Education Support Specialist IEP Case Manager

Position Overview
The Education Support Specialist assists school-aged individuals and their families in navigating Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and Section 504 Plans to ensure access to appropriate educational services and supports. This position serves as a liaison between families, school districts, Regional Centers, and community partners, providing advocacy, resource navigation, and family education consistent with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and Title 17 service standards. The Education Support Specialist ensures that students receive a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE), while promoting culturally and linguistically responsive advocacy in line with U.N.I’s mission of equity, inclusion, and empowerment.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Family Support & Advocacy

• Assist families in understanding their child’s educational rights under IDEA and Section 504
• Support parents in preparing for and participating in IEP and 504 team meetings
• Review educational assessments, reports, and IEP documents to ensure compliance and accuracy
• Empower families to communicate effectively with school staff and advocate for necessary support
• Perform other duties as assigned

IEP / 504 Coordination

• Collaborate with school districts, Regional Center Service Coordinators, and related service providers
• Monitor implementation of IEP goals, accommodations, and transition services for Regional Center–eligible students
• Review IEPs and 504 Plans for completeness, measurable goals, and appropriate service alignment
• Assist families in filing mediation or due process requests when disputes arise (in coordination with Program Director and Regional Center)

Documentation & Case Management

• Maintain detailed case records, meeting notes, and communication logs in compliance with Title 17 and U.N.I documentation standards
• Prepare reports that summarize educational advocacy activities and their outcomes
• Maintain a caseload in accordance with agency policy, ensuring timely follow-up and accurate tracking of all cases

Training & Education

• Facilitate workshops for families on topics such as understanding IEPs, transition planning, and self-advocacy
• Support collaboration between schools and families to ensure culturally sensitive service delivery
• Participate in professional development on IDEA, Section 504, and best practices for special education advocacy

Collaboration & Community Engagement

• Attend multidisciplinary team meetings, community events, and collaborative planning sessions with Regional Centers and educational partners
• Develop resource lists and referral tools for families and educators to support their needs
• Represent U.N.I as an advocate for educational inclusion and equal access

______________________________________________________________________Qualifications
Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Psychology, Social Work, or related field (required).
• Master’s degree in Special Education, Counseling, or related field (preferred).
• Minimum 2 years of experience supporting students with disabilities in an educational, advocacy, or social service setting.
• Knowledge of IEP/504 processes, IDEA, Section 504, and FAPE (required).
• Experience working with Regional Center–eligible families (preferred).

Licenses & Certifications

• Valid California Driver’s License and reliable transportation (required)
• Current CPR/First Aid Certification (required; training provided)
• DOJ/FBI background clearance (required)

Skills & Competencies

• Excellent verbal and written communication, including report writing
• Strong understanding of special education law and procedural safeguards
• Compassionate and culturally responsive approach to family engagement
• Skilled in advocacy, problem-solving, and conflict resolution
• Organized, self-motivated, and able to manage multiple priorities

Working Conditions

• Field-based position requiring travel to school sites, family homes, and community locations
• Flexible schedule (primarily weekdays, with occasional evenings for meetings) Schedule(s)/Hours are subject to change based on client needs/availability.
• Mileage reimbursement and mobile technology provided.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $25.00 - $27.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Vision insurance

Education:

• Bachelor's (Required)

Experience:

• supporting students with disabilities: 1 year (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Required)

Shift availability:

• Day Shift (Required)

Work Location: In person