At YAI, RNs support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) in residential programs. In this role, the people we support are more than just patients — RNs spend time getting to know them and providing appropriate care for people with I/DD. A highly autonomous role, working as an RN at YAI involves direct medical care, training staff in monitoring medical systems, and participating in management meetings. 

While tasks of an RN differ by program and specialty, nurses at YAI have a mix of administrative tasks and direct care. Responsibilities include:  

• Participating in the assessment, planning, and implementation of medical care, which entails: 

  • Recording medical histories and symptoms 

  • Administering medicine and treatments 

  • Setting up plans of care 

• Providing oversight and training of direct care staff in monitoring medical systems 

• Participating in team meetings and providing medically related in-services to program staff 

In YAI residential programs, registered nurses regularly engage with the people they provide services to, establishing long-term relationships. Unlike in a hospital, the people we support live in group homes for years, with the RN monitoring the health and medication of a set number of residents with I/DD. An important part of being an RN at YAI involves socializing and spending time with a group of people to understand their underlying medical conditions and provide suggestions for improved quality of life.  

• You must have a valid license and current registration as a Registered Professional Nurse issued by the New York State Department of Education (NYSED).
• Previous experience in one or more of the following is preferred:
  • Nursing in an OPWDD-certified setting (LPN and/or RN)
  • As a Registered Nurse in any setting (hospital, clinic, etc.)
  • Supporting people with I/DD in a direct care or other capacity
  • Working in a nursing home, assisted living facility and/or rehabilitation center

Yes, we have several incentives at YAI:

• Hire Rates – Newly hired RNs can expect an annualized salary between $85,000 and $95,000 for full-time assignments based on their level of education and nursing experience. RNs with a BSN or MSN degree at time of hire and/or with two years of nursing (LPN or RN) experience in an OPWDD-certified setting or with three years of RN experience in any setting are eligible for rates above $85,000 at hire. Specifics will be discussed during your interview.
• Bonus – Full-time nurses with BSN/MSN at time of hire will receive retention bonuses of $5,000 after two and three years of service. RNs earning a BSN or MSN after hire are eligible for the retention bonuses two and three years after earning their degree. Starting July 1, 2024, non-BSN/MSN nurses will receive a bonus of $2,000 after two years of service and part-time, salaried RNs regularly scheduled for 20+ hours per week are eligible for 50% of the applicable retention bonus(es).
• Experience Differentials - Starting July 1, 2024, all newly hired salaried RNs that are regularly scheduled for 20+ hours per week will be eligible for an annual experience differential, paid evenly across 24 paychecks based on their hire date for the first five (5) years of employment. This experience differential varies by year and will increase after each year of service. 
• Tuition Reimbursement – Candidates working toward their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) can receive up to $5,250 in tuition reimbursement annually and RNs that newly earn a BSN or MSN degree after hire will receive up to a $3,000 base salary increase following verification of degree completion.