About Abilities First
For over 60 years, Abilities First, Inc. has been empowering individuals with developmental disabilities to live their most vibrant, independent lives. From early education to adulthood, our wide range of services—including preschool and school programs, day and residential habilitation, community connections, and employment services—are designed to uplift every individual’s unique strengths and dreams.
We believe in the power of people—of every background, identity, and ability—to create change and build a more inclusive world. Abilities First is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is welcoming and supportive of people of varying abilities, races, ethnicities, religions, socio-economic status, gender and gender identities. If you’re ready to turn your passion into purpose, we’d love to welcome you aboard.
Position Summary
Abilities First is seeking a full‑time Assistant Coordinator for Day Habilitation Program sites located in Poughkeepsie. The Assistant Coordinator will assist the Coordinator in daily coordination, oversight, implementation of direct care, documentation of each individual’s program plan, and daily operation of the program site. In the absence of the Program Coordinator, the Assistant Coordinator will be responsible for all concerns of the center.
Work Schedule
Monday – Friday, 7:45 am – 3:30 pm (36.25 hours per week).
Locations
Plaza, Freedom.
Pay
- Assistant Coordinator I: $19.31 – $21.84 per hour
- Assistant Coordinator II: $19.84 – $21.84 per hour
Position Standards
- Ensures the development and delivery of all services, supports, monthly notes, safeguards and activities identified by ISP/CFA and the Day Habilitation plan as assigned.
- Acts as a liaison with Abilities First Inc. providers, outside agencies, families, and the individual to present an overview of all services and progress related to the individual.
- Ensures the delivery of quality services.
- Demonstrates continuous regard for personal safety and safety of others.
- Provides leadership, guidance and training to staff members.
- Provides direction to staff in the absence of Coordinator.
- Performs personal care as required, including but not limited to assistance with toileting, transferring, changing needs, handwashing and oral care, and documents findings on appropriate forms (including skin integrity, bowel and repositioning charts).
- Ensures active engagement and appropriate communication with staff and individuals.
- Assumes responsibility for medication administration and appropriate documentation in an accurate and timely manner.
- Develops a trusting and friendly rapport with individuals served while maintaining professional boundaries.
- Fulfills mandated reporter role by reporting suspected abuse to administration immediately.
- Ensures that the center is kept safe, clean and decorated in an age‑appropriate and comfortable manner, and that it is kept in good repair inside and out.
- Demonstrates proficiency in all goals and skillsets outlined in the NYS DSP Core Competencies, on which performance will be evaluated.
- Responsible for providing transportation to individuals receiving services by driving agency vehicles with a capacity up to 14 passengers.
- Ensures all required trainings and certifications are current, and seeks further support and training where needed.
- Consistently exhibits the qualities of a committed and professional employee including respect toward others, striving for excellence, teamwork and unity.
- Supports agency vision and mission.
- Adheres to agency Code of Legal and Ethical Behavior, performing responsibilities according to ethical and legal standards with honesty, integrity, fairness, good faith and respect for others and the law.
- Follows all agency policy and procedures and demonstrates continuous regard for personal safety and the safety of others.
- Performs other appropriate job‑related activities as requested by your supervisor or as circumstances warrant.
Perks & Benefits
- Time to Recharge – Vacation, personal, sick, and holidays built around the school calendar.
- Health & Wellness – Medical, dental, and vision plans to keep you covered.
- Plan For The Future – 401(k) with employer match and employer‑paid life insurance.
- Level Up Your Skills – Tuition reimbursement and online training through the College of Direct Support, and opportunities to boost your earning potential.
- Get Paid When You Need It – On‑Demand Pay gives you access to earnings as early as the next day.
- Exclusive Extras – Employee discounts with Verizon, AT&T, Royal Carting, and more.
Requirements
- One‑year experience working with the developmentally disabled population and/or demonstrated supervisory experience.
- Associate’s Degree in human services or related field preferred.
- Basic computer skills required.
- Must have a current NYS driver’s license deemed “acceptable” by our insurance carrier.
- Current SCIP R certification, Medication Administration certification, CPR certification, and SFA certification, or the ability to achieve certification required.
Physical Demands
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, bend, squat, turn in the knees, pivot and grasp with both hands (for CPR/First Aid, behavior intervention techniques, and lifting and carrying).
- Lift individuals using appropriate techniques, including tools such as a Hoyer Lift.
- Assist individuals in ambulation by providing physical assistance, including use of a gait belt or other equipment.
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
- Ability to push, pull, and maneuver adults in wheelchairs.
- Possess verbal and written communication skills in English to ensure adequate regulatory documentation.
At Abilities First, we recognize that talent and potential come in many forms. If this position inspires you but your experience does not align with every preferred qualification, we still encourage you to apply. You may be the right candidate for this role—or another opportunity within our organization.
Equal Opportunity Employment
Abilities First is an equal‑opportunity employer and is welcoming and supportive of people of varying abilities, races, ethnicities, religions, socio-economic status, gender, and gender identities.