Job Type: Part-Time
Schedule: 20-25 hours per week (M, T, W, TH.)
Location: 535 Curran Highway North Adams, MA

Are you looking for rewarding work with adults with disabilities in the community? As an Agency with Choice Advocate you will provide help with activities of daily living (eating and going out into the community) with socialization and engagement as priorities. Your day may include time spent with the member at one of the UCP drop in centers in North Adams or Pittsfield, in the community, at the home or any other location that both the member and family deem appropriate as you help the member navigate areas of importance such as hobbies, activities or interests in addition to providing guidance around needed life skills. Some afternoon and evening hours are required.  Although experience is preferred, we will train the right person for this role. 
There is an opportunity for additional hours, if desired, to create a full time, benefited position.

Communication Preferences for Member:

• Uses text based communication as a primary method
• Benefits from clear, concise questions and allows additional time to process information before responding
• Prefers interactions with people who have a calm demeanor

Ideal Match:

• Calm, quiet, and gentle with their communication style
• Respectful of alternative communication methods including texting
• Able to provide support without pressure, allowing conversations and interactions to occur at the individual’s pace
• Kind, compassionate, and attentive to non-verbal cues
• Comfortable with periods of silence and able to create a low-pressure environment
• Reliable, consistent, and supportive in building trust and rapport
• Sensitive to allergies and medical needs
• Have some flexibility 

Agency with Choice Advocate Requirements

• ?At least 18 years old with a High School Diploma or equivalent
• Six months of relevant life/work experience with individuals with disabilities preferred.
• Prior experience in direct care, behavioral support, or working with individuals with ASD, developmental or intellectual disabilities preferred. 
• Basic computer skills to enter case notes; communicate by email, video conferencing, etc.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, problem?solve, and follow through on responsibilities.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information
• Strong communication skills—both written and verbal—and the ability to model appropriate behavior and use neutral, professional documentation.
• Ability to work flexible hours when needed in order to accommodate the needs of members.
• Ability to safely perform physical intervention techniques in the event of an emergency as trained in Proactive Approaches to Behavioral Challenges (PABC). 
• Ability to walk, climb stairs, lift and carry up to 10 lbs. 
• Have certification in CPR/First Aid or ability to be certified (training provided) 
• Must have a valid unrestricted driver’s license, proof of insurance, and access to a private vehicle for member transportation.
• Must possess a cell phone capable of installing an approved MFA security app for communication and emergencies.
• Must pass CORI, SORI, DPPC, and national fingerprint background check

?Agency with Choice Advocate Benefits

• Paid time off program
• 403(b) retirement program 
• Mileage reimbursement
• Stipend reimbursement
• Employee referral program and more! 
• About Us:

As part of the UCP affiliate network, UCP of Western Massachusetts offers a variety of community programs and services for persons with disabilities and other similar service needs, including Assistive Technology, Early Intervention, Individual and Family Support, and Adult Family Care. UCP has offices in western Massachusetts and is COA accredited.  UCP of Western MA is guided by a set of core principles - Respect, Integrity, Communication, and Empathy. Our team is dedicated to providing a "Life Without Limits" for people with differing abilities, and we are seeking a motivated and talented individual who shares our commitment to these principles to join us in our mission. Learn more at http://ucpwma.org