Deaf Social Work Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Position Overview:  The Deaf Services Advocate provides direct services, advocacy, outreach, training, and case management support to d/Deaf, DeafBlind, hard of hearing, DeafDisabled, and late-deafened individuals. This position supports consumers through a variety of programs and funding sources including Department of Rehabilitation (DOR), Regional Center, CalAIM, independent living and housing-related services, and other fee-for-service programs.

Essential Duties:

•      Maintains a minimum caseload of 30 active consumers, including CalAIM, Department of Rehabilitation, Regional Center, and other fee-for-service based programming;

•      Remains up to date on funding requirements to ensure that consumers have access to resources which best meet their needs;

•      Provides advocacy, peer support, independent living skills training, housing support, employment-related services, benefits navigation, and resource coordination to d/Deaf consumers based on individualized goals and needs;

•      Provides individuals with self-advocacy tips and/or legal resources related to their individual goals, as needed;

•      Assists consumers with accessing and navigating community resources and public systems including Department of Rehabilitation (DOR), Regional Center, Medi-Cal, housing programs, transportation, healthcare, and other supportive services;

•      Delivers individualized and group trainings, workshops, presentations, and outreach activities related to independent living, employment, housing, accessibility, self-advocacy, tenant rights, and other d/Deaf-related topics;

•      Coordinates and provides services authorized through DOR, Regional Centers, CalAIM, and other fee-for-service programs, including maintaining timely documentation, tracking authorizations, and completing required reporting and billing activities;

•      Maintains accurate, timely, and confidential consumer records, case notes, reports, and data entry in accordance with agency policies, HIPAA requirements, and funding source regulations;

•      Develops and maintains collaborative relationships with community partners, employers, housing providers, shelters, service agencies, and government entities to increase accessibility and opportunities for d/Deaf individuals;

•      Engages in ongoing outreach to specifically inform the d/Deaf community about services offered by DMC;

•      Co-locates at Department of Rehabilitation in Laguna Hills to provide in-person services to shared consumers and collaboration with DMC;

•      If appropriate, offers peer advice and support to consumers;

•      Adhere to established office hours and be present to support daily operations while demonstrating flexibility as needed;

•      Be adaptable to changing priorities and take on additional responsibilities as needed.

Minimum Qualifications:

·         Proficiency in American Sign Language (ASL) communication and a deep understanding of Deaf culture are essential requirements;

·         Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university;

·         At least two-years experience working with people, who are d/Deaf or in a related field;

·         Or an equivalent combination of education and experience;

·         Knowledge of Department of Rehabilitation, Regional Center services, CalAIM, housing resources, employment services, or social service systems preferred;

·         Demonstrated knowledge of various housing options and related legislation;

·         Experience assisting people through stressful life circumstances by providing stability and coping mechanisms;

·         Evidence of computer literacy;

·         Working knowledge of the Independent Living philosophy and methodology;

• Strong organizational, communication, multitasking, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills;
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment managing multiple priorities;
• Ability to perform job functions in a manner that exhibits flexibility, consistency, and professionalism;
• Demonstrated capacity to work under pressure and cope with mental and emotional stress relevant to the position and the work environment;
• Ability to establish and maintain trustful, effective working relationships with a variety of people from diverse backgrounds;
• Possession of a valid California Driver's License, state identification card, and car insurance or evidence of reliable mode of transportation.

Personal Attributes:

• Communicates in a clear, timely, and respectful manner;
• Demonstrate a high level of ethics, integrity, and professionalism;
• Contributes to positive, supportive workplace interactions;
• Demonstrates proactive skills and self-initiative;
• Provides consumer-driven services in alignment with Independent Living Philosophy;
• Enters service data in a timely and accurate manner;
• Follows through on assigned tasks and due dates;
• Maintains a collaborative approach and works effectively as part of a team;
• Receptive to and willing to implement constructive feedback;
• Takes responsibility for communicating issues when they arise (and addressing them when able);
• Proactively shares feedback, ideas, and suggestions for organizational growth;
• Maintains attendance, punctuality, and other performance standards as outlined in DMC's Employee Handbook.