Family Support Specialist (Case Manager), Developmental Disabilities Program

Bridges Homeward • Cambridge, MA

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About The Position

The Family Support Specialist is a member of Bridges Homeward’s Developmental Disabilities Program team. The role supports families, children, youth, and adult family members referred by the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) in developing life skills, setting and achieving goals, accessing resources, and participating in community activities. The position includes assessing family and client needs, providing strength-based support, advocating for clients and families, and coordinating with their service providers and other supports. Basic Spanish-speaking ability is preferred but not required.

This entry-level position is expected to start in June. Bridges Homeward operates a 33.5-hour, 4.5-day work week and describes its workplace as a supportive team environment.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, education, or a related field; three years of experience working with families, children, and adults with developmental disabilities may substitute for the degree.
• At least one year of experience working with families, children, and adults with developmental disabilities.
• Demonstrated ability to provide case management to families, including assessing needs.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Nice To Haves

• Basic Spanish-speaking ability.
• Familiarity with positive behavioral techniques and ABA principles.
• Familiarity with special education.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and schedule parent and caregiver trainings.
• Collaborate with Bridges Homeward staff to develop and coordinate family activities and programs for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.
• Advocate for clients with developmental disabilities and their families.
• Facilitate communication with clients’ collateral contacts, including DDS, schools, medical providers, in-home providers, and therapists.
• Partner with families to understand and meet their needs through strength-based support.
• Assess client and family needs through referrals from DDS.
• Assist families in managing funds allocated by DDS.

Benefits

• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick, personal, and wellness days.
• Medical and dental coverage.
• 13 paid holidays.
• Life insurance.
• Short- and long-term disability coverage.
• Financial coverage for social work licensure and professional development, including access to CEUs for those who need them.
• Tuition remission for undergraduate classes.
• Staff-driven and staff-led committees, including a Young Professional Committee and a Recognition and Activities Committee.
• 33.5-hour, 4.5-day work week.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level