The Support Specialist supports participants across community-based programs by actively connecting and engaging individuals in the community. The Support Specialist participates in a variety of structured employment and/or community based activities to include, but not limited to, social and life skill building, health and wellness, volunteer and employment opportunities, and culture and community inclusion.

Job Title: Support Specialist (6005) FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Position Summary: The Support Specialist supports participants across community-based programs by actively connecting and engaging individuals in the community. The Support Specialist participates in a variety of structured employment and/or community based activities to include, but not limited to, social and life skill building, health and wellness, volunteer and employment opportunities, and culture and community inclusion.

Essential Functions:

• Maintains positive, professional relationships with individuals served
• Supports participants to increase their independence while safely navigating the community
• Assists individuals with skill building and attainment of ISP/service plan goals
• Provides transportation to participants to community activities including performing safe lifts and transfers
• Complete and submit required documentation, which includes daily logs, daily production sheets, goal tracking reports, data collection and employee report of injury using computer technologies and applications for on-line submission and tracking
• Ability to access all modes of transportation including driving and public transportation
• Attend mandatory trainings and meeting as required and assigned
• Actively advocates for participants
• Demonstrates commitment to agency mission and The Way of The Arc in all interactions

Required Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED is required, experience in a relevant human service field preferred
• A valid driver’s license is required
• Acceptable driving record and CORI/Fingerprint checks are required at all times during employment with The Arc of Opportunity
• Ability to transfer, change, shower assist with toileting and all personal care needs of the individuals supported
• Knowledgeable about community resources to better assist individuals served in achieving their goals while seeking to empower and enhance their quality of life
• Fully vaccinated unless in case of medical or religious exemption

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, kneel, bend, carry items, and sustain periods of walking, standing, and sitting
• Ability to physically assist individuals according to their needs and perform physical restraint if necessary

Mental Requirements:

• Communication skills in written and oral English which convey clear and concise information in a professional and respectful manner to individuals supported, family members/guardians, peers, government agencies, community partners and employees
• Functional and situational reasoning to follow policy, problem solve, exercise sound judgment, prioritize multiple tasks, and manage crisis

Comprehensive benefits package including vacation and sick leave, paid holidays, health, dental, life, disability, and 401K. Advancement opportunities.

The Arc of Opportunity is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. Applications from women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are strongly encouraged.

The Arc of Opportunity North Central Massachusetts is a smoke free workplace and campus.