Job Description

Eligibility Coordinator/Travel Trainer

Department: Care-A-Van
Reports To: Director of Paratransit Services
Rate of Pay: $45,000 – $55,000

SUMMARY

The Eligibility Coordinator/ADA Travel Trainer determines eligibility for paratransit services under ADA guidelines and provides travel training to individuals with disabilities and seniors. This role involves assessing applicants through interviews and assessments, as well as offering personalized training to help them use public transportation. The coordinator also collaborates with stakeholders to ensure accessible transportation options.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Other duties may be assigned that are in keeping with the goals and objectives of CARTA.

Eligibility Determination:

• Review and process applications for paratransit services, ensuring they meet ADA criteria.
• Conduct in-person or virtual interviews and functional assessments to evaluate applicants’ ability to use fixed-route transit systems.
• Analyze medical documentation and collaborate with healthcare professionals to support eligibility decisions.
• Maintain detailed records of eligibility assessments, decisions, and related correspondence in compliance with ADA regulations.

Customer Interaction:

• Provide clear communication to applicants regarding the eligibility process, including next steps, deadlines, and appeals procedures.
• Manage the appeals process for applicants denied eligibility, coordinating independent assessments as necessary.
• Educate applicants and caregivers about service policies and their transportation options.

Compliance & Reporting:

• Ensure that all eligibility determinations are compliant with ADA guidelines and local policies.
• Prepare reports on eligibility trends, denials, and appeals for internal use and external audits.
• Keep up to date with changes in ADA regulations and industry best practices.

ADA Travel Training

Travel Training Program Performance:

• Design and implement customized travel training programs for seniors and individuals with disabilities to promote increased use of fixed-route transit services.
• Lead on-site training sessions, demonstrating how to navigate public transportation, use fare payment methods, and interpret schedules and maps.
• Adapt training to meet individual’s unique needs, addressing physical, cognitive, and sensory challenges.

Outreach & Advocacy:

• Partner with community organizations, advocacy groups, and local government to promote travel training programs and increase awareness of public transit services.
• Engage in public speaking events, workshops, and one-on-one meetings to educate individuals about available transportation options and the benefits of using fixed-route transit.
• Advocate for improved accessibility within the public transit system by identifying areas for improvement and communicating needs to local transit agencies.

Ongoing Support:

• Provide follow-up support and troubleshooting assistance to individuals who have completed travel training but may need additional guidance or resources.
• Conduct periodic reviews of program effectiveness and make adjustments to improve outcomes.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE

Bachelor’s degree in social work, rehabilitation, transportation, or a related field preferred. Relevant experience may be substituted for education.

Experience:

• Minimum of 2-3 years of experience working with individuals with disabilities, seniors, or in a paratransit environment.
• Familiarity with ADA regulations and paratransit eligibility processes.
• Experience in training, teaching, or providing direct services to individuals with disabilities is highly desirable.

Skills:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work compassionately with diverse populations.
• Ability to conduct thorough assessments and make sound, objective decisions.
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail in maintaining records and managing cases.
• Knowledge of public transportation systems and schedules.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and database management systems.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods during assessments and training sessions.
• Must be able to navigate public transportation routes with individuals, including walking short distances and using transportation services.
• Willingness to travel locally for client meetings, assessments, and training.

CARTA is an equal opportunity employer.