Walk-In Interviews Employment Services Program October 8, 2026 AT 2PM-5PM

We’re holding a walk-in interview event on Thursday October 8, 2026, 2:00pm-5:00pm 

Event Location:

Abilities First Inc

70 Overocker Rd

Poughkeepsie, NY 12603

For over 60 years, Abilities First, Inc. has been empowering individuals with developmental disabilities to live their most vibrant, independent lives. From early education to adulthood, our wide range of services—including preschool and school programs, day and residential habilitation, community connections, and employment services—are designed to uplift every individual’s unique strengths and dreams.

We believe in the power of people—of every background, identity, and ability—to create change and build a more inclusive world. Abilities First is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is welcoming and supportive of people of varying abilities, races, ethnicities, religions, socio-economic status, gender and gender identities. At Abilities First, you’ll join a mission-driven team that values collaboration, celebrates individuality, and is dedicated to meaningful work. If you're ready to turn your passion into purpose, we’d love to welcome you aboard.

We're hiring....

Program Developer: Abilities First is seeking a full time Program Developer. The Program Developer’s primary function is to facilitate the transition for adults to competitive employment with the goal being community based, paid employment. Additionally, to obtain and or create qualitative, community-based employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities and maintain employer relationships for future placement possibilities. This will be achieved through establishing a network of relationships with the local business community and related agencies. 

Schedule: Monday - Friday Day Shift 40 hours per week

Salary range $18.63- $20.63 per hour

Job Coach School to Work, Vocational Specialist: This position works with students ages 14 – 21 receiving special education services, facilitating the transition from highly supported school environment to adult work life. Our School to Work Program provides mentoring and assistance, assessing each student’s strengths, areas of interest, and areas of need. Work-study opportunities are arranged as hands-on, unpaid work experiences, similar to “internships” in an area of interest the student determines.

Schedule: Monday - Thursday 7:45am - 4:00pm and Friday 8am - 2pm (37 hours per week)

Salary range $18.37-$20.37

Perks & Benefits:

• Time to Recharge – Vacation, personal, sick, and holidays built around the school calendar
• Health & Wellness – Medical, dental, and vision plans to keep you covered
• Plan For The Future – 401(k) with employer match and employer-paid life insurance
• Level Up Your Skills– Tuition reimbursement and online training through the College of Direct Support (and to boost your earning potential)
• Get Paid When You Need It – On Demand Pay gives you access to earnings as early as the next day

• All positions require High School Diploma or equivalent
• Valid NYS Driver License deemed acceptable by our insurance company is required
• Related field experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities

Physical Demands:

Described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential responsibilities and functions of the job and are not meant to be all inclusive. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential responsibilities and functions of the job. Unless reasonable accommodations can be made, in order to perform the essential functions of this job, an individual shall be required to:

1. Have the ability to lift up to 50 lbs., bend, squat, turn in the knees, pivot and grasp with both hands (in order to properly and safely perform the techniques taught in CPR/First Aid, behavior intervention techniques, and lifting and carrying techniques).
2. Have the ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time.
3. Possess verbal and written communication skills, in English, to ensure adequate regulatory documentation.

At Abilities First, we recognize that talent and potential come in many forms. If this position inspires you but your experience does not align with every preferred qualification, we still encourage you to apply. You may be the right candidate for this role—or another opportunity within our organization