Independent Living Specialist
About The Position
The Independent Living Specialist provides personalized in-home and in-community support to help individuals maintain or increase their independence and develop life skills. The role supports multiple people with differing goals and needs, including individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities, mental illness, or complex medical needs. This is a daytime position, not a group home setting. Staff work in one-to-one settings, use their own vehicle to travel between shifts and transport people served, and receive mileage reimbursement. Schedules are full-time or part-time, between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m., and may change according to the needs of the people served. The stated starting rate is $19.50 per hour.
Requirements
- Be at least 18 years of age.
- Have an associate degree in a relevant field or two years of equivalent experience working with people with developmental disabilities and/or mental illness.
- Have a valid driver's license and proof of auto insurance.
- Have a reliable personal vehicle for transporting people served and be willing to drive within a 30-mile radius.
- Have basic computer skills for documentation and communication.
- Be comfortable using technology and have a smart device with adequate data.
- Read, write, and communicate effectively in English.
- Be willing to assist with personal care and activities of daily living.
- Have strong teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Be responsible and reliable, and able to perform job functions without direct supervision.
- Be able to stand, walk, bend, or squat for extended periods and lift up to 50 pounds.
Nice To Haves
- Experience, training, or transferable skills that support success in a direct support role.
- A genuine interest in supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
- Ability to promote independence, community engagement, and person-centered support.
Responsibilities
- Provide one-to-one support in individuals’ homes and in the community to promote happy, healthy, and independent lives.
- Assist with daily activities, including personal care, meal preparation, transportation, housekeeping, and laundry, while fostering independence.
- Maintain a clean and safe environment that supports comfort and individuals’ personal goals.
- Develop skills in areas such as community participation, health, safety and wellness, household management, and adaptive skills.
- Accompany individuals on errands and appointments, and support budgeting and participation in social events.
- Attend team meetings, write progress reports, and help supervisors maintain consistent services and communication with support team members.
- Coach, mentor, and encourage individuals as they work toward their goals.
Benefits
- Medical, vision, and dental insurance for full-time employees.
- Supplemental insurance and life insurance.
- 401(k) with up to a 3% employer match.
- Paid time off that increases with tenure, including PTO donation options.
- National brand discounts.
- Employee referral program.
- Access to Tapcheck to receive up to 50% of pay before payday.
- Career growth opportunities, paid training, and mentorship.
- Mileage reimbursement for travel.
- Paid training and orientation.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Associate degree
