Disability coordinators organize services that people with disabilities and their families receive. They may also provide education and training to people they work with, and other businesses, agencies and organizations. Aspiring disability coordinators must have the right qualifications and might need additional education, training and certification.

Working as a Disability Services Coordinator

The role of a disability coordinator varies depends on employer. For example, the disability services coordinator for the Mayor's Office for People with Disabilities in Chicago pairs disabled men and women with employment opportunities and helps prepare them for jobs, while the disability services coordinator at Durham Technical Community College counsels and works with enrolled students who have disabilities. The disability services coordinator at a skilled living facility or health services department may ensure that patients with disabilities get the services they need, and make sure that their families understand their specific needs.

Meeting Basic Requirements

To succeed as a disability services coordinator, you must know about programs and services available to people who have disabilities and how to work independently as well as with a team. Have strong decision-making skills, good judgment and the ability to effectively advocate on behalf of people who have disabilities. You also need excellent oral and written communications skills and be able to work well with others. You may also need to know how to plan, supervise and evaluate the work of others. Being comfortable using Microsoft office and other programs are standard for the job.

Meeting Education Requirements

Most employers expect disability services coordinators to have at least a bachelor's degree and some may prefer a master's degree in special education, rehabilitation, counseling, psychology, social sciences or a related field, especially for coordinators who hold a management position. An employer may be willing to hire someone who has less education. For example, a disability services coordinator at Saint Louis University who works with students who have disabilities can qualify for the position with just an associate's degree. Employers may weigh your education and previous experience when reviewing your qualifications. For example, you may qualify for a position by having a bachelor's degree and at least three years of experience directly developing and implementing programs for people with disabilities.

Earning Necessary Licensure

Some employers require disability services coordinators to have special licenses. For example, you may need to have certification as a rehabilitation counselor, national interpreter or national assistive technology professional.