Day Habilitation Specialist

Charles River Center; Needham (MA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 58,000; Full time

Job summary

Charles River Center is seeking a Day Habilitation Specialist to implement therapeutic objectives and provide direct supervision and training to members in program and community settings. You will document progress, support self-care skills, and facilitate community activities aligned with individual goals.

The role requires delivering person-centered supports, ensuring safety, performing crisis interventions, and upholding agency policies with professionalism and integrity.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; related experience in Human Services may be considered.
• Ability to pass a Criminal History Background Check and regulatory screenings.
• Fluent in English with strong written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Implement members' therapeutic objectives per DHSP and document progress.
• Support development of self-care, communication, self-direction, and daily living skills.
• Assist with personal care tasks including wheelchair transfers, toileting, showering, and vehicle transfers.
• Facilitate community inclusion activities aligned with members’ goals.
• Apply Positive Behavioral Supports to promote skill development.
• Maintain safety, crisis intervention, and incident reporting.

Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Teamwork

Dependability

Communication

Planning

Initiative

Problem-Solving

Management

Driver's License

Background Check

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Position OverviewThe Day Habilitation Specialist is responsible for implementing therapeutic objectives as outlined in members' Day Habilitation Service Plans (DHSP). This role provides direct supervision, training, and support to members in both program and community settings. The Habilitation Specialist serves as a resource for members, families, and team members, ensuring a safe, engaging, and person-centered environment.Key ResponsibilitiesMember Support & Program ImplementationImplement members' therapeutic objectives based on their Day Habilitation Service Plan (DHSP) and ensure accurate data collection and documentation of progress.Support members in developing self-care, communication, self-direction, and daily living skills based on individual needs and learning styles.Assist in personal care tasks, including wheelchair transfers, toileting, showering, and vehicle transfers, while maintaining a dignified and supportive environment.Facilitate community inclusion activities aligned with members’ interests and therapeutic goals.Use Positive Behavioral Supports to encourage appropriate behaviors and promote skill development.Safety, Crisis Intervention & ComplianceEnsure adherence to Human Rights and Sexuality Policies, maintaining a safe, respectful, and supportive environment for all members.Act as a role model, demonstrating professionalism in dress, language, and behavior.Implement Health & Safety policies, including:Familiarity with evacuation routes and emergency protocols.Awareness of fire safety procedures and proper use of fire alarm pull stations.Ensuring clean and accessible aisles and exits.Supervising members during meals, breaks, and transportation to community sites.Performing light housekeeping and training members in maintaining a clean and organized environment.Using safe lifting and transferring techniques at all times.Participate in crisis intervention, including:Consistently implementing behavioral support plans.Responding effectively to crisis situations.Executing Behavior Management and Emergency Restraint interventions appropriately.Completing incident reports and related documentation in an accurate and timely manner.Professional Expectations & Team CollaborationFoster positive relationships with members, families, and staff to support a team-oriented approach.Maintain reliable and consistent attendance, arriving punctually and adhering to program schedules.Demonstrate effective communication in both individual and group settings.Adapt to changing priorities while managing multiple responsibilities efficiently.Uphold company policies and procedures, demonstrating professionalism and ethical conduct.Participate in meetings and required training sessions to maintain professional development.Required Skills & CompetenciesInterpersonal Skills: Establishes positive relationships with members, families, and colleagues.Teamwork & Cooperation: Works collaboratively with staff and management to achieve program goals.Dependability: Completes assigned responsibilities accurately and consistently.Communication: Demonstrates clear and effective verbal and written communication.Planning & Organization: Prioritizes tasks effectively and adapts to dynamic environments.Initiative & Problem-Solving: Proactively identifies and resolves challenges.Management & Leadership: Supports and enforces agency policies through professional conduct.High school diploma or equivalent (related experience in Human Services or Behavior Management may be considered in place of formal education).Valid Driver’s License.Successful completion of all state and agency-mandated training.Experience or working knowledge of Positive Behavioral Supports is preferred.Strong oral and written communication skills.Must pass a Criminal History Background Check (CORI) and screenings from DPPC, DDS, and other regulatory agencies.Ability to perform all essential job duties, with reasonable accommodations available for individuals with disabilities.Language SkillsFluent in English with the ability to read, interpret, and write reports related to safety rules, operational procedures, and program guidelines.Effective communication skills to interact with members, staff, families, and community partners.Ability to present information clearly in both individual and small group settings.Physical DemandsAbility to stand, walk, stoop, kneel, and crouch for extended periods.Frequent use of hands and arms for handling tools, assisting members, and performing essential tasks.Ability to lift and maneuver up to 100 pounds (with assistance when necessary).Ability to lift 30 pounds from floor to waist and 10-15 pounds overhead.Significant physical endurance required to sustain the job’s demands.Reasonable accommodations available for individuals with disabilities.Reasoning AbilityAbility to understand and follow detailed written or verbal instructions.Strong problem-solving skills to adapt to dynamic situations and ensure member well-being.