Early Start Family Resource Network Family Support Specialist

SUMMARY: Under direct supervision of the Early Start Family Resource Network (ESFRN)/Family Empowerment Center (FEC) Manager, provide parent-to-parent support, information, and resources to families and individuals receiving special education services. Responsible for referral input and completion; attending outreach events, trainings and providing presentations; may facilitate parent trainings and group activities. Some travel may be necessary. Has no supervisory responsibility. This is a part-time position working 30 hours per week.

HOURLY RANGE:

SIGN-ON BONUS!

• $250 sign-on bonus after the completion of 90 days of employment at IRC with work performance in good standing.
• $500 sign-on bonus after the completion of 6 months of employment at IRC with work performance in good standing.
• Make sure to tell us if an IRC employee referred you when you get to that question on your application! Please include their full name.
• This incentive is only available for new employees. Rehires are not eligible for the sign-on bonuses.

GENEROUS BENEFITS PACKAGE AND EMPLOYEE PERKS:

• To view our benefits package and employee perks, please click

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide support, information and resources to families who have children and individuals receiving, or attempting to receive special education services, and maintain timely follow up contact.
• Assist families and individuals with navigating the special education system and alternative community service options by identifying areas of need and problem solving.
• Support families and individuals to improve communication and empowerment skills to increase the effectiveness of professional partnerships and collaboration.
• Complete referral forms for all requests and accurately enter and update information into database in a timely manner.
• Ensure confidentiality of all family and individual client information.
• Demonstrate sensitivity to working with culturally, economically and/or socially diverse populations.
• Develop/facilitate parent trainings, activities, and support groups either virtually or in-person.
• Assist with outreach and child find activities by attending resource fairs and other community events.
• Serve as liaison to community partners and education agencies by attending community advisory meetings.
• Maintain open lines of communication with community and professionals and assist families and individuals to resolve conflict at the lowest level possible.
• Provide presentations to community partners by sharing lived experiences and information regarding services and activities provided by the ESFRN.
• Attend staff meetings and professional development trainings.
• Seek to maintain current and relevant knowledge base.
• Use office equipment appropriately and keep it in good repair. Keep work area neat and orderly. Observe all safety rules.
• Work cooperatively and effectively with others. Perform as a member of the team, answer questions, share expertise and contribute to the harmony of the team.
• Handle change well and be flexible and adaptable in dealing with interruptions, new priorities and new assignments.
• Maintain good attendance and punctuality.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Keep manager informed of pending work, work in progress and problems encountered.
• Utilize agency’s IT systems as assigned, maintaining security and following agency’s protocol and procedures, rules, and requirements.
• Comply with and ensure program compliance with agency’s Personnel Policies and Procedures.
• Assure that consumers’ rights and dignity are maintained in the provision of services.
• Perform different or additional work as assigned.

MINIMUM POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Parent or family member of a child with special needs, who has received special education services is preferred.
• One year of experience is preferred in childhood development, navigating community services, working or volunteering in a community setting and experience in working in a collaborative fashion with a diverse group of parents, families and professionals.
• Extensive knowledge of the special education system and dispute resolution options.
• Knowledge of the developmental disability system and related services.
• Proficient knowledge of Microsoft Office products and ability to type accurately.
• Must be self-motivated and able to work independently.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Full use of an automobile, possession of a valid California driver's license and liability insurance for the minimum amount prescribed by law or ability to provide for independent transportation. Must have and maintain a safe driving record.
• Bilingual preferred.

We are proud to be an EEO employer. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing.