Habilitation Specialist

ADAPT Community Network • New York, NY

6h • Onsite

About The Position

The Habilitation Specialist designs, implements, and monitors individualized habilitation and skill-building programs to support participants’ independence, community inclusion, and personal goals. Under the general direction of the program director or designee, this role provides program leadership by supervising Habilitation Assistants, coordinating service delivery, and ensuring supports are person-centered and comply with ADAPT Community Network policies, OPWDD regulations, and field best practices.

The position involves developing and carrying out individualized plans, supporting participants in program and community settings, coordinating with families and interdisciplinary teams, maintaining documentation, and providing direct personal care and safety support. The Habilitation Specialist also plans activities, guides staff, prepares accessible materials and environments, and may drive agency vehicles for program activities and outings. Compensation is $27.25 per hour after probation. Industry-leading benefits are offered to full-time employees.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Services or a related field.
• At least one year of post-graduate experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities.
• Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills for interacting with participants, families, coworkers, and external partners.
• Strong organizational and teaching skills, including the ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.
• Computer proficiency, including electronic documentation systems and Microsoft Office.
• Ability to safely operate wheelchairs, adaptive equipment, and supportive devices used by participants.
• Ability to model positive, professional behavior and provide leadership to support staff.
• Ability to analyze problems, exercise sound judgment, and determine appropriate corrective measures.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding participant information and agency operations.
• Commitment to ADAPT’s mission and to the nonprofit disability sector.

Nice To Haves

• Valid New York State Driver’s License preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop individualized Day Habilitation plans and goals based on participants’ strengths, preferences, interests, and support needs.
• Implement and monitor active treatment plans on-site and in the community, supporting engagement and progress toward outcomes.
• Supervise, coach, direct, and provide performance feedback to Habilitation Assistants; participate in interviewing, onboarding, training, and progressive discipline.
• Liaise with families, residences, Service Coordinators, clinical teams, and other members of participants’ circles of support.
• Participate in person-centered planning, team meetings, annual reviews, and interdisciplinary discussions.
• Maintain accurate and timely attendance records, data, service notes, progress reports, and other required documentation.
• Use community resources to promote independence, socialization, and community integration.
• Plan and coordinate group and individual activities and assign staff to support their implementation.
• Train and guide Habilitation Assistants on routines, behavior support strategies, program plans, and best practices.
• Prepare and adapt program materials, equipment, and physical environments to meet individual needs and ensure accessibility.
• Participate in required in-service training and maintain current knowledge of program policies, OPWDD regulations, and developments in the field.
• Provide support to other program groups or classrooms as needed.
• Support participants in activities outside the immediate program area, including community outings, gym, and pool; enter the pool with participants when required.
• Assist participants with transportation between buses and buildings, and drive agency vehicles for program activities, appointments, and community outings.
• Provide direct personal care, including feeding, toileting, and hygiene, according to participants’ needs.
• Maintain proactive risk awareness, follow universal precautions, and support health and safety in all environments.
• Maintain confidentiality of participant records, personal information, and agency materials.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Industry-leading benefits for full-time employees; specific benefit types are not listed.
• Paid training.

What This Job Offers

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