PLACER INDEPENDENT RESOURCE SERVICES
11768 Atwood Road #129, Auburn, CA 95603
(530) 885-6100 (in Auburn); toll free 1-800-833-3453;
TTY: (530) 885-0326; FAX (530) 885-3032
www.pirs.org
JOB DESCRIPTION
Systems Advocate
Department: Advocacy
Supervisor: Director of Advocacy & Services
Compensation: $17.85/hour, entry-level
Full-time with benefits
The Systems Advocate primarily engages in community organizing activities for systems change advocacy on issues of significance to people with disabilities. The intent is to engage people with disabilities in systems advocacy. Issues addressed may be local, state or national in scope.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Recruit, organize and provide systems advocacy training to persons with disabilities within PIRS service area; support, encourage and act as liaison between PIRS and the consumer advocates.
- Conduct systems advocacy consistent with PIRS advocacy agenda.
- Work with the Director of Advocacy & Services to develop materials on local, state and national issues, consistent with PIRS’ advocacy agenda.
- Under the direction of the Director of Advocacy & Services, coordinate activities with the statewide Systems Change Network and its hub on issues when consistent with PIRS advocacy agenda.
- Conduct outreach to all constituencies, and travel as necessary to meet with constituents, and attend public meetings, staff meetings, workshops etc.
- Provide public comment – written or verbal – regarding public policy on disability issues, consistent with PIRS advocacy agenda.
- Conduct evaluation activities as directed.
- Maintain appropriate files and documentation; meet deadlines and submit required reports on time.
- Maintain a positive work environment and support the mission and goals of PIRS.
- Other necessary duties as required.
NECESSARY QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor Degree in related discipline, or a combination of education and experience that demonstrates competence to perform the duties of the position.
- Minimum two years of documented successful experience in community organizing.
- Demonstrated knowledge of independent living philosophy and of relevant laws and regulations that protect disability rights such as ADA, IHSS, and Fair Housing Act.
- Demonstrated knowledge of and experience with the legislative process and other strategies for impacting public policy.
- Personal experience with disability preferred.
- Demonstrated experience in effective community relations.
- Excellent communication skills, oral and written, including demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with people having a diverse array of disabilities or who may be culturally diverse. Bilingual skills (English/Spanish) are desirable.
- Demonstrated experience to engage effectively in public speaking in order to present testimony regarding disability issues.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and handle multiple priorities.
- Must be able to travel as required in order to carry out assigned duties.
- Ability to use personal computer systems and software competently, including Windows, word processing, publication and presentation software, data entry and spreadsheets. Prefer experience with Microsoft Office.
- Ability to think clearly, use discernment and tact, and make appropriate decisions.
Qualified Persons with Significant Disabilities are Encouraged to Apply per Federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, Title VIIc
TO APPLY