Walk-in Interviews-Day Hab (DSP) -November 10, 2026 9:00am-1:00pm

Abilities First•Poughkeepsie, NY

16d

About The Position

Abilities First is hiring for Day Habilitation Specialist and Assistant Coordinator roles at day habilitation program sites in the Poughkeepsie, New York area. The Day Habilitation Specialist assists people with developmental disabilities to maximize their personal and vocational potential in their center and community. The role provides direct care and helps implement and document each person’s program plan. Depending on program needs, specialists may support other programs; floating specialists are assigned based on need. The Assistant Coordinator assists the Coordinator with daily program coordination, oversight, direct care, documentation, and site operations. The role also supports individuals in maximizing their personal and vocational potential. In the Program Coordinator’s absence, the Assistant Coordinator is responsible for the center’s concerns. The listed standard schedule is Monday through Friday, 7:45 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The posting gives hourly pay ranges by role: Day Hab Specialist I (drivers), $18.12–$20.12; Day Hab Specialist II (drivers), $18.63–$20.63; Floating Day Hab Specialist (drivers), $18.83–$20.83; Assistant Coordinator I, $19.54–$21.54; and Assistant Coordinator II, $20.08–$22.54. Depending on program needs, additional certifications, with training provided, may add up to $3 per hour: medication administration ($1.00), insulin ($0.50), G-tube ($1.00), and ostomy care ($0.50). Abilities First describes itself as a mission-driven organization that has supported people with developmental disabilities for over 60 years through services spanning early education, day programs, residential services, community connections, and employment services. It states that it is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes people of varying abilities and backgrounds.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
At least one year of experience supporting individuals with developmental disabilities.
Clean New York State driver's license deemed acceptable by the organization's insurance carrier.
Must be at least 21 years old.
Ability to obtain required certifications, including SCIP-R, CPR, SFA, and medication certification.
Ability to lift and maneuver individuals.
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds; bend, squat, turn at the knees, pivot, and grasp with both hands.
Ability to use appropriate techniques and tools, including a Hoyer lift, to lift and carry individuals.
Ability to assist individuals with ambulation using physical assistance, a gait belt, or other equipment where necessary.
Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
Ability to push, pull, and maneuver adults in wheelchairs.
Verbal and written English communication skills sufficient for regulatory documentation.

Nice To Haves

SCIP-R certification.
CPR certification.
SFA certification.
Medication certification.

Responsibilities

Deliver and document services, supports, safeguards, behavioral documentation, and activities identified by the ISP/CFA and Day Habilitation plan.
Complete monthly notes for assigned individuals within the first seven days of the following month, documenting each individual's response to services.
Provide individual-specific personal care as required, including assistance with toileting, transferring, changing needs, handwashing, and oral care.
Document findings on appropriate forms, including skin integrity, bowel, and repositioning charts.
Maintain active engagement and appropriate communication with staff and individuals served.
Administer medications and complete related documentation accurately and on time.
Build trusting, friendly rapport with individuals while maintaining professional boundaries.
Interrupt and immediately report suspected abuse to administration as a mandated reporter.
Keep the center safe, clean, age-appropriate, comfortable, and in good repair, inside and out.
Demonstrate proficiency in the goals and skillsets outlined in the NYS DSP Core Competencies.
Transport individuals receiving services in agency vehicles with capacity of up to 14 passengers.
Keep required trainings and certifications current and seek additional support or training when needed.
Demonstrate professionalism, respect, teamwork, unity, and a commitment to excellence.
Support the agency's vision and mission.
Follow the agency Code of Legal and Ethical Behavior and perform responsibilities according to ethical and legal standards.
Follow agency policies and procedures and maintain regard for personal safety and the safety of others.
Report observations about individuals' progress and behavior, unusual incidents, and other relevant information.
Perform other appropriate job-related activities as requested by a supervisor or as circumstances warrant.
For Assistant Coordinators, assist the Coordinator with daily coordination, oversight, direct care implementation, program-plan documentation, and daily site operations.
For Assistant Coordinators, take responsibility for the center's concerns in the Program Coordinator's absence.

Benefits

Vacation, personal, sick, and holiday time, or personal and sick time with additional paid time off in accordance with the school calendar.
Medical, dental, and vision plans.
Free Employee Assistance Program available 24/7.
Retirement savings plan options.
Employer-paid life insurance.
Access to Free Will.
Tuition reimbursement.
Career development training opportunities.
On-demand pay with access to earnings as early as the next day.
Staff appreciation events, employee awards, team celebrations, and ongoing recognition of performance and service.