Life Skills Specialist - Adult Group Home
About The Position
The Life Skills Specialist implements personal goals outlined in individuals’ staff action plans and life plans, and assists the people supported in developing community connections and relationships. The role provides direct services and oversight in an IRA and ensures assigned programs comply with OPWDD regulations. The specialist documents progress, completes monthly summaries and billing requirements, maintains accurate safeguards, and supports person-centered services and independence. The specialist helps individuals build relationships and participate in recreation, access education and community resources, shop at preferred stores, select a pharmacy, and use transportation. The role also supports individuals in understanding medical advice and making informed decisions, attends life plan meetings as needed, and maintains communication with Care Managers. Required certifications include medication certification and CPR/first aid, as well as SCIP/Promote certification for restraint-related duties.
Requirements
- High school diploma or GED.
- At least 3 years’ experience serving individuals with developmental disabilities in a residential setting.
- Intermediate skills in Microsoft Word and Excel.
- Demonstrated writing skills.
- Valid New York State driver’s license with a clean motor vehicle record.
- Ability to work in the community as part of a mobile program.
- Willingness to respond to the needs of a culturally diverse population.
- Ability to adapt positively to changing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Professional, proactive, and courteous demeanor with internal and external constituents.
- Ability to seek and respect others’ opinions, expertise, experience, viewpoints, and limitations.
Responsibilities
- Ensure and monitor implementation of each individual’s Staff Action Plan in the IRA.
- Complete monthly summaries and billing requirements in accordance with OPWDD and Medicaid regulations.
- Support valued outcomes identified by the treatment team in each individual’s Life Plan.
- Document individuals’ progress toward personal goals in staff action plans.
- Ensure individuals’ safeguards are accurate and up to date.
- Provide direct services and oversight to individuals.
- Ensure assigned programs comply with OPWDD regulations.
- Adhere to OPWDD Core Competencies and Code of Ethics.
- Assist individuals in establishing community connections, relationships, and recreational activities.
- Help individuals access education classes and resources that promote independence and relationships.
- Promote person-centered services and independence by assisting individuals with preferred shopping, pharmacy selection, and transportation access.
- Assist individuals in understanding and following medical advice or recommendations, and facilitate education to support informed decisions.
- Attend life plan meetings as needed.
- Maintain medication certification and CPR/first aid.
- Maintain communication with Care Managers as needed.
- Maintain SCIP/Promote certification and be able to perform restraints.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
