Disability Rights Advocate

RCIL • Utica, NY

12h • Hybrid

About The Position

RCIL is a civil rights organization that offers individuals with disabilities a wide range of independent living and advocacy services through the numerous programs we manage. RCIL is an equal opportunity employer and it is the policy of RCIL not to discriminate against any applicant for employment, or any employee because of age, color, sex, disability, national origin, race, religion, or veteran status.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent is required.
• Two-four years working with people with disabilities.
• Experience working with either aging populations/senior services, or youth services/educational advocacy.
• Knowledge of ADA, IDEA, 504, ACCES-VR, CVMH, SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, Snap, Heap, Welfare reform, Benefit programs, legislative process and issues impacting seniors and people with disabilities.
• Knowledge of Independent Living Philosophy.
• Computer skills.
• Skills in mediation, negotiation, planning, community networking, innovation, collaboration, oral and written communication, flexibility, organization, public speaking, excellent customer service, working with diverse population, outlook and Microsoft programs.

Nice To Haves

• A College Degree is preferred.
• Related experience may be considered in lieu of higher education.

Responsibilities

• Conduct consumer intakes and needs assessments.
• Provide service to assist and support individuals with disabilities to live independently in the community.
• Provide information and referrals to appropriate community resources.
• Work with individuals and agencies to collaborate with businesses and service providers to promote accessibility improvements.
• Educate consumers on self-advocacy strategies and guide them in resolving issues independently when possible.
• Provide Community outreach.
• Support consumers in identifying and addressing barriers to accessibility in homes and public spaces.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of systems, benefits, and community supports relevant to individuals with disabilities.
• Help investigate, document, and chart ADA and accessibility issues in the community along with Systems ADA coordinator.

Benefits

• PTO – vacation (16-24 days a year based on longevity)
• Sick leave 12 days a year
• 13 paid holidays
• Ability to work a 4-day schedule after 6 months on the job
• Multiple work schedules available
• Wellness program with the ability to earn an additional 3 PTO days a year
• 401K with up to 10% employer investment
• Heavily subsidized Health Insurance with co-pays
• Vision and Dental insurance
• Flexible Spending Accounts-Medical and Dependent Care
• Monthly contribution towards dependent care (to offset childcare costs)
• Company paid Life Insurance
• Company paid Identity theft protection (LifeLock)
• Employee Assistance Program
• Family Medical Leave
• Paid Family Leave
• Military Leave
• Bereavement Leave
• Jury Duty Leave
• Bone Marrow and Blood Donation Leave
• Voting Time Leave
• Election Leave
• Leaves for Crime Victims and Domestic Violence Victims
• Eligibility for federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness program
• Free covered parking
• Additional benefits available

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED