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!

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.

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.