Family Support Specialist

Benchmark Human Services has grown to become one of the most respected organizations in the country in the areas of intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and behavioral health. We work with people at home, work, and in the community through residential, employment, crisis response, recovery, behavioral, children's services, and day services.

In 2025, Benchmark Human Services celebrates 65 Years of Stories ! Since 1960, Benchmark has been empowering marginalized populations to see their potential. We are committed to realizing the full potential of Everyone – those we serve, our partners, and vendors, and our employees who bring our mission to life each day. We actively strive to be a workplace that honors the unique experience of our employees. Benchmark believes we are stronger, better, more effective in our pursuits when we are diverse; when we are equitable; and we create space for everyone to be their authentic selves.

The Family Support Specialist will assist and enable infants, toddlers and their families to have access to services provided under Montana’s early intervention program, Montana Milestones, and Family Education Services (FES). This person will also fulfill the role of FSS for the purpose of Part C and FES definitions.

Learn more about Benchmark Montana Milestones by visiting: Benchmark MT Milestones

Qualified candidates must reside in or near Missoula, MT.

Introducing First Steps Forward! Our Missouri First Steps System Point of Entry (SPOE) program has launched First Steps Forward , an inspiring new podcast co-hosted by Regional Directors Christina Narasimhan and Howard Smith. This podcast is designed to empower parents of children with disabilities and developmental delays by sharing helpful information, valuable resources, and meaningful support. Tune in and learn more! Follow Missouri First Steps on Facebook for updates and podcast information: STL First Steps

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Life insurance.
• Mileage reimbursement.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Paid Time Off and Sick Time Pay.
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA).
• Advancement opportunities.
• 401k with company match.
• Employee discounts with various vendors.

Responsibilities

• Function in intake and/or ongoing coordinator role.
• Assist the with eligibility determination, including referral, intake and eligibility determination activities.
• Conduct the family assessment, including interviewing the family.
• Collect information on the child’s development, including observations of the child.
• Coordinate evaluations and assessments.
• Inform parents of their parental rights.
• Assist parents of eligible children in planning, meeting, developing, implementing and reviewing an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP).
• Collect the family’s insurance or Medicaid information to facilitate coordination of benefits and services.
• Maintain accurate, complete and timely electronic and paper file records.
• Conduct referrals and other activities to assist families in identifying available services and providers.
• Monitor the delivery of services to ensure the services are provided timely and in accordance with the IFSP.
• Facilitate a transition plan for children exiting Part C.
• Perform child find and provider recruitment activities.
• Coordinate and monitor the delivery of available services.
• Inform families of available advocacy services.
• Communicate and coordinate services with medical and health providers.
• Facilitate the development of a transition plan into, within and from the EI system, including transition to Part B special education, preschool, or other community services as appropriate.
• Assure families are informed of rights, options, and role in the EI process.
• Comply with all standards to assure the health and safety of all staff and clients we serve.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Minimum of Bachelor’s degree in one of the following: Early Childhood Special Education, Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, Child/Human Development, Social Work, Public Health, Sociology, Nursing, Psychology or other State approved degree.
• Meet provider enrollment qualifications for a Family Support Specialist.
• Demonstrate leadership qualities, ability to work as part of a team, and effective communication skills.

Ready to Join Us? If you’re ready to embark on a rewarding career where every day brings new opportunities to make a difference, apply online at Benchmarkhs.com/Careers and select Montana.

EEO and Affirmative Action Employer, Veterans, Women and Individuals with Disabilities encouraged to apply.

Benchmark has provided services for 65 years. Learn more about our 65th anniversary celebration: 65 Years of Stories .

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