VOCATIONAL LEAD

OVERVIEW:

The Vocational Lead is a direct-service and administrative support position within the Supported Employment (SEMP) and/or Pre-Vocational Program. The Lead maintains an active participant caseload while providing day-to-day program support under the direction of the Vocational Coordinator.

The Vocational Lead supports the organization and coordination of program operations, including documentation, reporting and data tracking. The Lead assists with reviewing program data and helping ensure services are delivered consistently and in accordance with program expectations.

Within SEMP and Pre-Vocational Services, the Vocational Lead also supports the development and delivery of vocational programming. Responsibilities include facilitating classes, developing and implementing curriculum, coordinating learning and skill-building opportunities, and identifying volunteer and community-based experiences that support participants in developing employment readiness and vocational skills.

The Lead assists with new staff onboarding, training, and ongoing support, including orientation to program procedures, documentation requirements, systems, workflows, and service expectations. The Lead serves as a resource to staff for routine program processes and helps reinforce consistent practices across the team.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain an active caseload and provide direct, billable services to assigned participants.
• Develop curriculum and facilitate vocational classes, training sessions, and skill-building activities based on participant needs and program goals.
• Provide individualized vocational services in accordance with participants’ Life Plans, Staff Action Plans, employment goals, and authorized services.
• Maintain consistent communication with participants, families, employers, and other members of the Circle of Support, as appropriate.
• Complete all required service documentation accurately and within established timeframes.
• Monitor participant progress toward vocational and employment goals and communicate concerns, changes, barriers, and support needs to the Vocational Coordinator.
• Maintain established productivity, caseload, and billing expectations.

Administrative Responsibilities

• Maintain and update designated program trackers, rosters, spreadsheets, and other operational records.
• Review and approve program data and identify missing or incomplete information for follow-up with direct support staff.
• Assist with collecting information needed for monthly and quarterly reporting.
• Track deadlines and provide the Coordinator with updates regarding outstanding documentation or administrative requirements.
• Support organization of program files and required records.
• Assist with preparation for internal reviews, audits, and quality-assurance activities.
• Complete other designated administrative projects that support efficient program operations.

Operational Support

• Support onboarding and orientation of new staff as directed by the Coordinator.
• Assist with communicating program reminders, deadlines, and operational updates as directed.
• Participate in team meetings, trainings, and program planning activities.
• Escalate participant, staff, compliance, or operational concerns to the Vocational Services Coordinator.

Additional Responsibilities

• Maintain regular communication with the Vocational Coordinator regarding caseload and administrative responsibilities.
• Remain available to address assigned program needs within the scope of the Lead role.
• Attend required trainings, meetings, and organizational activities.
• Maintain professional relationships with participants, families, employers, staff, and community partners.
• Complete additional direct-service or administrative responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications

• Experience providing employment or vocational services to individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities required
• Strong organizational, documentation, and time-management skills.
• Ability to balance direct-service responsibilities with administrative deadlines.
• Must be computer proficient, including use of spreadsheets and electronic documentation systems.
• Valid NYS Driver's License required.
• Must have reliable transportation with proof of insurance and registration.
• Smartphone required.