Direct Support Professional Job Coach/Developer
About The Position
Since 1987, Independent Living, Inc. (ILI) has been increasing access, encouraging self-determination, and advocating for the rights of people with disabilities throughout the Hudson Valley of New York. Following the traditional independent living center (ILC) model, the majority of ILI’s board and staff are individuals with disabilities, bringing valuable peer and life-experience perspectives to the services we provide. ILI is committed to empowering individuals to live independently and participate fully in their communities. The Direct Support Professional Job Coach/Developer supports individuals with disabilities in obtaining and maintaining meaningful employment aligned with their strengths, interests, and goals. This role provides individualized job coaching, develops employment opportunities in the community, and fosters workplace success through ongoing support, skill-building, and advocacy. Working closely with participants, employers, and support networks, this role plays a key part in promoting independence, confidence, and inclusive employment outcomes.
Requirements
- Experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities or related experience in education, training, or rehabilitation services
- Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships and engage diverse individuals
- Ability to think creatively and develop customized employment opportunities
- Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities
- Effective communication skills, including comfort with public speaking
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
- A positive, solution-focused mindset, especially in challenging situations
- Basic computer proficiency, including word processing, spreadsheets, and documentation systems
- A valid New York State driver’s license with a clean driving record
- Flexibility to travel and adjust schedule based on program needs
Nice To Haves
- Bilingual skills, including Spanish or American Sign Language (ASL)
- Experience with person-centered planning and service delivery approaches
- Knowledge of community employment resources and workforce development systems
Responsibilities
- Provide ongoing, on-the-job coaching and support to participants, including building workplace relationships and addressing challenges or conflicts
- Develop and deliver personalized training and supports to build skills and confidence for employment success
- Collaborate with participants’ support teams, family members, and others to plan for successful job placement and retention
- Assist participants in exploring career interests and identifying job opportunities that align with their strengths and preferences
- Develop relationships with local employers to create and secure job opportunities in the community
- Coach participants in pre-employment and job retention skills, including resume development, applications, interview preparation, workplace behavior, travel training, and self-advocacy
- Monitor job performance and provide ongoing support to both participants and employers to ensure long-term success
- Assist participants in navigating workplace culture, accommodations, benefits, and transportation needs
- Maintain accurate, timely, and detailed documentation of participant progress and employer interactions
- Ensure all services reflect the philosophy of independence, empowerment, and self-advocacy
Benefits
- Paid holidays from the first day of employment
- Paid lunch break
- Paid time off
- 401(k) with company match
- Health, Dental and Vision insurance
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
- Company provided Life, AD&D and Short- and Long-Term disability insurance
- Voluntary insurances including Critical Illness and Hospital Indemnity
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
