasional work outside normal business hours required. Compensation is $55,000–$65,000 per year, plus a comprehensive benefits package.

Requirements

Master’s degree in Special Education, Social Work, or a related human services field; alternatively, a bachelor’s degree in one of these fields plus two years of professional work experience.
Working knowledge of Federal IDEA and New York State and New York City Department of Education regulations, special education law and guidelines, and CPSE/CSE processes.
Ability to communicate effectively and establish and maintain relationships with students, family members, and external professional staff.
Ability to present verbal information simply and concisely, listen skillfully, and write effectively.
Strong organizational and multitasking skills.
Capacity to make independent decisions and handle time-sensitive or stressful situations.
Flexibility to occasionally work outside normal business hours.

Nice To Haves

Experience advocating for students with developmental or intellectual disabilities.
Bilingual Spanish language skills.
Valid driver’s license.

Responsibilities

Provide technical assistance and information and referral services to parents and professionals seeking help from the AHRC NYC Advocacy Office.
Assist with relevant training workshops for parents and related caregivers.
Attend SBST, CPSE, CSE, and other meetings to promote or ensure delivery of appropriate services to students and families.
Accompany parents or caregivers on school visits as necessary.
Develop, maintain, and enhance quality assurance systems that track advocacy outcomes and assess parent or caregiver satisfaction.
Document advocacy services promptly and accurately as required by OPWDD contracts.
Prepare reports and other written materials as required.
Attend city-wide coalition and committee meetings under the direction of the Director of Advocacy Services.
Perform other job-related activities as needed.