Employment Specialist

Employment Specialist

EASTCONN's Transition Academy is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Employment Specialist to join our team. This position provides an opportunity to make a meaningful impact by supporting students with special education needs as they develop career skills, build independence, and become active members of their communities.

The Employment Specialist works directly with students to identify and develop employment opportunities that align with their interests, strengths, and individual needs. The successful candidate will build positive relationships with students, families, school teams, and local employers while providing individualized coaching and support in workplace and community settings.

Key Responsibilities:

• Identify and develop appropriate job placements and career exploration opportunities for students with a variety of abilities and support needs.
• Provide individualized job coaching, instruction, and ongoing support to students in workplace and community settings.
• Assist students in developing essential workplace skills, including communication, professionalism, time management, problem-solving, and independence.
• Create and maintain student work schedules and coordinate transportation and community-based activities.
• Safely transport students to employment sites, community activities, and other program-related locations.
• Communicate regularly with employers, students, families, and school-based teams regarding student progress and employment needs.
• Establish and maintain positive relationships with local businesses and community partners.
• Collaborate with teachers, transition staff, related service providers, and other members of the educational team to support students' transition goals.
• Monitor student performance and provide feedback to help students achieve greater independence in the workplace.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation related to student employment and program activities.
• Support students in exploring career interests, developing vocational skills, and preparing for successful post-secondary employment.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the mission and goals of the Transition Academy.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience working with students or individuals with social, emotional, and behavioral needs preferred.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Ability to establish positive relationships with students, employers, families, and school personnel.
• Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Valid driver's license and the ability to obtain an STV (School Transportation Vehicle) license to transport students. EASTCONN will facilitate the STV licensing process.
• Ability to travel throughout the community and work in a variety of employment and community-based settings.

Special Requirements:

• Within six (6) months of appointment, successfully complete PMT (Physical Management Techniques) training and maintain annual recertification. Training is provided by EASTCONN at no cost to the employee.
• Within one (1) year of appointment, successfully complete and maintain First Aid and CPR certification.

Benefits:

EASTCONN offers a competitive benefits package for eligible employees that may include:

• Medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance
• Participation in the Connecticut State Partnership Health Plan (where applicable)
• Retirement plan participation
• Paid sick leave, and personal leave (as applicable)
• Employer paid life insurance and voluntary employee paid supplemental life insurance available
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Professional development opportunities

At EASTCONN, we believe that diversity is key to our success. We encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply, including those who may not meet every listed qualification. Your passion, drive, and perspective are what matter most to us.

As an EEO/AA employer, EASTCONN provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person's race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, and caste, which is protected by our policies.

AA/EOE

M/F/D/V