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: $18.50/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

1. 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.
2. Conduct systems advocacy consistent with PIRS advocacy agenda.
3. Work with the Director of Advocacy & Services to develop materials on local, state and national issues, consistent with PIRS’ advocacy agenda.
4. 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.
5. Conduct outreach to all constituencies, and travel as necessary to meet with constituents, and attend public meetings, staff meetings, workshops etc.
6. Provide public comment – written or verbal – regarding public policy on disability issues, consistent with PIRS advocacy agenda.
7. Conduct evaluation activities as directed.
8. Maintain appropriate files and documentation; meet deadlines and submit required reports on time.
9. Maintain a positive work environment and support the mission and goals of PIRS.
10. Other necessary duties as required.

NECESSARY QUALIFICATIONS

1. Bachelor Degree in related discipline, or a combination of education and experience that demonstrates competence to perform the duties of the position.
2. Minimum two years of documented successful experience in community organizing.
3. Demonstrated knowledge of independent living philosophy and of relevant laws and regulations that protect disability rights such as ADA, IHSS, and Fair Housing Act.
4. Demonstrated knowledge of and experience with the legislative process and other strategies for impacting public policy.
5. Personal experience with disability preferred.
6. Demonstrated experience in effective community relations.
7. 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.
8. Demonstrated experience to engage effectively in public speaking in order to present testimony regarding disability issues.
9. Demonstrated ability to work independently and handle multiple priorities.
10. Must be able to travel as required in order to carry out assigned duties. 
11. 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.
12. 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

Complete the PIRS Employee Application Form located here.

Marin Center for Independent Living
710 4th Street, San Rafael, CA 94901
Hybrid work

Reports To: Community Care Administrator

Summary of Job:

The Community Care Navigator (CCN) is responsible for offering care coordination services that address a broad spectrum of social determinants of health. The role will aid consumers in benefits navigation, caregiver-consumer pairing, providing consumers with assistance in completing applications, and maintaining close collaboration with local service providers. The CCN’s role encompasses intake, assessment, and follow-through, all with the ultimate goal of helping consumers achieve their best outcome, which is independent living within the community. The CCN will also support clients through CalAIM ECM and Community Supports.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct client, consumer, and family interviews to assess their situations and determine service and support needs.
• Coordinate and facilitate connections and care for consumers across multiple agencies.
• Provide necessary assistance to consumers, such as tracking benefit changes and referring them to external resources, to ensure service needs and goals are met.
• Actively participate in assigned meetings and contribute to the collaborative efforts of the team.
• Administer pre- and post-surveys and record results in survey platforms.
• Take a person-centered approach, partnering with clients, consumers, and family members to identify needs, develop Independent Living Plans (ILPs), and support individuals in their advocacy efforts to ensure service needs/goals are met.
• Respond promptly to consumers, service providers, and community partners to address inquiries or requests.
• Train and support consumers in self-advocacy skills with a goal of independent self-advocacy and self-sufficiency.
• Maintain complete, organized, and confidential consumer records, ensuring timely data input and well-documented case notes in compliance with federal/state and funder reporting requirements.
• Identify and document success stories to promote organizational learning, create promotional materials, and fulfill reporting obligations.
• Initiate and conduct outreach activities to educate consumers, service providers, and the community about agency services, fostering relationships that result in resources for consumers.
• Stay informed about resources and services available to older adults and individuals with disabilities, enhancing service coordination capabilities through continuing education.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in social services or a related field, or a combination of college education and relevant work experience.
• 2-4 years of professional experience in a related field.
• Experience working with individuals with disabilities and/or older adults, preferably in an Independent Living Center or an aging and adult services organization, or personal experience with disabilities.
• Bi-lingual Spanish English required

Skills:

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Docs applications in a PC environment.
• Understanding and implementation of the Independent Living (IL) philosophy.
• Ability to advocate for people with disabilities and train others in self-advocacy.
• Effective promotion and clear explanation of the services offered by Marin CIL to consumers, businesses, and organizations in the community.
• Strong self-management skills, including good time management and the ability to work well with others.
• Ability to follow direction, exercise initiative, demonstrate ingenuity, and exercise sound judgment in accordance with established policies and procedures.
• Maintaining confidentiality and handling confidential information appropriately.
• Proficiency in Spanish language to offer written translations of English documents, provide oral interpretation for client communication with other organizations, and offer sight translation and content explanations for English documents sent to clients, ensuring their understanding of next steps in accessing social services.

Other:

• This position operates from our office location, offering the potential flexibility for optional 1-2 days a week of remote work, subject to supervisor approval.
• Our standard business hours are from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday, with a designated 1-hour lunch period. We expect all team members to be available and actively engaged in their work during these operational hours unless an alternate schedule has been approved by your supervisor. Additionally, the standard schedule will not exceed 35 hours per week.
• Depending on consumer needs and COVID safety protocols, travel throughout Marin County to consumer homes may be required to assess and facilitate access to programs and services.

