Office Specialist/Advocate

About us

Disability Rights Michigan is the agency designated by the Governor of the State of Michigan to protect and advocate for the legal rights of individuals with disabilities. DRM values the civil rights of all people and believes a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workforce is necessary to accomplish our mission. DRM is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, political belief, creed, national origin, marital status, military status or disability.

Disability Rights Michigan (DRM) has an immediate full-time (37.5 hours per week) joint Office Specialist/Advocate position in our satellite office located in Marquette. The individual will provide in-office reception coverage for incoming calls, provides operational and administrative support for the office and the Director of Education Advocacy. Conducts direct advocacy; information and referral; data collection; reporting; and outreach and training to address agency mission and focus areas for individuals with disabilities.

Other Responsibilities:

- Provide administrative support to the office and Director of Education Advocacy.
- Answer and direct phone calls in a professional and courteous manner.
- Provide information and assistance to clients and their families including explanation of disability laws, client rights under the law, options available, means of achieving rights/desired outcomes and resolving problem situaitions.
- Refers individuals to other agencies or community resources as appropriate.

- Provides operational and adminstrative support for the office including maintaining the phone system, office supplies, mail, equipment, correspondence and support to other staff.

Experience:

-Two-year degree in human service areas or equivalent education and experience.
-Two years' experience in human service area or in a postion working with clients/customers.
-Demonstrated effective communication and problem solving skills, including the ability to listen and respond in a diplomatic manner.
- Previous experience in an administrative role is preferred.
- Demonstrated committement to the civil rights of persons with disabilities.
- Ability to multitask and prioritize tasks effectively.
- Skills to effectively deal with and negotiate through confrontational situations and stressful interactions.
- Excellent phone etiquette and communication skills to respond to telephone and e-mail inquiries.

Please note that this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $45,500.00 - $53,500.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person