Employment Specialist

Job Title: Employment Specialist Department: Employment Services Reports To: Director of Employment Services FLSA: Non-Exempt

SUMMARY

The Employment Specialist will support individuals with disabilities in identifying an appropriate job goal and assist individuals in finding and maintaining competitive, community-based employment.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Attend planning meetings for all assigned individuals. This includes Vocational Rehabilitation and DMH individuals. Transport program individuals, when related to vocational activities as directed or approved by your supervisor. Assist program individuals with performance on new job tasks and help them understand the job culture, industry practices, and work behaviors expected by the employer. Work with employers and individual’s co-workers to understand the training methods and accommodations that are needed. Work alongside the individual to help them learn their new work tasks. Assist the individual in identifying and developing natural supports at the work site. Assist the individual in learning and understanding their workplace culture. Create job aids, task analysis and other tools to foster ongoing success and independence. Develop community-based program assessment and job placement sites by networking in the community’s and settings individuals want to work. Share community contacts and job lead information with coworkers. Develop effective strategies for individualized job development and placement. Attend training and other events to establish collaborative relationships with other community entities which promote community employment. Meet established outcomes goals to provide positive employment outcomes for clients. Work with area employers to understand the benefits of hiring employees with disabilities. Document within 24 hours any services provided in Therapy or within timelines established by department leadership and agency policies. Conduct appropriate, person-centered Community Based Assessments within the timeframe established following the agreed upon plan during the initial vocational planning meeting. Write reports that are accurate and appropriate within timelines established by department leadership and agency policies. Assist individuals with accessing community resources that could affect the ability to obtain or maintain employment. Teach job searching skills, interview skills, soft skills and application/resume writing as appropriate. Meet with individuals on assigned caseload weekly to work on vocational planning and job search related activities unless specified differently in the individual’s plan. Abide by ethical and legal considerations of case communication and recording (HIPAA compliance). Meet performance goals for customer satisfaction, referrals and placement as defined by department management. Use computers or mobile devices to input, access, modify, or output information efficiently and effectively. Demonstrate effective time management by maintaining a reliable schedule to support both individual and team goals. Maintain professionalism in communication and actively contribute to a positive and respectful team culture. Maintain professional appearance, appropriate to the day’s tasks. Perform any other duties as assigned.

OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES AND REQUIREMENTS

Knowledge of programs and services for people with developmental disabilities is preferred. Willingness to travel on company business in personal or company vehicle. Good written and oral communication skills. Ability to be flexible. Respect the rights and dignity of people with Developmental Disabilities and willingness to advocate on their behalf.

PHYSICAL EXPECTATIONS

This position requires extended periods of walking and standing with some periods of sitting which is dependent upon the needs and activities of the individuals supported. It may require light to heavy lifting, up to 50 pounds independently, and occasional stooping, kneeling, bending, and/or climbing stairs depending on the needs of the individual supported.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Office/home/community environment with noises from appliances, telephones, and occasional small machinery (lawn mower, etc.). May be exposed to bloodborne pathogens and/or infectious diseases. Occasionally prolonged hours or unusual tasks to meet the unexpected needs of the individuals.

QUALIFICATIONS

Four years of comparable experience preferred. Bachelor’s degree preferred; fields include Psychology, Sociology, Social Work, Human Resources, Business Administration, Public Administration, Nonprofit Management. Must be able to communicate effectively in English – both in writing and orally. Must not have been convicted of any disqualifying felonies and must not have been substantiated for abuse or neglect in the state of Missouri, as recorded by the Department of Mental Health’s Employee Disqualification List. Must have reliable personal vehicle for transporting clients. Must demonstrate safe practices in all areas and exemplify positive professional standards. Must obtain a Class E driver’s license during new hire orientation and carry minimum coverage applicable by law for auto insurance. Must receive Seasonal Flu Vaccination. Equal Opportunity Employer #J-18808-Ljbffr Life Unlimited, Inc