Independent Living Specialist (Part-time

Niagara Falls, NY. WNY Independent Living. Independent Living Specialist (Part-time). PT. Benefits. $18.00- $20.00/Hour. Closing Date: October 20, 2026 DESCRIPTION: This position will coordinate independent living skills, evaluations and training for persons with disabilities. To assist in the personal adjustment of an individuals disability and maximize community participation. SPECIFIC DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: 1. Coordinate and conduct independent living evaluations for people with disabilities. 2. Inform individuals about various programs that are available to them and assist them in securing and/or maintaining benefits, such as vocational rehabilitation, social services, Medicare, etc. 3. Document which services were requested and received by individual consumers. 4. Provide Independent Living (IL) Core services: Peer counseling, Advocacy, Independent Living Skills Training, Transition supports, and information and referral. 5. Coordinate and/or perform independent living skills, counseling and training. Assist participants in developing Independent Living skills (i.e. mobility & orientation, cooking, cleaning, daily household chores, shopping etc.) 6. Assist consumers in the development of an Independent Living Plan (ILP). Document the development and achievement of IL goals selected by individuals. 7. Provide education and support to family members of individuals with disabilities. 8. Provide assistance to obtain specialized devices and equipment such as wheelchairs and lifts, assistive technology and equipment. 9. Intervene, at the request of the consumer, in crisis situations between consumer and service programs. 10. Coordinate and conduct home and building architectural barrier consultation utilizing federal and state guidelines on disabilities. EDUCATION & TRAINING: Within one (1) year of employment, candidate must complete and maintain certification for Benefits Planners through YTI of Cornell University. Professional and life experience may be considered in lieu of, in full or part of academic credentials. Associate Degree in Human Services or related field OR Bachelors Degree in Human Services or related field KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE (if required): Must have experience related to disability services. Must have working knowledge of people with disabilities and state and federal laws pertaining to the rights of people with disabilities. Associate degree requires two (2) years related work or volunteer experience in a Human Service Field. Bachelors degree requires one (1) year of work or volunteer experience in a Human Service field. SKILLS & ABILITIES: Must have reliable transportation in order to work independently throughout Niagara County. Must have intermediate level of knowledge of computers including the use if Excel spreadsheets, databases, word processing and networks. Perform in a professional, conscientious, and efficient manner for the purpose of ensuring a better quality of life for persons with disabilities. SUBMIT RESUME AND COVER LETTER TO: Human Resources Dept. WNY Independent Living, Inc, 3108 Main St. Buffalo, N.Y. 14214 [email protected]