Transitional Human Services Coordinator I

Job Title: Transitional Human Services Coordinator I (260003GS) Location: Lawrence, Massachusetts Overview The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) invites a motivated and talented individual to serve as a Transitional Human Services Coordinator (HSC I). The Coordinator works as part of the Area Office Team, managing a caseload of transitional students aged 18‑22 with Intellectual Disabilities (ID) and/or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Key Responsibilities Acts as the primary contact for individuals and families served by the Department and is expected to effectively represent the Area Office by building respectful and collaborative partnerships with individuals, families, guardians, provider agencies and other stakeholder groups. Meets and assesses newly eligible transitional‑age adults for support needs; provides information and referral support to families and assists families in applying and arranging for these supports. Acts as a liaison with service agencies (e.g., Department of Children and Families, Department of Public Health, Department of Mental Health, Early Intervention, and the Local Educational Authorities). The Coordinator participates in the Individual Education Plan (IEP), Team meetings, and develops Individual Transition Plans. Works with families in the DESE/DDS project who are interested in participating in the Participant Directed Program. The Coordinator works closely with Family Support Centers, plans for supports and monitors those services. Develops and maintains close working relationships with local school authorities and facilitates a stable transition for individuals from school to adult services. Provides information to supervisors and other members of the Area Office Management Team and Regional Office as needed and represents the Area Office effectively. Monitors the safety and well‑being of assigned individuals; provides advocacy in human, civil, and legal rights; facilitates team meetings; monitors follow‑through on team recommendations while maintaining individuals’ records and relevant computer databases and maintains regular consistent contact with individuals, service providers and families. Participates in after‑hours transitional fairs and presentations. Preferred Qualifications Ability to develop and maintain a respectful, caring, tolerant, ethical, and empowering relationship with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Public speaking experience. Special Requirements Some flexibility in schedule is needed to accommodate school‑based IEPs. Other Requirements Must possess a current and valid Class D Motor Vehicle Operator’s License. Schedule Monday‑Friday 8:45 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Days off: Saturday and Sunday. Flexibility may be required to meet program needs. Qualifications First consideration will be given to those applicants who apply within the first 14 days. Applicants must have at least three (3) years of full‑time or equivalent part‑time professional experience in human services work or social work, or any equivalent combination of the required experience and substitutions listed below: Substitutions: A Bachelor’s degree or higher in a related field may substitute for two (2) years of the required experience. For assignments as Qualified Intellectual Disabled Professionals within DDS, a Bachelor’s degree or higher in social work, psychology, sociology, counseling, education for the physically or emotionally handicapped, education for the multiple handicapped, education for the learning disabled, human services, rehabilitation, rehabilitation counseling, nursing, recreation therapy, art therapy, dance therapy, music therapy, physical education, or another related field is required. Based on assignment, travel may be required. Incumbents who elect to use a motor vehicle for travel must possess a current and valid motor vehicle driver’s license at a class level specific to assignment. Equal Opportunity / EEO Statement An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color may self‑select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role. #J-18808-Ljbffr