Full-time, non-exempt position
Disability Rights Florida is seeking an Advocate Investigator to join the Systems Reform Team.
Bilingual/Multilingual candidates preferred (e.g. American Sign Language, Spanish, Haitian Creole, etc…)
Disability Rights Florida has an opening for an Advocate Investigator on the Systems Reform Team. The Advocate Investigator responds to requests for services from individuals with disabilities who contact the organization with specific complaints or concerns. The Advocate Investigator is expected to work under attorney supervision to investigate the issue and resolve the matter using authorized strategies to include negotiation, outreach, education, training, information and referral, or other approved strategy on behalf of the person with disabilities. The ideal candidate would have several years of professional experience advocating on behalf of individuals with disabilities. This will be a full-time position located in or near one of our office locations in Tallahassee, Gainesville, Fort Lauderdale, or Tampa.
The ability to communicate effectively with a variety of individuals from diverse communities and backgrounds, verbally and in writing, as well as a demonstrated interest in disability rights and a commitment to social justice advocacy are required. This position will provide direct services to clients and requires excellent customer service skills, research and writing skills, along with the ability to manage and prioritize multiple tasks. The position requires that the Advocate Investigator maintain and complete electronic case records and time records for all DRF clients in accordance with best practices and ethical standards. This position also requires document collection, collaboration with other advocates, attorneys, the legal coordinator/senior paralegal and legal paraprofessionals in further of the advocacy of DRF’s clients. The Advocate Investigator is responsible for conducting investigations and on-site reviews of facilities including group homes.
Essential Functions
Responds to requests for information from clients or representatives and provides information, referral and technical assistance as provided by federal funders.
Represents the client’s interests in meetings, negotiations, mediations and administrative proceedings as authorized and under attorney supervision.
Develops case strategies based on client information, on-site investigations and thorough research.
Develops and conducts outreach, education and training for clients and their families, community groups, public policy makers, state agency staff and other stakeholders, as assigned.
Advocates for the enforcement of the civil rights of people with disabilities as provided by law and regulation.
Performs thorough and accurate research, analysis, documentation and case preparation
Participates in team meetings and in organizational events, collaborates on cross-team projects and works to enhance the visibility of the organization and further the rights of individuals with disabilities.
Education or experience equivalent to a four-year undergraduate degree required.
Training, education, and/or experience working with individuals with mental illness and/or intellectual/developmental disabilities is required
Advocacy experience in either social or human service, government, public interest, legal, or health care environments required.
Must possess strong computer skills; prior experience with documenting and maintaining information in electronic case files preferred.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and to deal effectively with and negotiate through confrontational situations and possible stressful interactions.
Ability to manage individual workloads so that services are delivered timely and appropriately.
In an office-like environment, incumbent works at a seated station for several hours each day to access the use of computers, phones and related information technology.
Must be able to transport oneself to work-related meetings, centers and offices. Some lifting and carrying of files up to 10 pounds required.
Ability to travel up to 20% of the time for case work, out-of-town meetings, trainings or outreach activities required.
Must maintain valid state-issued photo identification for access to institutions and facilities.
Dedication to and experience with working with individuals with disabilities is required.
Please submit a Disability Rights Florida application, current resume, and a writing sample
by email: [email protected]
by mail: Renee Jackson, Disability Rights Florida, 2473 Care Dr. Suite 200, Tallahassee, FL 32308
or by fax: 850-617-6691
Application deadline is December 8, 2021.
NLADA Mutual Insurance Co., RRG
