Community Supports Specialist and Options Counselor

*$1,000 sign-on bonus and $100 gas card for eligible new hires*

Under the supervision of the Director of Independent Living Services, the Community Supports Specialist and Options Counselor assists individuals with disabilities in need of long term care services to make informed choices about resources, services and settings based on the consumer’s needs and preferences; provides advocacy that helps create an environment that allows consumers to participate in all aspects of community living through information and referral, advocacy, skills training, peer counselling and transition. 

Bilingual candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.

Essential Job Functions:

• Provide non-biased counseling on the different options available for long term care. Respond in a timely manner to consumer inquiries and questions.
• Provide information and educate the consumer about public, private and informal services and programs that are available. Offer support and guidance in making long term care decisions that will meet the consumer’s personal preferences and goals.
• Assists consumers in navigating the complex system of state, federal and community services, programs and benefits.
• Supports consumers in the application processes of social security disability benefits, housing, MassHealth, assistive technology, home modifications, transportation, etc. and informs the consumers on what to expect during the process.
• Discuss and gather information about the consumer’s medical, physical, emotional, and financial resources.
• Engages in individual, group or systems advocacy for the rights of the persons with disabilities.
• Provides guidance and support through appeal processes.
• Create and maintain case files comprised of contacts, progress notes, and correspondence. 
• Documents consumer visits and contact notes in the program’s database system.
• Complete all documentation required for measuring quality and achievement of outcomes.
• Participate in activities to assist the ADRC in gaining visibility and trust with community agencies, providers and the public. 
• Perform other related duties as assigned. 

Interpersonal Communication:

• Model integrity, personal and professional ethics and maintain confidential consumer and organizational data.
• Maintain a positive working relationship with consumers, co-workers, referral sources and others to achieve positive outcomes.
• Maintain updated computer technology competencies i.e. Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and other applications.

Teamwork and Cooperation:

• Work as an effective team member in a collaborative manner through strong individual contribution and commitment.
• Demonstrate effective communication and problem solving skills, both verbally, written, and in electronic formats.

Workplace Performance and Professional Development:

• Achieves positive consumer relationships within his/her control, and contributes to a positive public image of the overall organization.
• Maintains a positive work setting through planning and effective use of benefit time.
• Commitment to continuous improvement strategies and demonstration of the knowledge, skills and abilities related to this position.
• Participates in continuing education, training, and staff development opportunities.
• Provides formal and informal transfer of knowledge and peer mentoring leadership.

Qualifications:

• Associate degree in a Human Service or a related field and/or relevant independent living experience
• Relevant experience in the field of Health, Social Service, Education and/or Rehabilitation 
• Significant knowledge concerning MassHealth, as well as its programs, services, and eligibility criteria.
• Proficient skills with technology including Microsoft 365, Teams, mobile devices, and applications.
• Strategic thinking skills, active listening, interviewing, and advocacy skills. 
• Strong oral and written communication skills and excellent listening skills 
• Independent travel and reliable transportation required.

Direct Reports:

N/A

Review Policy:

Supervisor will complete performance appraisal with employee at the completion of a six-month probation period.  Job duties and assignments will be reviewed at this time.   Thereafter, performance appraisals will be completed and reviewed annually.

The Northeast Independent Living Program, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and encourages persons with disabilities, women, persons of color, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and veterans to apply for this position. NILP is an organization that advocates for an all-inclusive community free of communication, attitudinal, economic and architectural barriers for all people with disabilities. As part of this commitment, NILP will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations for the hiring process, offer processes, or at any point after the start of employment. If a reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact Bianca Flores at  978-687-4288.