ASL Communication Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Communication Specialist – ASL

Employment Type: Part-Time / Full-Time
Service Setting: In-Home & Community-Based Services

Position Summary

We are seeking a qualified  Communication Specialist fluent in American Sign Language (ASL) to provide 1:1 support to an individual with an intellectual disability who is Deaf.

The Communication Specialist will work directly with the individual in the home and community to identify communication needs, improve effective communication, and educate caregivers on strategies that promote independence and successful daily interactions.

Essential Responsibilities

• Assess and identify the individual’s communication needs, abilities, and preferences.
• Provide direct Communication Specialist Services consistent with the individual’s  Individual Support Plan (ISP) .
• Communicate directly and effectively with the individual using  American Sign Language (ASL) .
• Develop and implement strategies to support the individual’s communication in everyday situations.
• Educate caregivers and support staff on effective communication techniques.
• Observe the individual in home and community settings and recommend strategies to improve communication and accessibility.
• Collaborate with Supports Coordinators, Behavioral Specialists, caregivers, DSPs, and other members of the support team.
• Complete required documentation, progress notes, observations, and recommendations in accordance with agency and ODP requirements.
• Promote independence, choice, dignity, and person-centered support.

Education & Professional Qualifications

Candidates must have  education, training, or professional experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Speech-Language Pathology
• Education of the Deaf / Deaf Education
• Sign Linguistics / Linguistics
• Communication Sciences and Disorders
• Special Education
• ASL / Deaf Studies
• Or another relevant professional or educational background related to communication

College degree, professional certification, or other relevant credential in one of these areas is strongly preferred.

Candidates must also have  personal or professional experience working with IDD.

ASL Requirement

Because this position supports an individual who is Deaf, the candidate must:

• Be proficient in  American Sign Language (ASL) .
• Have the ability to sign at an  Intermediate Plus level or above as determined by the Sign Language Proficiency Interview (SLPI) .
• Provide documentation of the required SLPI proficiency or be able to meet applicable credentialing requirements prior to providing support services.

Preferred Experience

• Experience working with individuals with IDD who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing.
• Experience in Pennsylvania’s  Office of Developmental Programs  system.
• Experience providing Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS).
• Experience working as an SLP, Deaf Educator, ASL professional, communication specialist, or related professional.
• Experience collaborating with DSPs, families, and interdisciplinary support teams.

Application Requirements

Please submit:

• Current resume
• Relevant degree, certification, license, or professional credentials
• Documentation demonstrating relevant communication-related education or professional experience
• Documentation of personal or professional experience with individuals with IDD
• SLPI documentation demonstrating  Intermediate Plus proficiency or above , as applicable
• Written reference to indicate personal experience

Pay: $30.00 - $35.00 per hour

Work Location: In person