Habilitation Specialist, Day Hab

Job Description

Job Description

Description:

The Habilitation Specialist, Day Hab shall assist the Day Hab Assistant Director in managing the day-to-day operation of the Day Habilitation program, Open Vistas. This includes the free-standing day habilitation site, individual day habilitation cases and day habilitation without walls programs. Candidate shall assist in overseeing the development and growth of the programs with an emphasis on quality and diversity of individualized activities and experiences. Shall be responsible for the safety and wellbeing of all the people we serve while in attendance at the program or in the community.

There is a direct relationship of the success and growth of the program to the variety and creativeness of the program activities developed. The Habilitation Specialist, Day Hab will embrace the forward thinking ideologies of Adapt of HV and OPWDD in the movement of individuals from more restrictive and isolative environments to those which foster free thought, individuality and independence. ALL plans developed by the Habilitation Specialist, Day Hab will embody these tenets.

II. ORGANIZATIONAL RELATIONSHIP

The Habilitation Specialist, Day Hab (with another DayHab Specialist) oversees two DSP Shift Leaders whom, in concert, oversee approximately 18 Direct Support Professionals (DSP). These staff work on-site and off-site in “without walls” community integrated programs.

Supervision of the Habilitation Specialist, Day Hab is provided by the Assistant Director, Day Habilitation who is in turn overseen by Director of Community Services.

III. REQUIRED DUTIES

1. Will provide assistance and support when needed beyond specific duties; will perform those duties and responsibilities as assigned by the Assistant Director of Day Habilitation.

2. Shall be responsible for the safety and welfare of all individuals in the program by

following OPWDD, Justice Center and Adapt of HV guidelines and policies.

3. Shall be sensitive to and respect the individual rights, physical and emotional needs of each person and recognize the importance of communicating these needs both verbally and in writing to the appropriate support staff.

4. Shall work with the individuals’ therapeutic team in the development of habilitation plans, behavior plans and safeguards; will be tasked to gather pertinent data and prepare the written habilitation plans.

5. It is the responsibility of the Habilitation Specialist, Day Hab to work closely with the Assistant Director in researching and locating resources in the community. The Habilitation Specialist, Day Hab will have a working knowledge of the community and willingness to cultivate and partner with community entities such as local businesses, civic groups, and national organizations.

6. Shall maintain open lines of communication between DSP Staff, Medicaid Service Coordinators, Management, Clinical, Family Advocacy, Nursing, Quality Assurance, and families.

7. The Habilitation Specialist, Day Hab shall maintain strict fire safety protocols and maintain the fire plan performing regular fire drills in accordance with state regulations.

8. The Habilitation Specialist, Day Hab will monitor and maintain proper staffing levels. Candidate will administer positive coaching when required and active discipline if necessary. Shall evaluate staff performance and recommend disciplinary action to the Assistant Director of Day Habilitation.

9. Shall successfully complete the required Medication Administration Certification course and oversee the administering of medication according to physician's orders. The Specialist will work with the Licensed Practical Nurse in monitoring all aspects of medication administration and documentation.

10. Shall assist in ensuring that all mandatory agency in-service and annual trainings are scheduled for self and all staff.

11. Shall be responsible for fiscal management and timely reporting to the Finance Department. Will monitor and reconcile petty cash funds, consumer funds and file reports to the Coordinator for approval.

12. Shall assist monitoring billing on a daily basis and ensure monthly notes are done, on-time and with quality within their respective caseloads. This is accomplished through specified caseloads that the Assistant is responsible for.

13. Shall attend all required meetings; administrative, ISP reviews, and agency functions as required and assigned by the Assistant Director of Day Habilitation.

14. Shall participate in regular, scheduled monthly meetings with all staff as overseen by the Assistant Director.

15. Shall serve as liaison between the program and residential sites, families and advocates.

16. Shall assist overseeing the use of agency vehicles, maintenance and all required documentation.

17.Regularly checks business email for agency notifications and announcements 

18. Employees may be mandated to work beyond their scheduled shift based on operational needs.

19. Orientation and training will be conducted at the agency Headquarters in Middletown.

1. Have the ability to speak, read, and write English fluently which allows full communication with people served; Adapt of HV staff; and, 3rd parties.

2. Have the ability to relate appropriately to individuals with developmental disabilities.

3. Bachelor’s Degree preferred but not required. 

4. Prior experience working with similar population.

5. Possess computer proficiency, particularly with Microsoft Office applications and the ability to learn to use Medisked and other database systems.

6. Prior experience in a supervisory position

7. Have the ability to use sound judgment while following Adapt of HV policies, practices and procedures.

8. Have the ability to operate office equipment (including computers).

9. Possess a valid driver license with a driving record acceptable to Adapt of HV's insurance carrier and possess the ability to travel to all Adapt of HV sites throughout the areas we serve.

10. Successfully meet all screening requirements (both prior to hire and during employment) as required by applicable regulation.

All FT Direct Support Professionals must be approved Medication Administration Personnel (AMAP) at time of hire or will be completely trained and certified by the agency within the first six months of employment. 

Nonessential Skills and Experience: 

1. Possess knowledge of and experience with American Sign Language to communicate effectively in the language of the deaf.

2. Have a working knowledge of the community and willingness to cultivate and partner with community entities such as businesses, civic groups, and national organizations.

3. Prior work experience using Medisked (or similar databases).

Physical Demands and Work Environment:

The physical demands described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

Rate: $20.00 - $22.00 per hour