Job Description
The Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is dedicated to creating, in partnership with others, innovative and genuine opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities to participate fully and meaningfully in, and contribute to, their communities as valued members.
The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is actively searching for a dynamic ABI-MFP Occupational Therapist to take on a pivotal part-time role (24 hours weekly) overseeing various key responsibilities. Reporting directly to the ABI-MFP Waiver Director while receiving guidance from the DDS Assistive Technology Center (ATC) Director related to assistance technology.
The ABI-MFP Occupational Therapist serves a vital role by providing a resource and professional support to the Regional Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) and Moving Forward Plan (MFP), "ABI-MFP" waiver participants, staff, and provider agencies for transition planning, equipment recommendations, and overall management of equipment within the region. Also completes screenings of the need for adaptive equipment, ADLs, assistive technology, and additional therapy services. The ideal candidate will bring the knowledge and abilities required to ensure critical services are provided.
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Duties and Responsibilities (these duties are a general summary and not all inclusive):
- Provides evaluations and consultation related to the discharge planning for ABI & MFP waiver participants transitioning from skilled nursing facilities to community settings.
- Works collaboratively with nursing facilities, durable/special medical equipment vendors & residential providers on equipment needs and planning.
- Participates in discussions on new program development and provides consultation in the areas of accessibility and assistive technology.
- Reviews client's level of function and goals during client evaluations to ensure effective service planning.
- Recommends, modifies, and monitors adaptive equipment, software, ergonomic systems, and environmental adaptations, in consultation with other professionals such as, AT Consultants, Rehabilitation Engineers, Physical Therapists, Speech Therapists, Orthopedists, Equipment Designers and program staff as appropriate.
- Works with the ABI-MFP Team in making recommendations as needs change and/or for safety evaluation in the home.
- Fabricates simple accessories using hand tools, upholstery materials and splinting materials to expedite service delivery.
- Attends professional meetings, seminars, conferences, and workshops to promote professional growth and expertise.
- Provides a regional tracking system for management and inventory of equipment within the Region.
- Facilitates new vendor contacts and serves as liaison with DME/SME vendors to expand knowledge and expertise in new technology.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Knowledge of DDS- ABI/MFP waiver program policies & procedures, philosophy, and mission.
- Working knowledge of the transition planning and ISP process for the ABI & MFP waiver.
- Knowledge of and ability to access relevant community -based services/programs.
- Third party funding procedures
- Technical aspects of mechanically translating clinical data
- Creation of database for tracking of equipment.
Qualifications Require at Hire:
- Background and understanding of OT principles and theories, and how various treatment approaches can be used with individuals with disabilities.
- Demonstrated ability to work with individuals with disabilities.
- Demonstrates effective problem solving and clinical reasoning skills.
- Ability to conceptualize mechanical solutions to clinical problems.
- Ability to communicate effectively both orally and graphically.
- Knowledge of neuromuscular development
- Ability to work effectively as a member of a team.
- Ability to work with a minimum of supervision.
- Ability to effectively manage time.
- Ability to travel to various work locations as required.
License Requirements:
- Must be eligible for Massachusetts licensure as an Occupational Therapist.
- Possess a valid Driver's license.
Please Note:
This position is located in the Hogan Regional Center in Danvers, MA
About the Department of Developmental Services:
The mission of the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is to create innovative and genuine opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities including Autism Spectrum Disorder to participate fully and contribute meaningfully to their communities as valued members. DDS serves over 43,000 vulnerable individuals throughout their lifetimes, providing a spectrum of day, employment, and residential supports. The agency directly oversees and manages $3 billion in public funds ($2.7B+ operating budget) and approximately 5,500 staff, the largest state employee workforce of any agency in the Massachusetts executive branch of government.
For more information about our agency and programs visit: www.mass.gov/dds
Pre-Hire Process:
Education and license/certification information provided by the selected candidate(s) is subject to the Massachusetts Public Record Law and may be published on the Commonwealth's website. Education, licensure, and certifications will be verified in accordance with the Human Resources Division's Hiring Guidelines.
Recommended candidates must successfully complete pre-employment screening which includes:
- Disabled Persons Protection Commission (DPPC) Abuse Registry Search: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/dppc-abuser-registry
- Criminal background check (CORI) by regulations set forth by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services. http://www.mass.gov/hhs/cori
- National Background Checks, Chapter 234 of the Acts of 2014, conduct fingerprint-based check. https://www.mass.gov/lists/dds-fingerprint-background-checks
If you require assistance with the application/interview process and would like to request an ADA accommodation, please click on the link and complete the ADA Reasonable Accommodation Request Form
For technical help with MassCareers, including logging into your profile and/or resetting your password, please call the Employee Service Center at 617-979-8500 for assistance.
For questions regarding this requisition, please contact the Executive Office of Health and Human Services Human Resources at 1-800-510-4122 Ext. #4.
ALL EMPLOYEES ARE PAID ON A BI-WEEKLY BASIS AND MUST HAVE DIRECT DEPOSIT. Listed salary ranges are for one full year at current rates.
Qualifications
First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.
Minimum Entrance Requirements: Applicants must have at least one year of full-time, or equivalent part-time, professional experience as an occupational therapist.
Special Requirements:
Possession of a current and valid Occupational Therapist license issued by the Board of Allied Health Professions in accordance with Chapter 667 of the Acts of 1982.
Comprehensive Benefits
When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.
Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!
Title 101 CMR 23.00 ("Regulation") requires certain agency staff to have received the COVID-19 vaccination and Influenza vaccination, or have taken required mitigation measures, to prevent viral infection and transmission in State Hospitals and State Congregate Care Facilities. The Regulation applies to this position. Successful candidates will be required to acknowledge and attest to your vaccination status for both COVID-19 and Influenza.
An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.