Client Assistance Program (CAP) Advocate

Job Description

Job Description

Though many nonprofit organizations have experienced unexpected changes in the past year, Disability Rights Texas remains steady in its commitment to protecting and advancing the rights of Texans with disabilities. As we move forward, we are encouraged by renewed stability and are actively expanding our team, with several positions opening across the state.

Disability Rights Texas (DRTx) is happy to announce that we are currently recruiting for a Team Advocate position for our Client Assistance Program (CAP).

About the Position

The Client Assistance Program (CAP) Advocate provides advocacy services to individuals with disabilities who are seeking or receiving vocational rehabilitation and independent living services. This role supports Disability Rights Texas' (DRTx) in its mission to protect and advance the rights of individuals with disabilities by assisting clients in understanding and enforcing their rights under applicable laws and programs.

Working under the direction of a Program Manager, the CAP Advocate evaluates requests for assistance, manages a caseload, conducts investigations, and provides non-litigation advocacy services. The Advocate develops and implements case strategies, engages in problem-solving and negotiation, and provides referrals and short-term assistance when appropriate.

This role requires the ability to exercise sound judgment, analyze complex situations, and communicate effectively with diverse audiences while ensuring compliance with organizational policies, program requirements, and applicable laws.

Work Environment & Functional Requirements

This position involves regular use of computers, telephones, and communication tools to conduct casework, communicate with clients and stakeholders, and document case activities.

The role requires sustained engagement in communication with clients and stakeholders, which may occur for extended or consecutive periods depending on workload and case needs.

Duties may be performed in a seated, standing, or alternative position. The role includes managing multiple priorities, meeting deadlines, and addressing complex client issues.

Travel within Texas may be required based on program needs.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

Essential Functions

1. Conduct client interviews, gather relevant information, and assess eligibility for services in accordance with program priorities.
2. Investigate complaints, review records, and analyze facts to identify legal and advocacy issues.
3. Develop and implement case strategies for advocacy cases in coordination with supervising attorneys.
4. Manage an assigned caseload, including documentation, follow-up, and case progression.
5. Communicate effectively with clients, staff, and stakeholders regarding case status and advocacy efforts.
6. Provide advocacy services, including negotiation, mediation, and problem resolution to address barriers to services.
7. Prepare written materials, including complaints, reports, and case summaries.
8. Maintain accurate, timely, and complete case records in compliance with organizational and legal standards.
9. Apply relevant laws, regulations, and program requirements related to vocational rehabilitation, independent living services, and disability rights.
10. Provide information, referrals, and short-term services to individuals not receiving extended representation.
11. Develop and deliver outreach presentations, training sessions, and educational materials.
12. Utilize case management systems and technology tools to support service delivery.
13. Prioritize workload and manage multiple responsibilities to meet deadlines and program expectations.
14. Participate in team meetings, training, and organizational initiatives as required.
15. Travel as needed to provide services and support program activities.

Additional Duties

Perform other job-related duties as assigned, consistent with the scope and level of the position.

Core Competencies

• Communication
• Critical Thinking and Judgment
• Client Advocacy
• Collaboration
• Time Management and Organization
• Problem-Solving
• Professional Integrity

Required Qualifications

1. Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Rehabilitation Counseling, Disability Studies, Social Services, or a related field and two (2) years of relevant experience working with individuals with disabilities; or four (4) years of equivalent experience
2. Knowledge of federal and state laws and programs affecting individuals with disabilities, including vocational rehabilitation and independent living services, or the ability to acquire such knowledge within a reasonable period of time
3. Ability to analyze complex issues and develop effective advocacy strategies
4. Ability to communicate effectively in writing, verbally, and through negotiation with diverse audiences, with or without reasonable accommodation
5. Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a dynamic work environment
6. Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team environment
7. Strong organizational, case management, and time management skills
8. Ability to maintain confidentiality and safeguard sensitive information
9. Demonstrated professionalism, sound judgment, and ethical decision-making
10. Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills

Preferred Qualifications

1. Bilingual proficiency (e.g., Spanish or American Sign Language), or demonstrated experience effectively serving individuals with limited English proficiency or communication barriers through direct communication or use of interpretation resources.
2. Certified Rehabilitation Counselor credential.

NOTE: The CAP Advocate preferred qualifications include specific experience in vocational rehabilitation services and/or training toward CRC credentialing.

Join Disability Rights Texas and Ignite Your Passion for Disability Rights Advocacy!

At DRTx we believe in supporting our employees by offering generous leave allocations including personal leave days, vacation hours, and sick leave, ensuring your well-being and work-life balance from day one. We also offer a paid winter break – because everyone deserves time to recharge and reconnect.

DRTx also offers flexible schedules, a generous 401k plan where DRTx contributes 7% of your annual salary (whether you contribute to your plan or not), and health care plans with little to no cost (if choosing employee only coverage). By working at DRTx, you will have the stage to amplify your advocacy for individuals with disabilities.

Join an organization that allows you the opportunity to work alongside people who share your passion. We're proud of our employees, clients, partners, and communities, and we welcome you to be part of our journey towards positive change.

Are you ready to make a difference? Apply now and let's shape a brighter future together!

E-Verify Participation

Disability Rights Texas uses E-Verify to verify the work authorization of all new hires.

Non-Solicitation Statement

Disability Rights Texas (“DRTx”) does not accept any liability for fees for resumes from recruiters or employment agencies (“Agency”), without a binding, written recruitment agreement between DRTx and Agency describing the services and specific job openings (“Agreement”). DRTx may consider any candidate for whom an Agency has submitted an unsolicited resume and explicitly reserves the right to hire those candidate(s) without any financial obligation to the Agency, unless an Agreement is in place. Any email or verbal contacts with any person within DRTx is inadequate to create a binding agreement. Agencies without an Agreement are requested not to contact any hiring managers of DRTx with recruiting inquiries or resumes.