Job Developer and Coaching Specialist/Direct Support Professional

Independent Living•Newburgh, NY

17d•$22

About The Position

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. 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. Your work helps people discover their strengths and connect with meaningful jobs that improve their lives. You play a vital role in building independence and confidence while creating more inclusive workplaces and communities. We strongly encourage individuals with disabilities and those with diverse backgrounds to apply. In this role, you will help individuals with disabilities find and keep meaningful jobs that match their unique strengths and goals. Using your skills and understanding, you will support each person through every step of the job journey, from discovering their interests to succeeding at work. You do not need a specific degree to succeed here. What matters most is your ability to listen, encourage, and creatively solve problems so each person can thrive. Whether you have formal experience or have learned through life and work, your dedication to helping others is key.

Requirements

You have experience working with people with developmental disabilities or a mix of training and work experience such as teaching, training, or rehabilitation services
You have a valid New York State driver’s license and a clean driving record
You are skilled at building relationships and creatively connecting with others
You are familiar with providing a person-centered approach to services that help people succeed
You can think “outside the box” to create employment opportunities
You use good judgment, work independently, and stay positive and organized even when things get challenging
Your communication skills are strong, and you are comfortable speaking in public.
You are comfortable with basic computer skills, including word processing and spreadsheets
You can travel as needed and work a flexible schedule based on program needs

Nice To Haves

You speak Spanish or American Sign Language (ASL) is a plus

Responsibilities

Develop personalized support that helps people build skills and confidence to reach their employment goals.
Meet with the individual’s support team, such as family and friends, to clarify roles and plan for success before and during job placement.
Guide participants through the Pathways to Employment Discovery process, creating hands-on, customized pre-employment experiences that promote independence and build natural supports.
Complete necessary paperwork and reports for the Pathways program and OPWDD.
Analyze job requirements to identify key skills and workplace needs, including accessibility and accommodations.
Assess individuals’ abilities, interests, and readiness for work through real-world observations and conversations.
Provide ongoing on-the-job support, including coaching and helping to build relationships with coworkers and others in the workplace.
Help participants explore job options based on their preferences and skills, and coach them on resume writing, job applications, travel training, and workplace behaviors.
Teach self-advocacy skills and support participants and employers in resolving workplace conflicts.
Monitor job performance, offer feedback and coaching, and assist participants in improving or finding new job matches if needed.
Support participants and employers to maintain successful employment, including navigating work culture, benefits, accommodations, and transportation challenges.
Keep clear and up-to-date records of all participant and employer contacts and progress.
Recommend improvements to services to better support participants.
Ensure all services reflect the philosophy of independence, empowerment, and self-advocacy.
Help out with other employment programs as needed.