Vocational Specialist

Vocational Specialist - Monroe Oxford Community Program JobID: 3357 Position Type: Support Services/Staff/ Vocational Specialist - Monroe Oxford Community Program Date Posted: 8/12/2026 Location: Districtwide Date Available: ASAP Closing Date: 09/25/2026 Job Description: Vocational Specialist – Transition Program (18–22) School Year: 2026–2027 Position Overview The Vocational Specialist supports the 18–22 Transition Program by assisting students with disabilities in developing vocational, independent living, and community-based skills. This position works under the direction of the Transition Program teacher and provides direct job coaching, community-based instruction, and support in the development of post‑secondary readiness skills. The Vocational Specialist plays a key role in helping students increase independence, build work skills, and access meaningful employment opportunities in the community. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Instructional & Student Support Support the Transition Program teacher in implementing vocational and life skills instruction for students ages 18–22 Provide direct instruction and reinforcement of job‑related skills in school‑based and community settings Work readiness skills (punctuality, task completion, workplace behavior) Communication and social skills in work environments Independent living skills (as aligned to program goals) Use systematic instruction, prompting, and fading strategies to increase student independence Support data collection on student progress toward IEP transition goals Provide safe transportation of students to community‑based vocational and instructional sites using district‑approved vehicles, as required Job Coaching & Community-Based Support Serve as a job coach for students at community‑based employment sites Provide on‑site coaching, modeling, and supervision at job placements Support students in learning and completing job tasks at various work sites Assist with identifying natural supports in the workplace to promote independence Support students in generalizing skills across multiple community settings Accompany students on community‑based instruction (CBI) experiences and vocational training outings Employment & Community Partnerships Assist in identifying and developing job sites within Monroe, Oxford, and surrounding communities Build and maintain positive relationships with local businesses and community partners Support coordination of student internships, volunteer placements, and job sampling opportunities Communicate with employers (as directed by the teacher/program) regarding student support needs and progress Program & Classroom Support Assist in planning and implementing vocational and life skills programming Support classroom organization, materials preparation, and instructional setup Collaborate with the Transition teacher and program team to ensure alignment of instruction with IEP goals Support student participation in classroom‑based independent living instruction (e.g., budgeting, cooking, social skills, safety skills) Family & Team Collaboration Participate in team meetings, including IEP/PPT meetings, as appropriate Assist with program events such as: Open houses Community showcases Transition fairs and informational nights Professional Responsibilities Maintain confidentiality of student records and information Follow all district, school, and safety procedures Participate in professional learning opportunities related to transition services, vocational training, and job coaching Work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary transition team Qualifications Experience working with individuals with disabilities, preferably adolescents or young adults Experience in job coaching, vocational training, or community‑based instruction preferred Strong communication, collaboration, and problem‑solving skills Ability to work independently in community settings Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation preferred Must obtain and maintain certification to operate district activity vans and meet all state and district requirements for student transportation safety and training Ability to build positive relationships with students, families, and community partners Preferred Attributes Experience in special education or transition programming (18–22) Familiarity with IEP transition planning and employment readiness skills Comfort working in community‑based environments and job sites Strong belief in promoting student independence and dignity in adult outcomes #J-18808-Ljbffr