Employment Specialist

Black Hills Special Services Cooperative (BHSSC) is a public entity that is an educational cooperative under the State of South Dakota. BHSSC is comprised of five divisions dedicated to aiding school districts, individuals, and the communities. Join our dynamic team at Black Hills Special Services Cooperative as an Employment Specialist! In this role, you will have the opportunity to provide individualized support to high school teens with disabilities, helping them acquire competitive and marketable skills through hands‑on training and job coaching. You will collaborate with the team of instructors and employment specialists, employers, participants, and their families to create a supportive and engaging environment that fosters growth and success. If you're dedicated, compassionate, and eager to contribute to a meaningful cause, we invite you to apply and be a part of our mission to empower individuals and transform lives. Wage $18.00 – $19.00/hour based on experience Job Type Full‑time, non‑exempt Work Location Rapid City, SD Job Description Provide individualized support for high school teens with disabilities in a part‑time employment, including: Initial training of internship tasks utilizing systematic instruction techniques. Building natural supports. Developing accommodations and identifying appropriate assistive technology. Develop task analysis when needed to support the students to learn and perform tasks to the required productivity and quality standards. Identify and implement training strategies and/or services with the team and host business staff. Identify and develop employer relationships with businesses willing to hire a disabled teen part‑time. Work with students, employers, families, agency personnel, and other appropriate parties to problem‑solve employment‑related issues. Attend Employment Planning Meetings with the students and all team members to understand the student's career interests, specific job preferences, skills, and abilities, and develop an individualized employment plan based on the student's needs and goals. Assist in creating and implementing the employment plan by facilitating job searches, providing training, and developing specific goals, objectives, and activities to ensure a successful transition to work. Travel within Rapid City and surrounding areas. Other duties as assigned. Job Qualifications High School Diploma or GED Certificate. Experience with youth and adults with disabilities preferred. Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to stand for 2–8 hours per day working with students at their job sites. Valid Driver's License. Benefits Health, Dental, and Life Insurance Health Savings Account Options South Dakota Retirement Annual Leave Sick Leave Because BHSSC is an educational cooperative under the State of South Dakota, all employees are required to undergo a criminal background investigation. #J-18808-Ljbffr