Family Support Specialist

Description

Since 1960, Benchmark has been connecting people and potential.  We are committed to empowering those we serve to live as independently as possible, be included in their communities, and reach their full potential. This mission extends to our employees, who bring our mission to life each day.  We actively strive to be a workplace that honors the unique experiences, perspectives, and strengths of our employees. We believe we are stronger, better, and more effective in our pursuits when we create space for everyone to be their authentic selves.  

Benchmark Human Services has grown to become one of the most respected leaders in the country in the areas of intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and behavioral health. We work with people of all ages at home, at work, and in the community through residential programs, employment services, crisis response, early intervention, and more. View our 65 Years of Stories campaign to learn more about the impact Benchmark employees have made across the country.  

The Family Support Specialist will assist and enable infants, toddlers and their families to have access to services provided under Montana’s early intervention program, Montana Milestones, and Family Education Services (FES). This person will also fulfill the role of FSS for the purpose of Part C and FES definitions.  

Qualified candidates must reside in or near Kalispell, MT. 

Learn more about Benchmark Montana Milestones by visiting: Benchmark MT Milestones 

Benefits:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Life insurance.
• Mileage reimbursement.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Paid Time Off and Sick Time Pay.
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA).
• Advancement opportunities.
• 401k with company match.
• Employee discounts with various vendors.

Responsibilities:

• Function in intake and/or ongoing coordinator role.
• Assist the with eligibility determination, including referral, intake and eligibility determination activities.
• Conduct the family assessment, including interviewing the family.
• Collect information on the child’s development, including observations of the child.
• Coordinate evaluations and assessments.
• Inform parents of their parental rights.
• Assist parents of eligible children in planning, meeting, developing, implementing and reviewing an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP).
• Collect the family’s insurance or Medicaid information to facilitate coordination of benefits and services.
• Maintain accurate, complete and timely electronic and paper file records.
• Conduct referrals and other activities to assist families in identifying available services and providers.
• Monitor the delivery of services to ensure the services are provided timely and in accordance with the IFSP.
• Facilitate a transition plan for children exiting Part C.
• Perform child find and provider recruitment activities.
• Coordinate and monitor the delivery of available services.
• Inform families of available advocacy services.
• Communicate and coordinate services with medical and health providers.
• Facilitate the development of a transition plan into, within and from the EI system, including transition to Part B special education, preschool, or other community services as appropriate.
• Assure families are informed of rights, options, and role in the EI process.
• Comply with all standards to assure the health and safety of all staff and clients we serve.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of Bachelor’s degree in one of the following: Early Childhood Special Education, Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, Child/Human Development, Social Work, Public Health, Sociology, Nursing, Psychology or other State approved degree.
• Past work experience relevant to working with families and/or children.
• Experience related to working with children with disabilities would be preferred
• Meet provider enrollment qualifications for a Family Support Specialist (assistance provided).
• Demonstrate leadership qualities, ability to work as part of a team, and effective communication skills.

Ready to Join Us? If you’re ready to embark on a rewarding career where every day brings new opportunities to make a difference, apply online at Benchmarkhs.com/Careers and select Montana. 

Benchmark Human Services is an EOE/AAP Employer. Veterans, women, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Candidates selected for hire will be required to complete a background check in accordance with company policy and applicable laws.  

 INDOTH