The Family Support Specialist is a current or former parent or primary caregiver of a child with an intellectual or developmental disability who provides support to parents with their own child(ren) with disabilities. This position ensures that families understand and receive support in accessing appropriate services for their child. This position provides parent-to-parent support and resources for families of children with special needs in Contra Costa County. This position acts as a support to parents, through their lived experience, they learn to advocate on behalf of their child, and provide support and resources to better meet the unique challenges of parenting a child with special needs. Responsibilities: Provide individualized, intensive, one-to-one emotional support in a confidential, non-judgmental manner. Assist families to identify strengths, needs, and priorities. Assist with preparation and distribution of written resource materials Maintain a mailing list and database Help parents organize the child’s records in a Care Notebook. Participate in community outreach and training activities Performs light local travel when necessary Perform intake procedures and adhering to confidentiality policies. Demonstrates respect for cultural and individual differences in interacting with families, outside personnel and other professionals. Requirements: Education: High school diploma or GED Experience: Must be a parent or primary caregiver of a child who has an intellectual or developmental disability. Valid CA Driver’s license, a good driving record Must have own car to use for work purposes (mileage reimbursement provided) Familiarity using computer systems and software such as Word, Excel, Gmail and more. Bilingual in English and Spanish Preferred Qualifications: Strong preference for candidates who are bilingual (i.e. Spanish, Farsi, Mandarin, Cantonese, Tagalog, Vietnamese, Hindi, Russian etc...) Demonstrated sensitivity to diversity issues involved in working in multicultural and/or underserved communities. A demonstrated commitment to the family empowerment model. Knowledge of Early Start, Regional Center, IEPs, IDEA, Lanterman Act, health care system and related laws and regulations Position Title: Family Support Specialist Location: Concord, CA Pay: $26.25 per hour Hours: Approximately 30 hours a week (Some evenings and weekends) Benefits with Employer Contribution: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life insurance, and LTD insurance valued at approximately $424.84 per pay period (about $5.23 per hour) Paid time off: 11 paid holidays + 1 birthday holiday 12 sick days per year 10–25 vacation days per year (based on tenure) 30 hours of bereavement leave Up to 2 weeks of paid jury duty Retirement: 2% employer 403(b) match after one year of service Employer pays 100% of retiree dental and Medicare supplement premiums for eligible employees Employees may be eligible for discretionary bonuses. Mileage is reimbursed at the IRS rate for approved business travel. Required business use of a personal cell phone is reimbursed through a semi monthly stipend. To apply to this position, please fill out the information below.