Employment Specialist

GENERAL PURPOSE

Provide services and supports that expand equitable employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities in inclusive workplaces.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Conduct Individual Work Evaluations by observing and documenting the individual’s ability to engage in competitive employment and identify needs for accommodations.

2. Develop career goals, prepare for their job search. Seek input and encourage active participation from Individuals and the team when planning.

3. Develop opportunities for internships and volunteering that build skills and lead to competitive employment.

4. Use structured intervention techniques to teach job tasks to the employer’s specifications. Encourage Individuals to maximize production and enhance relationships with supervisors and co-workers.

5. Establish and maintain good relationships with employers at work sites. Maintain regular communication with employers to review productivity and quality of work.

6. Document daily notes, track monthly progress/goals, and prepare comprehensive reports.

7. Implement Individual Service Plans (ISP) and Individual Education Plan (IEP) goals into daily services.

8. Ensure compliance with all company policies and procedures.

9. Maintain all Individual files and maintain HIPAA compliance for privacy while ensuring best practices.

10. Provide transportation for Individuals to and from worksites as needed.

11. Participate in staff meetings, in-service training, staff development programs, professional meetings, conferences, and related programs as requested.

12. Provide personal care, medication administration and assist with adaptive accommodations as needed to support the individual.

REQUIREMENTS, SKILLS, ABILITIES & KNOWLEDGE

1. Current Medication Administration Certification

2. Current CPR and First Aid Certification

3. Current PMT Certification

4. Current Driver's License, auto insurance; and a clean driving record.

5. Skill and compassion working with and teaching individuals with disabilities.

6. Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills.

7. Demonstrated technology competency.

8. Adaptable to a variety of situations, working conditions and schedules.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

1. Ability to bend, squat, kneel, lift, twist, push and pull to complete assigned tasks.

2. Ability to walk and stand for long periods.

3. Ability to drive for individual transportation to and from home and to/from worksites.

WORK SETTING AND CONDITIONS

This position will require frequent work in the community with the Individuals. Will require frequent adjustments in work schedule in order to meet the Individuals work schedule.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Two years related experience

• Associates degree, Bachelors preferred

• CESP certification preferred