Job Information
Pathlight Group Autism Specialist I - DESE Program in Northampton, Massachusetts
AREA: Based in Hampshire and Hampden Counties, with travel to Franklin and Berkshire Counties. Autism Specialist I - DESE Program This diverse position is focused in our DESE Program. This program partners with families to create and coordinate supports within the family home and is highly collaborative with other team members. Specialists are the glue and the lead person on assigned cases, with high satisfaction in seeing all aspects of growth for the individual and those around. Strong administrative skills required as this role requires budget tracking, data collection, time management, prioritization skills and program monitoring/reporting. This is a regional program requiring this position to travel throughout all of western Ma with assignments in Berkshire, Hampden, Franklin and Hampshire counties, as well as the North Quabbin area. SUMMARY OF POSITION: Responsible for performing a variety of duties to support families with children with autism by providing training, information, family contacts, and referrals to other agencies; educate the community regarding autism; provide family support; work with community agencies to integrate children with autism; assist in the maintenance of the resource center in compliance with Pathlight and Autism Connections. Essential Job Functions: Provide support to families! Get to know families and children with autism; makes family visits; develop support plans/ intervention strategies; provides information on resources and services; maintain contact and ongoing support as needed; connect families with other families for support; maintain files and records. Work with family and staff to promote community integration. Works with funding sources to plan and coordinate the delivery of support services to families; monitors the implementation of the services; maintains liaison with the family as needed. Responsible for timely and accurate data entry. Develop and track family contracts and budgets. Keep current with developments in the field through reading trade journals and books, attending workshops and webinars. Coordinate hiring, training and scheduling of therapists, skills trainers and respite workers. Provide information, education and training on autism and community integration: may help plan and implement conferences and workshops; speak before community groups about autism; plan and coordinate family support/resource meetings; contribute to newsletter. Maintain liaison and coordinate with other agencies (e.g., meets with DDS, CBHI, serve on committees, etc.). Assist Program Managers and Director in development of organization procedures and best practices to improve program efficiency and quality of services. POSITION AVAILABILITY: Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm with flexibility to meet programmatic needs and adjusting hours as needed. AREA: Based in Hampshire and Hampden Counties, with travel to Franklin and Berkshire Counties. QUALIFICATIONS: Broad knowledge of a discipline involving the use of a broad theoretical knowledge equal to a complete 4 year college education. Knowledge of autism and treatments. Over 1 year up to and including 3 years working with children/adults with autism and their families. Requires valid driver\'s license and reliable transportation/vehicle.