WHO WE ARE

Disability Rights California (DRC) defends, advances, and strengthens the rights and opportunities of people with disabilities.
DRC works for a world where all disabled people have power and are treated with dignity and respect. In this world, people with disabilities are supported, valued, included in their communities, afforded the same opportunities as people without disabilities, and make their own decisions.
DRC values all forms of human diversity. We are committed to a culture of belonging where all people are welcome. In order to be effective advocates for all people with disabilities, we must address discrimination in all its forms, including the unique challenges faced by people who experience the intersection of multiple systems of discrimination.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

(Applicants MUST meet EACH of the minimum qualifications to be considered for an interview.)

• Juris Doctor degree.
• Two or more years of experience:

o Advocating for the rights of people with developmental disabilities; or
o In a paid or volunteer position relating to regional center services, special education, or Social Security; or

o Working with vulnerable people or communities.

• Ability to conduct research and analysis of pertinent legal authority.
• Written and verbal communication skills sufficient to communicate complex legal questions and issues to the general public.
• Experience working with or sensitivity to people with disabilities.
• Experience working with or sensitivity to people from ethnic or language distinct communities.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

(Applicants DO NOT have to meet any of the Desirable Qualifications to be considered for an interview.)

• Three or more years advocating for the rights of people with developmental disabilities.
• Able to communicate fluently and write effectively in Spanish or an Asian language, including the ability to interpret and translate.
• Knowledge of statewide resources available to people with developmental disabilities.
• Experience reviewing medical or educational records.
• Alternate dispute resolution training and practice.
• One or more years supervising colleagues in a work or volunteer setting.
• Contacts with disability organizations and/or within disability communities.
• Experience with or extensive contacts in ethnic or language distinct communities.
• Experience providing training to a diverse range of people.
• Life experience as a person with a disability or direct experience as a caregiver of a person with a disability.
• Proficiency with Windows-based computer applications including Microsoft Office and case management software.
• Demonstrated experience and ability to work effectively with a variety of organizations and individuals with diverse perspectives, including people with disabilities, administrators, advocacy groups, and the public, and to maintain confidentiality in all matters.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

Occasional travel required. Ability to travel occasionally for activities such as out-of-town meetings, team meetings, training, or outreach activities up to 10% of the time. More travel may be required to meet program or contract requirements.

PURPOSE OF THE JOB

The CRA advocates for people with developmental disabilities who are regional center clients, including people who reside in state developmental centers and community facilities. The CRA is a generalist who provides information, advice, and representation on a wide range of legal topics impacting people who receive regional center services. Examples are special education, Social Security, IHSS, healthcare and insurance, and living in the community.
The CRA works under the direct supervision of a supervising attorney and in collaboration with other OCRA advocates and attorneys in their advocacy and outreach efforts.
This position is in a location convenient to the regional center and is eligible for a hybrid schedule working both remotely and in-office. Currently the office is located at 3602 Inland Empire Blvd in Ontario. The CRA may work remotely up to three days per week.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Essential functions are the job responsibilities an employee must be able to perform, with or without reasonable accommodation. CRA essential functions include:

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

Directly supervises one (1) advocate and carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the agency’s policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interview, hire, and train employees; plan, assign, and direct work; appraise performance; reward and discipline employees; address complaints and resolve problems.
Requirements: