Self-Hired Assistant

Part-time and Full-time opportunities are available.

OPWDD Self Directed Programs provides a person with a developmental disability the opportunity to choose and manage their staff and services that they are provided. The program participants and their circle of support (broker, Life Coach, guardian, etc.) select their staff and work with the staff for mutually acceptable schedule. As a Self-Hired Assistant, you provide support and supervision to the program participant in their own home, out in the community and help them live the life of their choice.

Position Responsibilities

• Models and promotes Person Centered Planning, considering the dreams and goals of person being served.
• Assists in creation of the Self Directed Community Habilitation Plan, cooperatively working as part of the Circle of Support while assisting the person to achieve his/her valued outcomes.
• Provides supervision and assistance to the person ensuring their personal health & safety.
• Teaches life skills including cooking, cleaning, laundry, budgeting, mobility and recreation.
• Assists the person in maintaining a healthy, safe, and independent living environment by identifying hazards or environmental concerns requiring immediate attention.
• Provides transportation to/with the person as necessary.
• Maintains required records including daily notes, timesheets, mileage logs, and incident reports.
• Provides assistance with various assignments including the purchase of food and supplies

Education and Experience

• High School Diploma/GED
• Skills, Knowledge and Abilities
• Knowledge of developmental disabilities.
• Good oral and written communication skills and basic computer skills.
• Must be able to read and write case notes as well as understand written direction.

Certifications / Training

• Must complete all required online trainings upon hire and annually, as needed.

Verifications and Screenings

• Be authorized as an Agency Driver by holding and maintaining a valid NYS Driver’s License and approved driving record according to Agency Policy and Procedure.
• Have and maintain use of personal vehicle for work purposes; travel between work locations and transporting people served;
• Provide proof of insurance as a driver on personal vehicle being used for work purposes.
• Ability to maintain access (internet connectivity) to web based communication systems needed for service documentation, time keeping, reimbursements and communication with Agency via use of personal smart phone, tablet or personal computer.

Physical and Mental Requirements

• Seeing, hearing, walking, sitting, standing, driving, stooping, bending, carrying, stretching, and climbing stairs.
• Lifting up to twenty (20) pounds.
• The ability to exercise independent judgment, ability to concentrate, think, communicate, interact with others and cope with stressful situations and deadlines and manage multiple tasks.