Designated Coordinator - Skills Development Specialist

Direct Care and Treatment (DCT) is unable to provide sponsorship for work visas. Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States at the start of employment.

About the role

The Designated Coordinator (DC) - Skills Development Specialist (SDS) functions as the Designated Coordinator per MN Statute 245D, under the guidance of the Designated Manager (DM). The DC is responsible for developing Individualized Plans for individuals with cognitive/intellectual diagnoses, brain injuries, mental health diagnoses, and other co-occurring issues, in conjunction with the interdisciplinary team. The role ensures Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) are trained to implement plans as written and is responsible for data collection and review of plans in accordance with review frequency as determined by the individual’s team and/or annually at a minimum.

The DC collaborates with individuals, family members, guardians, case managers, and community providers to ensure culturally sensitive and person-centered supports. The role utilizes motivational interviewing, positive behavioral supports, and informed trauma care to advocate for rights and needs, foster inclusivity, and empower individuals to maximize their potential and enhance quality of life.

Responsibilities

• Develop person-centered support plans using Positive Support principles and practices, including Person-Centered Thinking and Planning, Positive Behavior Support, and recovery-oriented mental health supports.
• Communicate effectively, orally and in writing, to promote a shared understanding of support goals and implementation methods among team members.
• Develop schedules of activities to ensure effective use of resources in implementing programs according to plans.
• Apply consistent principles in assessing individuals’ interfering behavior, skill development needs, and progress toward achieving individual goals.
• Work rotating or irregular hours as needed or directed.
• Provide direct care as needed.
• Transport and accompany individuals to medical appointments, community outings, recreational activities, and spiritual events.
• Stay informed on regulations and best practices to advocate for individuals' rights and needs.

Requirements

• Must meet the qualifications to be a Designated Coordinator per 245D Designated Coordinator Requirements.
• Valid Driver’s License.
• At least 18 years of age.
• Ability to develop person-centered support plans using Positive Support principles and practices.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to develop schedules and manage resources effectively.
• Knowledge of coaching principles to motivate and guide employees.
• Knowledge of support principles and techniques to plan, design, and implement individual program strategies.

Qualifications

Minimum qualifications include one of the following:

• 4 years of full-time work experience providing direct care services to persons with disabilities or persons 65 years and older; AND a minimum of 50 hours of education and training related to human services and disabilities.
• A diploma in a field related to human services from an accredited post-secondary institution and 3 years of full-time work experience providing direct care services to persons with disabilities or persons 65 years and older.
• An associate degree in a field related to human services and 2 years of full-time work experience providing direct care services to persons with disabilities or persons 65 years and older.
• A bachelor’s degree in a field related to human services and 1 year of full-time work experience providing direct care services to persons with disabilities or persons 65 years and older.

Human services-related degrees may include, but are not limited to:

• Family Social Sciences
• Health Care Management
• Special Education
• Public Health
• Recreational Therapy
• Social Work
• Alcohol and Drug Counseling
• Social Science
• Health Science
• Psychology

Preferred Qualifications

• Lead work experience in a direct care setting.
• Experience writing, modifying, or evaluating program plans.
• Experience with financial management of home or individual accounts.
• Experience working effectively with diverse backgrounds and cultures.

Pay

$24.40 - $35.30 / hourly; $50,947 - $73,706 / annually.

Schedule

• Full-time, unlimited position.
• Rotating shift with work hours varying depending on program needs (e.g., 7:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., 1:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.).
• Days of work: Monday - Friday.
• Travel required for transporting and accompanying individuals to appointments and activities.

Benefits

• Paid vacation and sick leave.
• 12 paid holidays each year.
• Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans.
• Fertility care, including IVF.
• Diabetes care.
• Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children.
• 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children.
• Pension plan that provides income upon retirement (after working at least three years).
• Employer-paid life insurance.
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance.
• Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care.
• Resources for physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being.
• Training, classes, and professional development opportunities.
• Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program eligibility (for qualifying positions).
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support, including mental health, relationship challenges, grief and loss, finances, and legal issues.
• Daily living/convenience services, such as chore services, home repair, trip planning, and child/elder care.

Benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota.