Transition Specialist (Part-Time)

Independent Living Inc•City of Middletown, NY

47m•$24

About The Position

Transition Specialist (Part-Time) Middletown, NY Reports to: Middletown Program Manager Schedule: 24 hours/week Monday - Thursday 9am – 3pm -or- Tuesday – Friday 9am – 3pm Pay Rate: $23.95 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? At Independent Living, Inc., we believe in the power of inclusion, choice, and community. You’ll be part of a dedicated team making a real difference, helping people reclaim their independence and live meaningful lives in the places they choose to call home. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds, especially those with experience navigating systems of care related to disabilities, caregiving, or navigating institutional systems. 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 someone who believes that everyone deserves the opportunity to live independently in the community of their choice? Independent Living, Inc. is looking for a compassionate, organized, and resourceful Transition Specialist to support individuals, throughout Orange and Dutchess counties, as they move from institutional settings, such as nursing homes, back into the community. This is part of an exciting statewide initiative aimed at promoting choice, dignity, and independence for people of all ages and backgrounds. As a Transition Specialist, you’ll walk alongside individuals and their support systems throughout the transition journey, helping to build a bridge from institutional care to self-directed community living.

Requirements

You have a high school diploma or equivalent.
You have a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
You’re deeply committed to person-centered planning, consumer choice, and empowering people to live life on their terms.
You have knowledge of Medicaid eligibility, 1915(c) waivers, and ideally experience with NHTD, TBI, and/or OPWDD waiver programs.
You understand the challenges faced by individuals in long-term care and are motivated to help them access the resources they need.
You have strong communication and active listening skills, you’re able to support and guide with compassion and clarity.
Have knowledge of community resources, social services, and benefits systems that help make independent living possible.
Have the ability to manage your time well, balancing client meetings, documentation, and coordination with multiple stakeholders.
You are comfortable working independently and as part of a team.
You are proficient in basic Microsoft Office programs and online research tools.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in human services or a related field, and at least two years of relevant experience in long-term care, Medicaid programs, or community-based services is preferred Comparable work experience will also be considered.
Knowledge of Orange and Dutchess Counties resources and community programs.
Strong communication skills (written and verbal)
Experience working with people with disabilities is a plus.
Bilingual or multilingual skills are welcomed and valued.

Responsibilities

Support individuals through the transition process, receiving referrals and ensuring each person is guided from start to finish with care, clarity, and dignity.
Provide information and counseling to individuals and families considering a move back to the community, explaining their options and available services.
Visit institutions to meet with potential participants, offer unbiased information about community supports, and assist with discharge and transition planning.
Connect individuals with peer mentors when appropriate, helping them build confidence through shared experiences.
Create person-centered transition plans that support each individual for at least 90 days, this includes identifying housing options, coordinating services, and ensuring those services continue beyond the initial transition period.
Work closely with the Transition Coordinator to identify and address any barriers; whether medical, emotional, or logistical, to ensure a successful move.
Maintain accurate and timely records in both internal and external systems to track progress and services provided.
Participate in team meetings, trainings, and ongoing professional development to stay current and connected.