Service Coordinator - Self Determination Program

As a Service Coordinator at Kern Regional Center, your main responsibilities will include coordinating services for individuals with developmental disabilities, developing and implementing Individual Program Plans (IPP) and Person Center Plans (PCP), conducting periodic reviews of consumer progress, and advocating for consumers and their families. You'll also seek out community resources and facilitate referrals as needed.

To become a Service Coordinator in the Self Determination Program at Kern Regional Center, you should ideally hold a BA/BS degree in human services or a related field. Additionally, having at least two years of experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities is recommended. Bilingual abilities, especially in Spanish, are highly desirable.

Effective communication is crucial in the Service Coordinator role at Kern Regional Center, as you'll be interacting with consumers, families, and community partners regularly. Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential to convey information clearly, provide updates, and advocate effectively for consumer needs.

The salary range for a Service Coordinator at Kern Regional Center is competitive, ranging from $21.63 to $30.44 per hour. The starting salary is typically between $21.63 and $25.04 per hour, which reflects the impact and importance of this role in the community.

As a Service Coordinator at Kern Regional Center, you can look forward to generous health, dental, and vision plans for you and your dependents, a robust paid time off policy, tuition reimbursement, and additional benefits such as long-term disability plans and retirement options, supporting both your professional and personal wellbeing.

To prioritize tasks as a Service Coordinator, I focus on assessing the urgency and importance of each case, ensuring that consumers with pressing needs are prioritized. I also maintain organizational tools to keep track of deadlines and appointments, allowing me to respond efficiently while coordinating services.

Building rapport with consumers and their families requires active listening and empathy. I make it a point to engage in open conversations, respect their input, and assure them that their concerns are valued. Continuously checking in and being available fosters trust and collaboration in this role.

In my previous roles, I have developed and implemented Individual Program Plans (IPP) by collaborating closely with consumers, their families, and other service providers. I ensure that each IPP is personalized, reflecting the specific goals and needs of the consumer while regularly monitoring progress and making necessary adjustments.

Staying updated on regulations is vital in my role. I subscribe to industry newsletters, take part in training sessions, and participate in professional networks which provide information on changes in state and federal guidelines to ensure compliance and benefit the consumers effectively.

In a challenging case, I supported a consumer who faced multiple barriers in accessing services. I proactively collaborated with local agencies, sought out additional resources, and advocated vigorously for the consumer’s rights, ultimately creating a comprehensive support plan that met their unique needs.

Essential skills for a Service Coordinator include strong interpersonal and communication skills, organizational abilities, problem-solving mindset, and adaptability. Being detail-oriented and having a deep understanding of the services and resources available are also vital to succeed in supporting consumers effectively.

Handling conflicts or difficult conversations requires a calm demeanor and active listening. I approach such situations with empathy, seeking to understand perspectives, and aim for a constructive dialogue that fosters resolution and keeps the focus on the best outcomes for the consumer.

I have extensive experience connecting consumers with community resources. Throughout my career, I’ve built relationships with local organizations which allows me to facilitate referrals effectively and ensure consumers are aware of and can access the services available to them.

I aspire to work at Kern Regional Center because of its commitment to empowering individuals with developmental disabilities. The center’s emphasis on community and family involvement resonates with my values, and I am eager to contribute positively to the lives of consumers in this supportive environment.

Person-centered planning means prioritizing the individual’s voice and preferences in their support and service plans. It involves engaging consumers actively in their own planning process, ensuring that their goals and desires drive the decisions made, which is fundamental to promoting their independence and self-determination.