Self Direction Specialist

The Self-Direction Specialist works closely with Office of People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD)-eligible individuals, their families, and their Circle of Support team. They provide quality assurance and administrative support related to Self-Direction services. Additionally, the Self-Direction Specialist works collaboratively with the Self-Direction services team, and STIC's FI (Fiscal Intermediary) Director to ensure that a high-quality, person-centered program is provided to all individuals served.

Associates Degree in Human Services, or related field

• Experience working with individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) and their families.
• Proficient in the use of all Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Demonstrate professional work habits including dependability, time management, independence and responsibility.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Knowledge of ethical and professional responsibilities and boundaries.
• Must be detail oriented and can multi-task.
• Strong commitment to the independent living philosophy, Person Centered Planning, consumer choice and integration of people with disabilities into all aspects of community life.
• Ability to effectively interact and work with individuals from diverse cultures and backgrounds.
• Valid Drivers License and reliable vehicle.

• Conduct intakes and onboarding for new participants enrolling in STICs OPWDD Fiscal Intermediary services.
• Review all service documentation for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with OPWDD, Medicaid, and FI requirements, including billing documentation for each individual, Self-Hired Staff (SHS), and brokers.
• Participate in team, circle-of-support, and required annual and semi-annual Life Plan meetings to discuss issues related to self-directed staffing and/or supports and budget expenditures as appropriate.
• Ensure that current budgets, invoices, budget amendments, and Staff Action Plans for individuals receiving services are developed, distributed, and maintained in accordance with agency standard and OPWDD rules and regulations.
• Generate and review monthly expenditure and budget utilization reports; monitor all costs associated with budgets and address with individuals receiving services and their broker, as necessary.
• Review and process timesheets and mileage/expense reimbursements for Self-Hired Staff.
• Act as liaison between individuals receiving services, their advocates, brokers, and Care Managers to support coordination, communication, and continuity of services.
• Support individuals in developing, managing, and modifying self-direction budgets, ensuring appropriate allocation of funds for services, staffing, and other supports. Monitor and review budget utilization to ensure financial compliance and proper use of self-directed funds.
• Assist individuals with the recruitment, hiring, training, and supervision of their SHS, in accordance with self-direction principles and FI guidelines.
• Comply with all STIC policies and procedures, as well as applicable state and federal laws and regulations.
• Occasionally work a flexible schedule that may include early mornings, evenings and weekends.
• Collect and maintain all required statistical and other data and prepare reports within established time frames.
• Attend all mandatory agency and departmental trainings, meetings, and sign language class and advocacy groups.
• Perform all other duties relevant to the position as assigned.

• Ability to sit/stand througho t day to accomplish job.