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Individualized Support Specialist

Palo Alto, CA

MAKE INCLUSION YOUR MISSION!

We empower people with special needs to achieve their full potential through innovative, inclusive programs and community partnerships.

AbilityPath is looking for talented and resourceful people who believe in the abilities of ALL people, including those with special needs. We offer a diverse and rewarding work environment where YOU can make a difference!

 

AbilityPath is hiring for Individualized Support Specialist.

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of adults with diverse abilities?

JOIN OUR TEAM to facilitate site-based and community integrated group learning activities and empower adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities to lead fulfilling lives.

Compensation: $26-$28/hour (based on education and experience)

Schedule:  Full time opportunity ( 6.5 hour shift between hours 8-5)

WHAT WE OFFER – Employee Benefits

At AbilityPath, we support career development, employee wellness, and recognition. 

  • 4 weeks of PTO 
  • 10 paid holidays
  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits upon hire 
  • 401(k) plan with employer match
  • Performance bonuses
  • Educational reimbursement for ongoing professional development
  • Mileage reimbursement


WHO WE ARE:

AbilityPath is a non-profit organization that provides a lifespan of services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Our mission is to accept, respect, and include people of all abilities. We are committed to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) learning and building an inclusive community.

ABOUT THE ROLE – What we value:

 

  • Personalized Participant Support:
    Provide dedicated 1:1 support to adults with developmental disabilities, focusing on community engagement, social interaction, and skill development in various settings (on-site, virtual, and community-based).

  • Daily Living Assistance:
    Assist participants with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) such as toileting, eating, and self-care, while ensuring safe mobility using equipment like Hoyer lifts and wheelchairs.

  • Behavioral and Skill Development Support:
    Use appropriate behavioral strategies and modifications to enhance engagement and support individual behavioral plans; provide coaching during volunteer work and group/community activities.

  • Progress Tracking and Documentation:
    Monitor and document participant goals, progress, and achievements, maintaining accurate and timely records.

  • Collaboration and Transportation:
    Maintain strong communication with families, caregivers, and community partners; attend trainings and meetings; drive agency vehicles to transport participants as needed.

 

 

EDUCATION AND WORK EXPERIENCE:

Below is a list of education and work experience qualifications. We encourage you to apply even if you may not meet all the listed qualifications and you are interested in joining our team.  

    • B.A. in relevant field (e.g., Human Services, Psychology, Special Education) preferred  
    • Applicable work or volunteer experience  
    • Experience working with individuals with disabilities 

AbilityPath is committed to recruiting and retaining diverse staff; we strongly encourage BIPOC, LGBTQ+ and marginalized candidates to apply! 

HIRING REQUIREMENTS:

  • Valid California Driver’s License/ID and license for at least 3 years if under age of 25
  • Clean driving record of 3 years ( minor infractions ok)
  • Proof of negative TB test results 
  • Verification of occupational physical clearance
  • Pass a criminal fingerprint clearance 
  • 18 years of age or job permit clearance

 

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY:

Accommodations made upon request to Human Resources 

  • Ability to physically respond to adults with developmental disabilities 
  • Ability to frequently lift, transfer, push, and pull up to 45 pounds, and jointly transfer participants (with peer support) which requires bending at the waist and knees. 
  • Ability to sit, stand, stoop, and bend frequently 
  • Ability to walk for extended periods of time and support adults with developmental disabilities on community outings 
  • Ability to drive company vehicles to transport participants 
  • Ability to sit and keyboard as needed 

We encourage applicants to share their access needs during the interview process, upon hire, and ongoing throughout their employment. AbilityPath is committed to making our organization accessible to meet the needs of our team members. 

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY: 

Abilitypath is an equal opportunity employer and makes employment decisions on the basis of merit. We want to have the best available persons in every job. Our policy prohibits unlawful discrimination on the basis of race, religion (including religious dress and grooming practices), color, national origin, gender identity, gender expression, ancestry (including language-use restrictions and possession of a driver’s license), citizenship, physical or mental disability, genetic characteristics, genetic information, marital status, domestic partner status, family care status, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), age, sexual orientation, legally protected medical condition, military or veteran status, or other consideration made unlawful by applicable federal, state, or local laws. AbilityPath will not tolerate any unlawful discrimination against, harassment of, or disrespectful or unprofessional conduct toward an employee based upon any of the protected characteristics listed above or based on the perception that anyone has any of those characteristics or is associated with a person who has or is perceived as having any of those characteristics. All such discrimination is unlawful. #HPAP

 

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