Deaf + Communication & Support Specialist

Job Posting:

Deaf+

Communication and Support Specialist Company:

Self Determined Futures (SDF) L.L.C.

Location:

Santa Barbara County /

Ventura County Area Position Type:

Full-time Compensation:

$72,000

• salaried position

About Us:

Self Determined Futures (SDF) L.L.C. empowers disadvantaged and marginalized populations by providing comprehensive services and support. Our mission is to enhance service access and ensure equitable resources such as education, healthcare, housing, employment, transportation, and legal assistance. We operate in eight regional areas of California, including Los Angeles and San Diego Counties. Through collaborative partnerships and innovative programs, we strive to break down systemic barriers, promote social justice, and foster self-sufficiency. We prioritize inclusivity, respect cultural diversity, and ensure that our services are culturally sensitive and responsive to the needs of the populations we serve. Our mission also involves advocating for policy changes and engaging in community outreach to raise awareness about the issues faced by disparity populations, ultimately aiming to create a more just and inclusive society.

Job Description:

The Deaf+ Communication & Access Specialist is responsible for advancing communication access, language equity, and culturally responsive services for individuals who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafBlind, and DeafDisabled (Deaf+). This role provides direct support, communication coaching, education, and training to individuals, families, and service providers to improve expressive and receptive communication and ensure meaningful participation in services. The Specialist works across multiple service areas and programs, supporting individuals in navigating services, increasing independence, and ensuring communication access in all aspects of care. This position plays a critical role in empowering individuals while strengthening staff and provider capacity to deliver linguistically accessible and culturally competent supports.

Key Responsibilities:

ASL Training & Communication Development Provide individualized and group-based American Sign Language (ASL) instruction to support functional communication Support the development of expressive and receptive language skills, promoting the use of formal ASL Coach family members, caregivers, and staff in ASL within natural environments to reinforce learning Utilize Alternative/Augmentative Communication (AAC), digital tools, and ASL resources to enhance communication Document progress and communication outcomes in alignment with agency and funding requirements Access, Equity & Participant Support Support individuals in understanding and navigating services, including person-centered planning and informed decision-making Advocate for communication access and culturally appropriate supports across service settings Promote independence, self-advocacy, and active participation in services and community life Assist with coordination of services and communication between individuals, families, and providers Family Education & Support Provide education to families on communication strategies and language development Support families in building confidence in communicating with their loved ones Provide guidance on accessing services, supports, and community resources Training & Community Engagement Facilitate trainings, workshops, and educational sessions for: Individuals Families Staff and service providers Provide cultural and linguistic competency training related to Deaf+ populations Participate in outreach events, community education, and resource fairs Build and maintain relationships with Regional Centers, community organizations, and stakeholders (when needed) Collaboration & Program Support Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to ensure communication access needs are met Provide recommendations to improve accessibility and service delivery across programs Support implementation of services across multiple program areas (e.g., family support, independent living, housing support, and community-based services) Maintain accurate documentation, reports, and service logs in compliance with funding and regulatory requirements

Qualifications:

American Sign Language Proficiency Interview (ASLPI) or Sign Language Proficiency Interview (SLPI) with a score of Superior or 4+. Ability to hold fully shared conversations with in-depth elaboration on both social and work topics, demonstrating excellent receptive comprehension skills. Demonstrated use of a very broad ASL vocabulary, near-native-like production, fluency, and prosody. Excellent use of ASL grammatical features, including classifiers, non-manual markers, and spatial referencing. Experience working with individuals who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, or DeafBlind in educational, training, or coaching settings preferred. Strong interpersonal, coaching, and communication skills to effectively mentor individuals, staff, and family members. Experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities is preferred. Reliable transportation and willingness to travel as needed. High school diploma or equivalent; additional training or certification in related fields is required.

Benefits:

• Holiday pay
• Mileage reimbursement
• Cell phone stipend reimbursement
• Health, dental, vision insurance benefits
• 401K Self Determined Futures (SDF) L.

L.C. is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Join us in making a difference in the lives of individuals impacted by inequality and contribute to building a more just and inclusive society.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$72,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance

Education:

Associate (Required)

Experience:

ASL interpretation : 5 years (Required)

Language:

ASL (Required)

License/Certification:

SLPI testing score of Superior? (Required) ASLPI Testing Score with a 4 of higher? (Required)

Work Location:

On the road