Community Integration Specialist - Art Studio

Job Title: Community Integration Specialist I – DOT Driver

Department:                Day Services
Reports To:                    Manager, Community Integration
Employment Type:   Hourly, Professional

Pay Grade:                     G-4
Driver Status:              Authorized – DOT Physical Certification Required

About the Role

As a Community Integration Specialist, you'll work directly with individuals who have developmental disabilities to help them become more independent, more connected within their community, and learn to advocate and make choices. You’ll support them as they explore interests, learn new skills, build relationships, and gain meaningful experiences through volunteering and community activities.

What You’ll Do

• Support individuals in exploring hobbies, work interests, and personal goals.
• Teach real-life skills like communication, social skills, work skills, conflict resolution, independence, self-advocacy, self-determination, and safety.
• Help build social connections and encourage independence through community and/or social activities.
• Create and maintain strong partnerships with local organizations for volunteer and skill-building opportunities.
• Track progress, complete documentation, and share updates with the care team.
• Offer hands-on coaching and support in real-world settings.
• Ensure everyone’s health and safety while out in the community, including using approved, taught behavioral interventions as needed.
• Drive individuals safely to and from programs and activities.
• Support Individuals with disabilities in the art studio and in the community to discover interests, activities, dislikes and outcomes ( Discovery)
• Serve as artistic advocate for artists with disabilities.  Support artists with their daily needs, implement outcomes and ensure each artist makes progress in their artistic career/creative process. 
• Increase social networks of artists with developmental disabilities through the facilitation of relationships. 

Additional Responsibilities

• Assist with personal care and medication if needed.
• Join team meetings to discuss individuals progress and goals.
• Help manage participant petty cash when assigned.
• Advocate for individuals’ independence and inclusion.
• Handle other tasks as assigned.

What You Need

• At least 1 year of experience working with people with developmental disabilities (IDD/DD) or in a similar field.
• Experience with personal care or teaching is a plus.
• College coursework related to IDD/DD preferred.
• Valid Ohio driver’s license and car insurance.
• Ability to pass a DOT physical or obtain a doctor’s clearance to provide Non-Medical Transportation (NMT) in vehicles equipped to accommodate necessary devices.
• Certifications required for this position must be kept up to date.

Work Conditions

• You'll work in various community settings, including animal shelters, pantries, and more.
• Be prepared for driving in traffic or bad weather.
• Must be comfortable assisting individuals with mobility and behavior needs.
• Noise levels are moderate, and you’ll spend time both inside and outside.

Skills That Make You Great for This Role

• Strong multitasking and time management abilities.
• Creativity and initiative in planning fun and meaningful activities.
• Ability to work independently and make quick, responsible decisions.
• Great communication and relationship-building skills, along with patience and empathy.
• Flexibility working with different individuals and with varying situations.
• Ability to collaborate with a wide range of organizations and people.
• Good problem solving skills
• Familiarity with the local area and comfort using technology on the go.
• A helpful, customer-service mindset when working with the public.

Physical Requirements

• Walk, stand, bend, and move throughout the day.
• Help with mobility and lift (up to 100 lbs. with assistance).
• Use lifts or mechanical equipment as needed.
• Frequently use computer and document work.