About Marin CIL:

Since 1979, the mission of Marin Center for Independent Living is to assist persons with all types of disabilities with achieving their maximum level of sustainable independence as contributing, responsible and equal participants in society.

Marin CIL believes that outstanding people who are committed to, and carry out, our mission are the key to our success. Our mission includes commitment and attention to implementing the Independent Living Philosophy and enthusiasm for the vision and tasks of changing the position of people living with disabilities in Marin County (and the State and country).

Marin CIL is also part of the One Door service delivery model which includes their partnership with the county of Marin Aging and Adult Services.

EEO Statement:

Marin Center for Independent Living is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment. We strictly prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

We strive to create an inclusive and diverse work environment where everyone is treated with dignity, fairness, and respect.

We are dedicated to fostering a workplace culture that celebrates individual differences and promotes equal opportunities for all. Our commitment to equal employment extends beyond compliance with legal requirements and guides our everyday practices. We value the contributions and perspectives of each team member and believe that a diverse workforce enhances our ability to achieve our mission effectively.

Marin Center for Independent Living is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing a work environment free from discrimination and harassment. We encourage qualified individuals from all backgrounds to apply for employment with our organization and join us in our pursuit of creating a society that respects and embraces diversity.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $29.00 – $29.50 per hour

Expected hours: No more than 35 per week

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: Hybrid remote in San Rafael, CA 94901

Job Description:

Under direct supervision of the Program Manager, the Disability Disaster Access &
Resources (DDAR) Coordinator is an entry-level position that facilitates all activities and
functions CID’s DDAR Program to ensure the goals and objects specified for the program
are accomplished in accordance with established priorities, timeframes, funding
limitations, and other specifications.

CID offers a flexible work environment that fosters community.

We provide competitive benefits, including:

• Starting at $24/hr., Full-Time, Program is based on funding availability.
• Great 401K Retirement Plan, CID matches it with up to 6%
• Great healthcare package, CID paying 100% of the group plan premium
• For Dental & Vision Insurance plans, CID pays 100% of the group plan premium
• Two weeks of paid vacation that increases upon years of service
• 16 days of paid sick leave per year, accrued incrementally per pay period
• Free life insurance, AD&D, and long-term disability insurance
• 13 paid holidays per year

Specific Duties Include:

1. Implement deliverables according to the Disability Disaster Access & Resources
   (DDAR) Center Agreement.
2. Conduct community outreach and marketing initiatives via multiple platforms (in
   person, online and print mailers) to spread awareness about the PG&E Medical
   Baseline Program and the Disability Disaster Access and Resources Program and
   various San Mateo County Emergency Preparedness and Community Resilience
   Programs as indicated in the agreement listed above.
3. Provide community education on Emergency Preparedness topics. Cultivate
   relationships, collaborate, and partner with County Offices of Emergency Services
   and other emergency service providers, as well as other Community-based
   organizations within San Mateo County.
4. Maintain a list of San Mateo County residents who require electricity to power
   devices.
5. Maintain associated consumer and inventory databases including but not limited
   to CilSuite, NATADS, Microsoft Teams, etc…
6. Maintain an inventory of batteries and deploy to consumers during power outages.
7. Maintain CID’s DDAR webpage information.
8. Complete needs assessments for individuals with Access and Functional Needs
   (AFN) for preparation before and during Public Safety Power Shutoffs and other
   outage events.
9. Assist Consumers with the creation of Individualized Emergency Plans.
10. Coordinate resources such as hotel reservations, food vouchers, and back up
    batteries to individuals with AFN during Public Safety Power Shutoffs.
11. Serve as primary contact during an emergency power shut-off situation. Be able
    to respond to consumer requests quickly during a power shut off situation.
12. Remain available from 7:00 am – 7:00 pm, Monday – Sunday, including holidays,
    if required, during the activation of the Emergency Operations Center during times
    of high risk for power outages to respond to Consumer needs for support.
13. DDAR Program reporting to CID management and funders.
14. Represent CID in State-wide DDAR meetings and events, and other communitybased
    events pertaining to Emergency Preparedness.
15. Other duties as assigned.

Skills and Experience:

1. Experience is preferred in the areas of project coordinating, emergency
   preparedness, public administration, adult education training or closely related
   areas. Relevant job, volunteer or previous internship experience; Field experience
   in a public safety discipline.
2. Must be willing to travel to work and various locations in San Mateo County, and
   other locations for program and meeting related events.
3. Must be highly motivated, customer focused and work well in a team environment.
4. Good oral and written communication skills essential; ability to make presentation
   before both small and large audiences.
5. Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, communicate effectively both
   orally and written and provide empathy in difficult interpersonal situations.
6. Must maintain valid driver’s license and a satisfactory driving record. Ability to drive
   a vehicle; able to transport self to various client locations; able to lift large size
   object such as projectors, back-up batteries, equipment, boxes, and storage bins,
   etc…
7. Most of the work will be performed in an office. However, occasional travel to
   various locations within San Mateo County will be required.
8. 7.5 hours daily average (sometimes unpredictable long hours); Monday-Friday
   with potential needs for weekends; must be willing to be on call during emergency
   Public Safety Shut off Events and other high-risk for outage events.
9. Ability to communicate effectively with a broad range of people including funders,
   consumers, media, human service agencies and government entities.
10. Excellent public speaking skills, the ability to present information in a clear,
    articulate, logical and organized manner.
11. Bilingual-bicultural strongly preferred.

