Community Supports Specialist

About the role

The Community Supports Specialist serves in a supporting role to Lakeland Care, Inc’s Interdisciplinary Team (IDT) staff and Provider Network, related to Employment, Day Habilitation, Supported Living, Assistive Technology, Community Connections, Self-Determination specialties, and others as assigned. This position supports and maintains a network of high-quality, culturally competent service providers to meet members’ needs, negotiates rates for service provider contracts, and monitors provider contract adherence. The role focuses on building positive working relationships with service providers, IDT staff, and collaborating with internal and external stakeholders to develop and maintain specialty support resources. Additionally, the specialist provides consultative subject matter expertise and supports pay-for-performance efforts outlined in the DHS contract.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate and implement initiatives using data for continuous improvement and increased use of Community Support Services.
• Support DHS pay-for-performance deliverables and assist with specialty Community Support department needs.
• Drive innovative strategies to enhance community supports utilization and achieve departmental goals to meet DHS contractual requirements.
• Provide subject matter expertise to IDT staff and LCI members, resolving complex problems by identifying barriers and implementing solutions.
• Manage challenging conversations to support LCI’s Community Supports Providers, ensuring a cost-effective, high-quality provider network.
• Collaborate with the Community Supports Team to plan, implement, and evaluate department objectives.
• Support the development and maintenance of standard operating procedures.
• Monitor data and reporting to measure departmental goals and contractual requirements related to pay-for-performance.
• Establish and maintain positive working relationships with service providers, IDT staff, and other stakeholders.
• Provide consultation, education, and process improvements to support care planning for LCI’s members.
• Liaise with external stakeholders such as provider agencies and community provider associations.
• Train and collaborate with other Community Supports Team members.
• Attend professional meetings, including workgroup sessions.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a human service field, business-related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience working with populations served in the Family Care program preferred.
• Strong mediation and negotiation skills; ability to handle challenging conversations.
• Knowledge of disabilities associated with LCI target groups preferred.
• Knowledge of network provider contracting in a managed care model is a plus.
• Familiarity with community resources and social service agencies.
• Ability to develop effective working relationships with providers, external stakeholders, and care management staff.
• Creative problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
• Excellent organization and interpersonal skills.
• Flexibility and cooperation in a dynamic environment.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Current driver’s license, acceptable driving record, and proof of adequate insurance.

Skills

• Accountability and self-driven initiative.
• Results-driven with a focus on achieving goals.
• Critical thinking and innovative strategy development.
• Commitment to excellence and high-quality support.
• Strong customer service focus and timely communication.
• Interpersonal awareness, respect for diversity, and emotional resilience.
• Relationship building with internal and external stakeholders.
• Organizational regard and collaboration with team members.

Schedule

Work hours are generally during normal business hours, Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM.

Working Conditions

Work is performed largely remotely with minimal chance for personal injury. The role involves responding to various operational, county, community, or customer situations and fulfilling multiple priorities within established deadlines. Effective written and verbal communication and positive working relationships are critical.