Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need experience?
No, you do not! We offer a range of employment opportunities to those new to our field and wish to gain experience. For our direct support positions, no experience is required since we provide all the necessary training and hands on experience to grow successfully within the position. This opportunity is great for people looking to have a positive impact on others, students, and people looking to gain valuable experience.
Who do we support?
We provide support to individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. We provide supports and services in their homes and the community throughout Ventura County. SAGE supports individuals 18 and older with a variety of support needs and diagnoses. SAGE is primarily funded through Tri-Counties Regional Center.
What does the day to day look like?
Everyday looks different for everyone, which is one of the most magical parts of this type of work. SAGE is designed to provide individualized support to each person, meeting them where they are at. Daily support will vary based on the person we are supporting and their individualized needs. Support may include teaching/training/supporting someone with medical appointments, grocery shopping, menu planning, cleaning, cooking, emergency skills, transportation training, community connecting, money management, personal care, medication support, checking mail, laundry, organizing, coping skills, health & wellness goals, exercising, behavioral support, etc.
What is the on-boarding experience?
We got you covered every step of the way! Our team is dedicated to supporting you. SAGE's on-boarding experience is always evolving to be as simple and quick as possible for our new team members. SAGE completes application reviews, references, interviewing, background checks, drug screening, HR on-boarding paperwork, new employee orientation, and training.
What benefits are offered?
We offer many benefits to all eligible employees, including but not limited to health insurance with employer contribution, dental, vision, Alfac, 401K, vacation time, sick time, bereavement time, holiday pay, mileage reimbursement, birthday bonuses, employee referral bonuses, phone/data stipend, employee resource center, promotional/growth opportunities, trainings, etc. We also offer an inviting, inclusive, comfortable working environment and culture with tons of supports throughout your employment!
What is the background check?
We require all employees to obtain Department of Justice (DOJ) and FBI clearances, as a non-negotiable condition of employment. SAGE pays for the upfront cost of the employee to obtain the Department of Justice (DOJ) and FBI background checks. As a provider/vendor of Tri-Counties Regional Center and Pursuant to Title 17 California Code of Regulations Section 58643 58614(c)(7), SAGE shall not employ any person with any felony conviction or record of physical, sexual, or fiduciary offenses. SAGE exercises zero tolerance for any incident (past or future) that may compromise the integrity of the services and supports we provide to individuals.
What advancement opportunities are there?
We are proud of our long history of promoting from within and encourages the team to have open conversations about growth opportunities. SAGE offers training opportunities to all employees. The majority of our leadership team is comprised of community coach promotions.
What is the training like?
We pride ourselves in training our employees to the fullest! SAGE offers and pays for training in the following areas: First Aid/CPR, Sexual Harassment, Competency Based Trainings, on the job training in the field overlapping another employee prior to supporting someone alone, Non-Violent Crisis Intervention (NCI) training, specialized trainings for many areas such as seizures, diabetes, non-verbal communication, etc.
Do I have to drive someone?
Yes, driving is a requirement for most positions at SAGE. We encourage the use of public transportation to support individuals in gaining skills and becoming more independent. When public transportation is not in someone's best interest or available, SAGE employees transport individuals in their own vehicles to meet their needs for medical appointments, grocery shopping, errands, and connecting with the community. All SAGE employees are required to have an active driver's license, access to a vehicle, and maintain current car insurance. SAGE reimburses mileage while on the clock at the federal reimbursement rate per mile.
Can I request time off?
Of course! SAGE believes time off is necessary to keep us healthy and balanced. Time off is granted on a first come first serve basis. Employees are required to submit a request form at least 14 days in advance for non-holidays and 21 days in advance for holidays. SAGE prides itself in approving all requests for time off when possible and will make every effort to approve requests submitted on time and within policy.
What if I am not a good match for someone I support?
We do our best to match our employees to support individuals based on many factors like interests, location, availability, characteristics, qualities, gifts and skills. Sometimes if it is not a good match at first, we work together as partners to brainstorm what is working and not working and offer additional support and training where it is beneficial. If all solutions have been explored, we would then look at reassigning you to another individual you could best support.
On-Boarding Experience
SAGE's on-boarding experience is always evolving to be as simple and quick as possible for our new team members. SAGE completes application reviews, references, interviewing, background checks, drug screening, HR on-boarding paperwork, new employee orientation, and training.