To apply:

Visit the CID website at www.cidsanmateo.org to review the job description, Email Program Manager Anisa Escobedo at [email protected], and submit a resume and cover letter. No phone calls are allowed. Persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. EOE

Center for Independence of Individuals with Disabilities (CID) is an equal opportunity and affirmative
action employer. Reasonable accommodation provided on request to persons with disabilities in
the application and interview process as well as in employment.

Center for Independence of Individuals with Disabilities (CID) is wheelchair accessible and provides
reasonable accommodations on request, including ASL interpreters and print information in
alternative formats. CID is a scent-free office in order to be fully accessible to all persons with
disabilities.

Placer Independent Resource Services

11768 Atwood Rd., #129, Auburn, CA 95603
530-885-6100; TTY 530-885-0326; FAX 530-885-3032
www.pirs.org

Job Description

Independent Living Advocate II
Full time, Non-exempt
Department:  Services
Supervisor:  Director of Advocacy & Services 
Entry Rate of Pay: $20.00/hr
Plus Benefits

Primary Job Objectives:

Under the supervision of the Director of Advocacy & Services, the ILA II will carry out various duties at the assigned office with the primary goal of assisting persons with disabilities to live more independently.  Core services include independent living skills training, peer support, individual and systems advocacy, information and referral, personal assistant referral, transition services, and coordination of access to housing and transportation resources.

Duties and Responsibilities:

The duties of the ILA II include:

1. Serve as back-up Manager for Director of Advocacy and Services for the center, providing support for orientation, training and supervision of other staff and volunteers, assuring adherence to Independent Living philosophy.
2. Provide core services for consumers: conduct intake, assess needs, and develop Independent Living Plans with consumers who choose to have one.  Provide or coordinate access to services needed with appropriate support that enables the consumer to learn how to access services on their own, and follow up to ensure that needs are met to extent possible.
3. Engage in outreach to consumers, other service providers, and the community at large to promote PIRS services.
4. Be involved in at least one major area of systems advocacy such as benefits, health care, education, etc. and keep other staff apprised of key issues related to that area.
5. Maintain required records and submit in an accurate, legible, and timely manner.
6. Develop community relationships and provide appropriate information and referrals to resources for consumers.  
7. Provide self advocacy training to consumers as needed, and support their advocacy efforts to access needed resources. 
8. Provide basic information and assistance about benefits programs, such as IHSS, Social Security, SNAP, etc., or refer to appropriate outside resources.
9. Provide access to individual and group peer support.
10. In collaboration with Registry Coordinator at main office, assist with personal assistant recruitment and.provide guidance to consumers on how to hire, train, and supervise their in-home assistants.
11. Travel as assigned throughout PIRS service area, and occasionally to other areas in or out of state for training.
12. Carry out other duties, as assigned.

Required Qualifications: 

1. Bachelor degree preferred and at least one year of related field experience working with people with disabilities. Two years of relevant experience may be substituted for two years of college education with demonstrated competence to perform the duties of the position.  Example: AA Degree in related field and three years of relevant field experience.
2. Ability to communicate effectively in English both in writing and verbally.  Bilingual skills in Spanish desirable.
3. Excellent computer skills including word processing, data entry, use of internet and email.
4. Ability to communicate effectively with people having any type of disability.
5. Ability to write concisely and clearly in English.  Ability to read, analyze and interpret written matter appropriate for delivery of consumer services.
6. Understanding of and commitment to the Independent Living philosophy, including experience with both individual and systems change advocacy, and the values and mission of PIRS.
7. Ability to exercise sound judgment in providing consumer services and/or participating in community education, advocacy, and awareness projects.
8. Personal experience with disability preferred.  Hiring preference given to persons with disabilities (Title VIIc, Federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended).

Reasoning Ability:

The ILA II must have the abilities to define problems, present solutions, collect data and establish facts and priorities; use discretion and to maintain confidentiality; and work with minimum of supervision and maintain an atmosphere of teamwork.

Mental/Physical Demands:

The ILA II is regularly required to recall details, resolve problems, deal with interpersonal conflicts, and manage people, time and materials.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that should be met to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. These include general clerical duties, use of office machines, some travel within the catchment area, and occasionally outside that area, and the ability to work in an office setting with average conversational noise levels.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable a person with a disability to perform the essential functions of the position.

Stress Level: 

Average

Qualified Persons with Significant Disabilities are Encouraged to Apply per Federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, Title VIIC

To Apply:

Complete the PIRS Employee Application Form located here.