Community Support Specialist

Community Support Specialist

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Community Support Specialist.

Position Details

Location: Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001, United States

Division: Institute for Disability Study

Position Type: Staff

Employment Status: Part Time

Grant Funded: Yes

Posting Close Date: Open Until Filled

Special Instructions to Applicants

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).

Job Summary

This position is located in the Jackson metro area, it is a non-benefited part-time position receiving 12-16 hours of work each week. Community Support Specialists provide individualized, skill development training to persons with brain or head injury, neurological illness, or cognitive impairment in their own environment as well as volunteer environment. Services may include: assist to develop schedules, develop & modify compensation strategies, and assist with problem solving issues related to everyday life. Areas may include: development/implementation of strategies to address household management, meal preparation, budgeting, vocational/volunteer exploration, cognitive skill training, etc.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

1. Assists with development of daily activities schedules to include meal planning, meal preparation, exercise, grocery shopping, volunteering, recreation, etc.
2. Develop and modify compensation strategies.
3. Assists with developing problem solving strategies for the client to use to address obstacles and challenges associated with daily activities.
4. Assists with the development and implementation of strategies to address household management, meal planning and preparation, budgeting, vocation/volunteer exploration, and cognitive skill training.
5. Assists with transportation to and from appointments and outings.
6. Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Associate's degree from an accredited college or university and six months of related experience in providing direct support services to individuals with traumatic brain injuries. Related experience on a year-for-year basis may be substituted for required education.

• Experience with physical therapy and or coaching
• Skill in talking to others to convey information effectively.
• Ability to accurately prepare and maintain records, files, and reports electronically.
• Ability to communicate effectively in both oral and written form.
• Ability to maintain effective interpersonal relationships.
• Ability to understand and follow instructions.
• Ability to prepare concise reports.
• Ability to obtain a driver's license prior to employment.

About The University of Southern Mississippi

Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.

Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.

We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We're developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life.

The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.