Independent Living Specialist

Independent Living•Middletown, NY

19h•$24

About The Position

Independent Living Specialist Middletown, NY Reports to: Middletown Program Manager Schedule: Monday – Friday 9:00am – 5:00pm Pay Rate: $23.90/hr Benefits: Paid holidays from the first day of employment Paid lunch break About Independent Living, Inc. Since 1987, Independent Living Inc. (ILI) has been increasing access, encouraging self-determination, and advocating for the rights of people with disabilities in 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 and community members’ lives are enriched by having services provided from a peer, life-experience perspective. Why Work with Us? We’re a mission-driven organization that believes in the power of choice, community, and connection. In this role, you’ll make a real difference in people’s lives every day; helping them gain greater freedom and control in how and where they live. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, especially those with experience navigating systems of care. Independent Living, Inc. offers full-time employees excellent medical, dental and vision benefits, company matched 401(k), paid holidays, generous paid time off, and competitive wages. To apply, visit us at https://www.myindependentliving.org/careers/ We strongly encourage individuals with disabilities and those with diverse backgrounds to apply. Your Experience Matters Are you passionate about helping others build meaningful, self-directed lives in their own communities? We're looking for a compassionate and resourceful Independent Living Specialist to support individuals transitioning to independent living as they move into homes of their choice through the Olmstead Housing Subsidy (OHS) and Rapid Transition Housing Program (RTHP). In this role, you’ll help people build lives rooted in independence and community by ensuring they have the right supports in place. You’ll work one-on-one with people as they move out of institutional settings and into homes of their choosing, connecting them to the services and resources they need to thrive. Ultimately, you’ll act as a trusted connector, linking individuals to local services and resources, throughout Orange and Dutchess counties, that promote long-term stability and well-being. If you're someone who believes in inclusion, dignity, and the right to live independently, we’d love to hear from you.

Requirements

You have a high school diploma or equivalent.
You have a valid driver’s unrestricted license and reliable transportation.
You have a strong belief in self-determination and independent living for people with disabilities, along with a commitment to inclusion and equity.
You have experience helping people transition from institutional care to independent living is a plus.
You have knowledge of affordable and accessible housing, local and state housing policies, and services that support seniors and people with disabilities.
You have flexibility, compassion, and the ability to respond to changing needs with a positive, solutions-focused mindset.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree (preferred), relevant experience or a combination of education and professional experience will be considered.
You are familiar with Medicaid services and community-based supports is strongly preferred.
Knowledge of Orange and Dutchess Counties resources and community programs.
Strong communication skills (written and verbal).

Responsibilities

Support individuals on their journey to independence by developing and delivering personalized Independent Living Plans (ILPs) that reflect each person’s goals, strengths, and needs.
Connect people to vital community resources—such as transportation, budgeting support, healthcare services, and other daily living supports.
Conduct home visits to help assess needs, implement plans, and make ongoing adjustments as needed.
Collaborate with care teams including Housing Specialists, Transition Coordinators, Care Managers, and natural supports to ensure a strong foundation is in place for a successful move and sustainable independent living.
Build relationships with local service providers, hospitals, nursing homes, and managed care organizations to ensure smooth referrals and strong community connections.
Document your work clearly and accurately using a statewide project database to track services and outcomes.
Stay informed and grow professionally by attending training and taking on other responsibilities that support the success of the people we serve.