Education & Language Advocacy Specialist

Job SummaryThis role supports the parents of Deaf, DeafBlind, DeafDisabled, Hard of Hearing, LateDeafened, and hearing children in navigating the special education system. The Education & Language Advocacy Specialist provides IFSP, IEP, and ITP guidance before, during, and after meetings and serves as an advocate to ensure each child's educational and language access needs are understood and addressed. This position also focuses on empowering Deaf parents with children and hearing parents with Deaf* children through education, resources, and advocacy support.Essential Job FunctionsMinimum of three days per-week on-site presence requiredProvides pre and post IFSP, IEP, and ITP counseling to parentsAttend IFSP, IEP, and ITP meetings as an advocate alongside familiesSupport parents in understanding educational plans, services, and next stepsConduct school observations to assess learning environments and language accessShare Deaf centered language development and access best practices for ages 0 to 22 with emphasis on early childhood and kindergarten readinessConsult with the Youth & Family Services Manager on active casesProvide families with information about agencies, schools, and special education resourcesSupport and participate in parent workshops, webinars, and community education eventsTravel to schools, client locations, and community sites during the workweek as neededMaintain accurate and timely client records, case notes, and service data in SalesforceStay current on Deaf education research, best practices, and relevant lawsOther Job FunctionsSupport agency and community activities as assigned by the Direct SupervisorSubmit interpreter requests for assignments in accordance with grant and program requirementsAssist the Youth & Family Services Manager with public awareness workshops at least two times per yearStay informed on current research, best practices, and legislation related to Deaf education and special educationShare accurate and updated information with families and internal staffRequired Education and ExperienceAn Associate of Arts (AA) or Associate of Science (AS) degree in Deaf Education, Special Education, Child Development, or a closely related fieldA minimum of three (3) years of documented professional experience in a relevant educational or clinical settingFluency in American Sign Language (ASL) and in written English. Experience working with Deaf*children and their familiesKnowledge of special education laws, regulations and procedures Effective communication and interpersonal skills Proficient language skills in teaching, communication, and written english skills.Excellent interpersonal skills; ability to work independently and as part of a team.Ability to work with diverse people from different backgrounds, racial, economic, linguistic, cultural, religious, disability and communication backgroundsMust be flexible to work some evenings and weekendsAccess to reliable transportationDesired Education and Experience Bachelor's degree in Deaf Education, Special Education, or a related field; or equivalent experience in above subject mattersA minimum of five (5) years of documented professional experience in a relevant educational or clinical settingExperience conducting technical analysis that considers impacts on multiple communities, including communities of color, and incorporating diverse community perspectives into decision-making processes and outcomesExperience working on a diverse team, individuals with different ASL styles and other communication modes, and linguistically and culturally appropriate services delivery methodsProficient computer skills including word processing and database managementBenefitsEmployee Full Coverage: Health, Dental and Vision PlansOptional to add members at competitive ratesLife InsurancePaid BenefitsTwelve (12) Holidays Generous Sick LeaveCompetitive Vacation Package Weekly Wellbeing Hour*Work Location Requirement: This is a primarily in-person position. Must be based within commuting distance of San Leandro for three mandatory in-office days per week. Remote work is only permitted when approved for specific situations and is not a standard benefit. Applicants must live within the Bay Area and be available to meet with clients on short notice. This is a client-facing role requiring regular on-site presence.Our Workplace CultureOur workplace culture is a fun, challenging, and caring working environment where you can grow your career. We work together by being inclusive to everyone - including ideas, of people, of points of view. Individually, we are experts at what we do. Collectively, our impact is even greater. You'll find some of the best and most satisfied staff working for the agency. At DCARA, you will be able to use your experiences, abilities, creativity, and energy to work and discover the talents within yourself as you enrich the lives of Deaf* (Deaf, DeafBlind, Deaf with disabilities, hard of hearing, and late-deafened) community members.Living in the Bay AreaDCARA is located in the beautiful Bay Area / North Coastal of California, known for its large Deaf* community, warm climate, highly educated communities, historic buildings, and an exciting array of activities for everyone, including cultural events, professional sports, trips up and down the Pacific coastline, wine tasting in Napa and Sonoma Valley, hiking around Redwood Giants, and many other community activities. You will also live near many of the world's Global companies (Google, Apple, Facebook, for example) which are located in the Bay Area. There is no better place to live than California as the world's fifth largest economy!Equal Employment OpportunityDCARA is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace. DCARA is an at-will employer and proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, including Deaf, DeafBlind, Deaf with disabilities, hard of hearing, and late deafened people. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or any other protected characteristic.How to ApplyInterested applicants should submit their resume and cover letter to us in empowering Deaf* communities! Be a leader, an advocate, and a champion for change at DCARA.

Created: 2026-04-02