Self-Directed Assistant (SDA) – Home & Community-Based Services (HCBS) at SHORE COMMUNITY SERVICES INC – Skokie, Illinois

Organization: Shore Community Services, Inc.

Location: Skokie, IL

Position Type: Part-Time (Hourly)

Schedule: Monday–Friday, primarily business hours; occasional evenings/weekends

About the Role

Shore Community Services is seeking a detail-oriented and supportive Self-Directed Assistant (SDA) to assist individuals and families participating in Illinois Home-Based Support Services (HBSS). This role supports people who self-direct their services, helping them navigate program requirements, manage Personal Support Workers (PSWs), and maintain compliance with state and agency guidelines.

This position directly supports the Senior Manager of Home-Based and Community Supportive Services and plays a key role in day-to-day operations.

Key Responsibilities

Self-Direction Assistance (55A Support)

• Provide training and technical assistance to individuals and families self-directing services.

• Assist with recruiting, onboarding, scheduling, and managing Personal Support Workers (PSWs).

• Support families in understanding employer responsibilities and expectations.

• Promote independence and community participation.

ACES$ and Fiscal Coordination

• Assist families in navigating the ACES$ Fiscal/Employer Agent system.

• Support PSW hiring documentation and payroll processes.

• Monitor timesheet submission and resolve payroll issues.

• Communicate with ACES$ representatives as needed.

Budget Monitoring & Service Utilization

• Help monitor monthly HCBS budgets.

• Ensure hours and expenses align with approved service plans.

• Identify under- or over-utilization concerns and report them to the Senior Manager.

Documentation & Compliance

• Maintain accurate documentation for 55A billing.

• Support audit readiness and IDHS compliance.

• Maintain organized case records and complete required trainings (CPR/First Aid, QIDP, Safety Care).

Program Coordination & Communication

• Communicate regularly with individuals, families, PSWs, and the Senior Manager.

• Participate in ISP meetings and coordinate with ISC agencies.

• Escalate complex concerns appropriately.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in social work, Psychology, Sociology, Special Education, or related Human Services field.

• Must meet Illinois DHS requirements to serve as a Qualified Intellectual Disability Professional (QIDP).

Experience

• 1–3 years of experience working with individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities.

• Experience with Home-Based Services, self-directed models, or waiver-funded programs preferred.

Skills & Abilities

• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to analyze data and develop action plans.

• Proficiency with HSMS, EVV systems, and documentation tools.

• Knowledge of Medicaid, SSA, ACES$, SNAP, Medicare is a plus.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

• QIDP certification (or ability to obtain).

• Valid driver’s license and reliable, insured transportation.

• Ability to pass a background check and be listed on the Health Care Work Registry.

• CPR/First Aid certification (or ability to obtain).

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, bend, lift, travel locally, and maintain independent mobility.

How to Apply

• Interested candidates may submit inquiries through our website

We welcome all qualified applicants and look forward to hearing from you.