Disabilities Advocate

Pay Rate: $20.50/ hour
Work Schedule: Part-Time (20 hours/week)
Location: Greensburg PA (Hybrid: With some remote flexibility)

Sign on Bonus: Up to $1000

Make a Meaningful Impact

Join The Arc of Greater Pittsburgh at Achieva and help make a difference in the lives of people with disabilities and their families. At Achieva we foster a welcoming environment where everyone is respected empowered and included. If you are a compassionate advocate looking to support others in achieving a life of personal significance we encourage you to apply.

About Achieva

For over 70 years Achieva has supported the inclusion of people with disabilities in every aspect of community life. Our mission is to advocate with empower and support people with disabilities and their families throughout their lives. We envision a world where all individuals live lives of personal significance.

Position Summary

The Disabilities Advocate provides essential advocacy and family support for individuals with intellectual disabilities or autism as well as their families. This role assists individuals in navigating special education transition services home and community-based services and other relevant systems. This position reports directly to the President of The Arc of Greater Pittsburgh.

Responsibilities

• Support individuals with disabilities in achieving their desired personal outcomes.
• Provide information resources technical assistance and advocacy for families and students (birthage 21) regarding education and transition services.
• Assist adults with disabilities based on identified needs and availability.
• Collaborate with families to gather facts and resolve Individualized Education Plan (IEP) related issues.
• Maintain current knowledge of relevant local state and federal laws and policies (e.g. IDEA Rehabilitation Act).
• Maintain accurate records and prepare all required reports in a timely manner.
• Participate in required professional training and development.
• Promote a safe respectful and inclusive environment for all families served.
• Perform additional duties as assigned in alignment with Achievas mission. Job duties may change at any time with or without notice.
  

• Bachelors degree in social sciences or education required; 12 years of relevant advocacy experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
• Strong negotiation problem-solving and communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Highly organized with strong time-management and prioritization abilities.
• Basic computer proficiency (Microsoft Office and Google Workspace).
• Valid drivers license and reliable transportation for local travel.
• Must be able to pass required background checks including Act 33 Act 34 and FBI clearances.
• Self-advocates and family members of individuals with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
• Bilingual (Spanish/English) skills are a plus.

Why Join Achieva

• Meaningful Work: Directly influence the quality of education and support for families in your community.
• Inclusive Culture: Be part of a values-driven supportive organization that champions diversity.

Our Commitment to Inclusion

Achieva is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) and is committed to creating a workplace and community where all individuals feel respected included and valued. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race color religion sex age disability sexual orientation gender identity or expression national origin veteran status or genetic information. We are dedicated to providing access equal opportunity and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities in employment programs and activities.
To request an accommodation contact Human Resources at ext. 650 or