Who We Are

For over 60 years, Abilities First, Inc. has been empowering individuals with developmental disabilities to live their most vibrant, independent lives. From early education to adulthood, our wide range of services—including preschool and school programs, day programs and residential services , community connections, and employment services—are designed to uplift every individual’s unique strengths and dreams.

We believe in the power of people—of every background, identity, and ability—to create change and build a more inclusive world. Abilities First is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is welcoming and supportive of people of varying abilities, races, ethnicities, religions, socio-economic status, gender and gender identities. At Abilities First, you’ll join a mission-driven team that values collaboration, celebrates individuality, and is dedicated to meaningful work. If you're ready to turn your passion into purpose, we’d love to welcome you aboard.

 Who We Need  

Abilities first is seeking a Residential Coach III /LPN. The Residential Coach III (DSP) -LPN provides direct support services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities residing in an OPWDD-certified residential setting. This position will be responsible for the provision of individual services as identified in the Individual Service Plan and by the treatment team for individuals who need specific assistance and support. He/she will be responsible for maintaining current medical services and following up on the medical needs of the individuals within the program as directed to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the individuals. The position will be responsible for the supervision of the daily activities/responsibilities of the residents. The Residential Coach III helps the resident achieve valued outcomes and promotes individualization (self-determination & choice), independence (self-reliance to the extent possible), integration (involvement with relatives and friends and belonging to a neighborhood community) and productivity (accomplishments that contribute to the person’s own life and the lives of those around them) including nursing services (LPN license required).

Full-Time Non-Exempt 

Standard Schedule Sunday-Thursday 3pm-11pm, 40 hours per week

Pay Range: $28.90-$30.90

  Responsibilities:  

• Establishes a working relationship with all residents and supports their participation in daily activities as needed.
• Ensures the safety and well-being of the residents.
• Provides training and assistance to the residents in developing basic skills in appropriate social behaviors and communication, safety, housekeeping, personal care, health care, medication administration, money management, using public transportation, menu & meal preparation, grocery purchasing, and planning recreational activities and community inclusion.
• Assists the residents in achieving progress toward their individualized-based outcomes.
• Is an active participant in the service planning process.
• Documents attendance, daily community habilitation notes in THERAP and T-log entries.
• Monitors and assists with individual and household needs, i.e. maintenance, menu & meal preparation, grocery & household purchasing, cleanliness & chores, resident’s personal needs, emergency & safety procedures, etc.
• Successfully completes all required training programs.
• Administer medications and treatments in accordance with physician orders, OPWDD regulations, and agency policies.
• Report on health observations and changes in medical status to Residential RN.
• Accurately document medications, treatments, and health-related observations.
• Communicate with physicians, pharmacies, nurses, and other healthcare providers as needed
• Have a knowledge of Plans of Nursing Services (PONS) and other medical protocols in accordance with individuals’ needs.
• Provide health education and training to DSP staff as directed by Primary Registered Nurse.
• Assist with medical appointments and follow-up care as required.
• Ensure compliance with infection control standards and universal precautions.
• Maintain required nursing documentation and logs.
• Completion of health tracking and ensure accurate and timely documentation.
• Support individuals in accordance with their Staff Action Plan (SAP), Behavior Support Plans, and person-centered goals.
• Ensures all required trainings and certifications required are current, and seeks further support and training where needed.
• Adhere to agency Standards of Conduct, which require all employees, consultants, board members, volunteers and affiliates to perform their responsibilities according to ethical and legal standards with honesty, integrity, fairness, good faith and respect for others and the law.
• Follows all agency policy and procedures and demonstrates continuous regard to personal safety and the safety of others.
• Performs other appropriate job-related activities as requested by your supervisor or as circumstances warrant.
• Will incorporate core concepts of person-centered excellence by respecting people’s concerns and responding accordingly and will use “teachable moments” to assist people in understanding and exercising their rights.

Perks & Benefits:

• Time to Recharge - Vacation, personal, sick, and holiday time OR
• Time to Recharge – Personal and sick time with additional paid time off in accordance with school calendar
• Health & Wellness – Medical, dental, and vision plans to keep you covered, and free Employee Assistance Program available 24/7
• Plan for The Future – Retirement savings plan options, employer-paid life insurance, and access to Free Will
• Level Up Your Skills– Tuition reimbursement and career development training opportunities
• Get Paid When You Need It – On Demand Pay gives you access to earnings as early as the next day
• Make a Difference and Be Recognized! – We celebrate our team through staff appreciation events, employee awards, team celebrations, and ongoing recognition of exceptional performance and service.
• And More!

*Eligibility requirements may apply

1. Current New York State Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license required, in good standing.
2. Minimum one year experience working with developmentally disabled individuals required; experience in a residential program preferred.
3. Knowledge of OPWDD regulations and documentation standards preferred.
4. Must have a current NYS driver’s license, free of moving violations (Amendable to Class E), deemed acceptable by our insurance carrier.

Physical demands:

Described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential responsibilities and functions of the job and are not meant to be all inclusive. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential responsibilities and functions of the job. Unless reasonable accommodations can be made, in order to perform the essential functions of this job, an individual shall be required to:

1. Have the ability to lift up to 50 lbs., bend, squat, turn in the knees, pivot and grasp with both hands (in order to properly and safely perform the techniques taught in CPR/First Aid, behavior intervention techniques, and lifting and carrying techniques).
2. Lift individuals by using appropriate techniques, including but not limited to usage of tools to assist, such as the Hoyer Lift.
3. Assist individuals in ambulation by providing physical assistance, including use of a gait belt or other equipment where necessary.
4. Have the ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time.
5. Have the ability to push, pull, and maneuver adults in wheelchairs.
6. Possess verbal and written communication skills, in English, to ensure adequate regulatory documentation.

 NOTE: The salary range represents the expected range of compensation for this position exclusive of fringe benefits or other job specific stipends where applicable. The actual starting salary for the successful candidate will be based on qualifications, experience, skills, education, internal equity, and other job-related factors. Not all candidates will qualify for the maximum range.