Open Doors Transition Specialist

Location: Niagara Falls, NY. Organization: WNY Independent Living. Position: Open Doors Transition Specialist. Closing Date: September 25, 2026.

About the role

Assists individuals in re-entry from institutional settings to the community. Facilitate and coordinate, for individuals residing in institutions, a comprehensive plan to re-enter the community.

Responsibilities

• Receive referrals from the Transition Services Coordinator and ensure the community re-entry process is followed through for each consumer.
• Provide counseling and information for individuals and families who are considering, or are in the process of, re-entry into the community.
• Coordinate visits to institutions, provide potential participants with unbiased information regarding available home and community-based services, participate in discharge planning, and coordinate with other relevant social services agencies involved in the discharge and transition-care of the consumer.
• Develop and facilitate person-centered plans effective for the 90-day transition period, secure qualified housing, coordinate home and community-based services during the transition period, and ensure continuation of services after the 90-day transition period is completed.
• Collaborate with the consumer, social worker, and other supports to determine barriers to community re-entry.
• Work as a collaborative member of the entire Transition Services Department and provide support to team members as appropriate and assigned by the Transition Services Coordinator.

Qualifications

Education & Training: Associate Degree in related human services field OR Bachelors Degree in related human services field. Professional and life-experience may be considered in lieu of, in full or part of academic credentials.

Knowledge & Experience: Working knowledge of issues faced by persons of all ages who are in need of long-term services, particularly with those related to nursing home transition. Professional and life experience may be considered in lieu of, in full or part of academic credentials. Associate degree requires three (3) years of work experience working with community-based, long-term care projects or comparable work experience in a private setting.

Skills

• Possess a deep commitment to person-centered planning and consumer choice.
• Firm understanding of Medicaid eligibility and coverage, as well as 1915c Medicaid waivers.
• Experience working with individuals with disabilities is preferred.
• Must have reliable transportation and be willing to travel throughout Erie, Niagara, Genesee, Orleans and Wyoming Counties.

Pay

$41,000–$43,000 annually.

Schedule

Full-time.