Job Description

Reports to

Job Developer and Coaching Team Leader

Schedule:

Monday through Friday 9am-5pm, with flexibility based on the need of the program.

Pay Rate: $22.00/hr

Benefits:

401(k)

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Life insurance

Flexible Spending Account (FSA)

Paid time off

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.

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/

Why Work with Us?
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.

Your Experience Matters
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.

What You’ll Do

• 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.

Requirements

This Role Could Be a Great Fit If

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

ILI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to a person's race, religion, creed, color, sex, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, disability status, sexual orientation, marital or familial status, pregnancy, reproductive health decisions, military status, veteran status, predisposing genetic characteristics or carrier status, domestic violence victim status, citizenship or immigration status. arrest or conviction record or any other status protected by federal or state law.