For over 60 years, Abilities First, Inc. has been empowering individuals with developmental disabilities to live their most vibrant, independent lives. From early education to adulthood, our wide range of services—including preschool and school programs, day and residential habilitation, community connections, and employment services—are designed to uplift every individual’s unique strengths and dreams.
We believe in the power of people—of every background, identity, and ability—to create change and build a more inclusive world. Abilities First is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is welcoming and supportive of people of varying abilities, races, ethnicities, religions, socio-economic status, gender and gender identities. At Abilities First, you’ll join a mission-driven team that values collaboration, celebrates individuality, and is dedicated to meaningful work. If you're ready to turn your passion into purpose, we’d love to welcome you aboard.
Position Summary
The Community Prevocational Specialist is responsible for training, supervision and ensuring production quality of assigned individuals (persons receiving services) in work readiness classes and/or community job sites in a positive and creative manner.
**This position will be required to adhere to all assigned site health and safety guidelines and requirements.**
Schedule: Monday - Friday, 7:30am – 4pm with some flexibility needed (40 Hours per week).
Salary Range: $18.12 - $20.12 per hour
Position Standards
- Be familiar with each Individual’s Staff action Plan (SAP). Delivers and documents the services, supports and activities daily identified by the Life plan and the Staff Action Plan. Completes the monthly note and ensure it covers the individual’s response to service within the seven days of the following month for assigned individuals.
- Assumes responsibility for training and supervision of services that assist individuals to maximize the services identified in the Staff Action Plan (SAP).
- Responsible for quality control of all work performed at the work readiness job site and/or classroom.
- Develops a trusting and friendly rapport with individuals served while maintaining professional boundaries.
- Ensure active engagement and appropriate communication with staff and individuals.
- Attends all relevant case reviews, in-services and all other necessary meetings.
- Responsible for transportation of individuals using agency vehicles to and from work readiness job sites and/or classes.
- Provides coverage and assistance as directed in other areas of Employment Services, which may include providing assistance at a job site or otherwise supporting the people we serve with skill acquisition.
- Ensures all required trainings and certifications required are current and seeks further support and training where needed.
- Serve as a liaison between Abilities First, Inc. and community members, including local colleges and learning institutes, businesses, and other organizations the agency may partner with.
- Fulfills mandated reporter role by interrupting and reporting suspected abuse to administration immediately.
- Demonstrates proficiency in all goals and skillsets outlined in the NYS DSP Core Competencies, on which performance will be evaluated.
- Consistently exhibits the qualities of a committed and professional employee including but not limited to: respect toward others, strive for excellence, teamwork and unity.
- Adhere to agency Code of Legal and Ethical Behavior, which require all employees, consultants, board members, volunteers and affiliates to perform their responsibilities according to ethical and legal standards with honesty, integrity, fairness, good faith and respect for others and the law.
- Follows all agency policy and procedures and demonstrates continuous regard to personal safety and the safety of others.
- Performs other appropriate job-related activities as requested by your supervisor or as circumstances warrant.
Perks & Benefits:
- Time to Recharge – Vacation, personal, sick, and holidays built around the school calendar
- Health & Wellness – Medical, dental, and vision plans to keep you covered
- Plan For The Future – 401(k) with employer match and employer-paid life insurance
- Level Up Your Skills– Tuition reimbursement and online training through the College of Direct Support (and to boost your earning potential)
- Get Paid When You Need It – On Demand Pay gives you access to earnings as early as the next day.
