Disability Rights Advocate

RCIL

Amsterdam, NY • On-site

$37.86K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Annual Non-Exempt Salary: $37,856

35 Hour work week

Purpose: To be informed of disability regulations and policy in order to provide information, referral and education services directed at increasing the consumer’s self-advocacy skills. Support and engage in advocacy projects within LIFE.

Benefits:

  • PTO – vacation (16-24 days a year based on longevity) Sick leave 12 days a year, and 13 paid holidays.
  • Ability to work a 4-day schedule after 6 months on the job. Multiple work schedules available.
  • Wellness program with the ability to earn an additional 3 PTO days a year.
  • 401K with up to 10% employer investment.
  • Heavily subsidized Health Insurance with co-pays.
  • Vision and Dental insurance.
  • Flexible Spending Accounts-Medical and Dependent Care.
  • Monthly contribution towards dependent care. (to offset childcare costs)
  • Company paid Life Insurance and Identity theft protection. (LifeLock)
  • Employee Assistance Program.
  • Family Medical Leave, Paid Family Leave, Military Leave, Bereavement Leave, Jury Duty Leave, Bone Marrow and Blood Donation Leave, Voting Time Leave, Election Leave, and Leaves for Crime Victims and Domestic Violence Victims.
  • Employees may be eligible for the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness program to have student loans forgiven.
  • Free covered parking.
  • Additional benefits available.

Job Duties:

The successful candidate will be expected to:

  • Complete initial intake and assessments.
  • Provide service to assist and support individuals with disabilities to live independently in the community.
  • Provide information and referrals services.
  • Provide accessibility consultation and technical assistance to agencies, businesses, public spaces, and other places that interact with members of the disability community.
  • Work with individuals to increase accessibility in their homes and/or living space and assist in obtaining appropriate medical equipment.
  • Schedule a minimum of five hours per week for performing Healthy Alliance-related screenings, assessments, & scheduling contracted services.
  • Maintain current knowledge of disability/accessibility laws/regulations.

Education:

  • A College Degree is preferred; a High School Diploma or equivalent is required. Related experience may be considered in lieu of higher education.

Experience:

  • Two-four years working with people with disabilities.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

  • ADA, IDEA, 504, ACCES-VR, CVMH, SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, Snap, Heap, Welfare reform, Benefit programs, legislative process and issues impacting seniors and people with disabilities.
  • Knowledge of Independent Living Philosophy.
  • Computer skills.
  • Mediation, negotiation, planning, community networking, innovation, collaboration, oral and written communication, flexibility, organization, public speaking, excellent customer service, working with diverse population, outlook and Microsoft programs. Bi-lingual a plus.
  • Valid Driver License

Travel Required: Yes, minimal

Location: Utica, NY

RCIL is a civil rights organization that offers individuals with disabilities a wide range of independent living and advocacy services through the numerous programs we manage.

RCIL is an equal opportunity employer and it is the policy of RCIL not to discriminate against any applicant for employment, or any employee because of age, color, sex, disability, national origin, race, religion, or veteran status.




Frequently asked questions

Q: What skills or qualities help someone succeed as a Legislative Advocate?

A: To succeed as a Legislative Advocate, key technical skills include proficiency in policy analysis, legislative drafting, and government relations, as well as knowledge of the legislative process and regulatory frameworks. Soft skills such as strong communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills are also crucial, enabling effective collaboration with stakeholders, policymakers, and the public. These technical and soft skills combined enable Legislative Advocates to craft and advance policy agendas, build coalitions, and influence decision-making processes, ultimately driving meaningful change and career growth in this role.

Q: What is the career path for a Legislative Advocate?

A: A Legislative Advocate's career path typically begins with entry-level roles such as Legislative Assistant or Government Relations Coordinator, where they develop skills in policy analysis, lobbying, and stakeholder engagement. As they gain experience, they progress to mid-level positions like Legislative Analyst or Public Policy Specialist, where they take on more complex policy issues and develop expertise in specific areas. Senior roles, such as Director of Government Relations or Chief Public Policy Officer, often involve strategic leadership, coalition building, and high-level advocacy, providing opportunities for significant professional growth and long-term career advancement.



RCIL job posting for a Disability Rights Advocate in Amsterdam, NY with a salary of $37,856 Annually and benefits including Medical, Vision, Dental, PTO, Life, and Retirement with a map of Amsterdam location.