Support Brokers

What is a Supports Broker?

A Supports Broker is a certified professional who assists individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families in managing their self-directed services under Pennsylvania’s Office of Developmental Programs (ODP). Supports Brokers work primarily with participants in the Participant-Directed Services (PDS) model, helping them exercise choice and control over their services while staying in compliance with program rules.

What Does a Supports Broker Do?

A Supports Broker can:

• Guide participants through the self-directed process, explaining rights, responsibilities, and options.
• Help develop and implement service plans for hiring staff, which include creating job descriptions for direct support staff.
• Support the recruitment, hiring, and management of support service professional (SSP)direct care workers (DCW), ensuring families understand how to supervise and evaluate staff.
• Assist with budgeting and managing allocated funds, helping ensure services stay within approved spending levels.
• Provide education and resources so participants and their families can confidently direct their own services.
• Maintain compliance with ODP regulations, helping families understand paperwork, documentation, and employer-related responsibilities.

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Job Description

Location: Remote/In-Community | Serving Individuals with IDD

Type: Part-Time or Full-Time | Flexible Schedule

Position Summary:
Supports Brokers play a vital role in empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) who self-direct their services under Pennsylvania’s ODP waivers (such as Consolidated, Community Living, or P/FDS). The Supports Broker helps participants and their families manage services, hire staff, coordinate resources, and ensure that all supports align with the individual’s person-centered goals.

Key Responsibilities:

Support individuals and their families in navigating the Participant-Directed Services (PDS) model under ODP
Assist with the recruitment, hiring, and supervision of Support Service Professionals (SSPs) or Direct Care Workers (DCWs)
Train individuals and families on their roles as Common Law Employers (CLEs)

Help develop and maintain:

Back-up plans
Service budgets
Emergency response protocols
Facilitate effective communication among the individual, family, support staff, Financial Management Services (FMS), and Supports Coordinators (SC)
Promote natural supports and community integration
Assist with timesheet approval, verification, and documentation for billing purposes
Monitor service implementation and ensure compliance with ODP and waiver guidelines
Maintain accurate, timely records and provide periodic reports to SCs and AEs
Provide support for annual ISP reviews and updates

Qualifications:

Must be at least 18 years old
High School Diploma or GED required; Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Social Work, or related field preferred
Must complete ODP-required Supports Broker Certification Training
Understanding of ODP waiver services and Participant-Directed Services (PDS)
Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
Experience working with individuals with IDD or in service coordination preferred
Clearances: PA Criminal Background, Child Abuse, and FBI (if applicable)
Ability to work independently, manage multiple cases, and maintain confidentiality
Access to reliable internet, phone, and transportation if working in the field

Preferred Traits:

Person-centered and culturally responsive
Detail-oriented and organized
Reliable and accountable
Collaborative and solution-focused

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