Advocacy Program Associate (Disability Services) - Non-Profit

AHRC NYC•New York, NY

7d•$55,000 - $65,000

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 role helps ensure that students and families facing difficulty accessing appropriate services receive sound advice and representation in resolving those difficulties. The position provides technical assistance, information and referrals, supports parent and caregiver training, and participates in meetings and school visits related to service delivery. It also involves tracking advocacy outcomes and satisfaction, maintaining required documentation, preparing reports, and attending coalition and committee meetings as directed. The schedule is Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., for 35 hours per week. Flexibility to occasionally work outside normal business hours is 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; or 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 effectively, and write well.
Strong organizational and multitasking skills.
Ability 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 conducting relevant training workshops for parents and related caregivers.
Attend SBST, CPSE, CSE, and other meetings as needed 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 all aspects of advocacy services accurately and promptly 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.