Autism Waiver and Transition Specialist
Part-time/full-time depending on client need. Hourly rate depending on qualifications and experience.
As an Autism Waiver and Transition Specialist you will support adults with autism – especially youth transitioning out of the school system – as they navigate Pennsylvania’s Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) waiver system. This role ensures a seamless transition from school to adult services by protecting each individual’s health, safety, and rights while maintaining continuity of supports. It also facilitates timely determination of waiver eligibility, enrollment, and service authorization, while guiding person-centered planning that reflects each individual’s assessed needs, preferences, and long-term life goals.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
ODP Waiver Navigation and Eligibility Support: You will assist individuals and families in navigating eligibility for the Consolidated, Community Living, P/FDS, and Adult Autism Waivers, while guiding them through the completion and submission of all required assessments, documentation, and application materials. It requires staying current with ODP guidelines, regulatory updates, and waiting list processes, and maintaining clear, consistent communication with families about timelines, requirements, and next steps throughout the waiver process.
Individual Transition & Planning Oversight: You will oversee transition planning starting at ages 14-16 in alignment with IEP and ODP ISP requirements, ensuring plans address employment goals, community participation, post-secondary or vocational pathways, and daily living, behavioral, medical, and personal support needs. It involves coordinating closely with families, school districts, supports coordination organizations, partner agencies, and behavioral and medical professionals to ensure a smooth shift into adult services, while also educating individuals and families about available resources, supports, and programs.
Waiver Process Management, Compliance, and Renewals: You will oversee all components of functional eligibility and needs assessments, coordinating Medical Assistance (MA) requirements, submitting and tracking waiver applications, collecting necessary documentation, and maintaining communication with Supports Coordination Organizations (SCOs) and Administrative Entities (AEs). This role also involves closely monitoring waiver status to prevent any gaps, delays, or lapses in authorized services and ensuring families remain informed and supported throughout the process.
Ongoing compliance responsibilities include maintaining and updating service plans and required documentation, supporting annual reviews, renewals, and reassessments, and ensuring all services align with ODP service definitions, provider qualifications, and authorization requirements. The role also requires addressing and resolving issues such as service denials or interruptions to ensure uninterrupted access to supports.
Qualifications and Requirements
Education & Certification
Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Education, Special Education, Counseling, Social Work, or related degree.
Preferred Professional Experience
– Seven (7) years direct experience working with individuals with autism and/or intellectual disability. Experience working with transitioning individuals preferred.
– Demonstrated experience:
o Navigating ODP requirements, waiver enrollment processes, and documentation standards in compliance with federal and state regulations.
o Collaborating with individuals, families, providers, and interdisciplinary teams to ensure coordinated, meaningful, and consistent service outcomes.
Core Competencies & Knowledge
– Strong knowledge of the ODP waiver system and application processes for the Consolidated, Community Living, P/FDS, and Adult Autism Waivers.
– Experience supporting individuals with autism, particularly during school-to-adult transitions.
– Understanding of person-centered planning, HCBS principles, and community-based support models.
– Excellent communication, organizational, and advocacy skills.
– Ability to collaborate effectively with schools, SCOs, providers, and state agencies.
– Passion for empowering individuals with autism toward independence and meaningful community involvement.
Please email rachel@happynoises.org to apply or go to Linked In and apply
https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/view/4376516030
When applying, mention you saw this opening listed on Disability Scoop.