COTA Community Employment Specialist - Kansas City

COTA Community Employment Specialist - Kansas City

Our mission is to build brighter futures for children and adults with disabilities by providing comprehensive educational, vocational and therapeutic services.

Under general direction of the Branch Manager, the COTA Community Employment Specialist applies clinical experience with individuals with neurological & medical diagnoses to coordinate employment planning, vocational assessment including worksite development and training, job development/placement, retention and training of persons served.

On a regular basis, the COTA Community Employment Specialist will have in-person and remote contact with persons served, referral sources, employers, management and team members. The Community Employment Specialist will engage in part or all activities as assigned to support vocational outcomes.

The COTA Community Employment Specialist will be knowledgeable to perform essential functions of this position, including:

• Employment client case management for employment services programs
• Relationship management with Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors from all referring Vocational Rehabilitation offices.
• Employer relationship management, with focus on employers with strong diversity and inclusion hiring programs.
• Internal report and tracking generation to support weekly, monthly, quarterly and annual program and department objectives and outcomes.
• Employment Services department team management towards achievement of agency accreditation (CARF) and licensure to grants standards.
• Participation and completion of Ability KC professional development and culture activities.
• Participates in cross training the ES team to expand knowledge and expertise of the needs of individuals with neurological & medical diagnoses related to their vocational goals
• Completion of required continuing education according to vocational rehabilitation and Ability KC guidelines.

Education:

• Associate degree from an AOTA accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program.
• 2+ years working as a COTA in neuro rehab
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and database software.

Experience:

• Experience working within a neuro-rehabilitation based organization and knowledge of associated regulatory protocols, and knowledge of medical terminology.
• Experience working and supporting individuals with disabilities, specifically in the area of community employment.
• Experience in providing employment services, including vocational goal planning, basic resume writing, job board exploration and review, job search, job application preparation and assistance, interview preparation and assistance.
• Knowledge and application of the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) and jobsite accommodations

Knowledge/Skills/Licensure/Certification:

• Strong verbal and written communication skills, both within the organization and with external partners.
• Strong organization skills, specifically in the area of individual client management.
• Demonstrated initiative to grow within all aspects of responsibilities.
• Ability to pass a drug screening test/criminal background check.
• Clean driving record and proof of vehicle insurance.
• CPR certification
• CBIS certification is required (Certified Brain Injury Specialist)

Who We Are:

Ability KC is built on a strong funding legacy that continues to inspire the work done each day for children and adults with disabilities and their families. Since 1947, Ability KC has been providing highly specialized care to address the needs of individuals with high medical complexities as related to stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, amputations, developmental disabilities and a variety of rare and complex disabilities in the Kansas City community.

Our Culture:

We emphasize the well-being of every individual, ensuring there is meaning in what we do each day, with dedication to quality relationships, security in our finances, vibrancy in our physical and mental health and recent pride in contributions to our community. Our culture is built on three pillar principles – make a positive impact every day, embrace legacy and innovation, and together we rise.

Ability KC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis or disability.

Background and post offer drug screenings required.