Employment Specialist

Job Title

This is a full-time hourly position. The incumbent is responsible for providing positive supports and supervision to persons with developmental disabilities with the goal of helping them achieve their highest level of independence and quality of life.

Schedule: WCDC office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 am – 4 pm. Core hours will vary according to the needs of each client. Flexibility in schedule is required to accommodate employer, employee, training needs, and completion of required documentation.

Rate of Pay: $21.00 per hour

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Complies with all WCDC's policies and procedures.
• Assists individuals with the life cycle of employment, locating work opportunities, applying for jobs, writing resumes, preparing for an interview, interviewing, follow-up, training for jobs, maintaining jobs, etc.
• Develop a curriculum for individuals involved in Employment Services.
• Provides coaching, training, and other necessary supports to individuals in their work setting.
• Serves as the liaison between the individual(s) and their employer works cooperatively to develop strategies to allow individuals to achieve their highest level of independence and individualizes programs to provide for the needs of each person served.
• Works cooperatively with funding agencies to complete referrals, billing, progress reports, job procurement, on the site job training.
• Always treats individuals with dignity and respect and acts in a professional manner consistent with WCDC's mission and vision.
• Ensures timely and safe transportation of individuals to and from work, when needed.
• Completes all vehicle logs, safety checks, maintenance, and certifications as directed by the Director of Fleet & Facilities and transportation policies and procedures.
• Maintains formal and informal communications with the immediate supervisor keeping him/her aware of activities and concerns within the program and follows the chain of command.
• Works cooperatively and professionally with other staff members, is motivated and takes initiative, proposes new ideas and different ways of doing things and is receptive to feedback.
• Maintains a safe, clean, and secure environment for the clients at all times.
• Provides services as outlined in each client's IPE and/or PCP, including but not limited to care plans, behavior plans, choking protocols, etc.
• Remains sensitive to each individual's needs and enables them to make informed choices. Is creative and innovative in your approach to each individual.
• Interacts with consulting staff, family, and the community positively. Supports WCDC's position during interactions with others.
• Develop and maintain a positive relationship with employers who support our program while reaching out to others who may have an interest in hiring our individuals.
• Support individuals in job readiness training to remove barriers and resolve issues for upward mobility and advancement opportunities with the employer.
• Provide support in directing individuals to obtain assistance with benefits counseling to enhance the benefits from the employer and reporting of wages and earnings with the Social Security Administration and participation in their programs.
• Complete tracking and monitoring reports, billing reports, or any other necessary forms according to regulations and agency deadlines.
• Complete all agency and DDA trainings before working with a consumer, maintain current certification in CPR and First Aid.
• Obtain and maintain an active Certified Employment Services Professional (CESP) certification.

Qualifications

Must be at least 21 years old, with a valid driver's license, and approved to transport clients. License may not be Provisionals and have a driving record that reflects responsibility and maturity. Maintain valid Driver's License with good driving record and show proof of Auto Insurance Coverage. Pass a Criminal Background Check and Drug Test.

Education/Experience

Degree in Human Services or related field or commensurate experience required. Experience working with individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities a must. Certified Employment Services Professional (CESP) preferred.

Other Competencies

Strong interpersonal skills both in the office and in the community. Interest in assisting individuals participating in WCDC's Employment Program with achieving their personal vocational outcomes by providing Person-Centered Supports. Ability to send and receive verbal and written communication (including narrative report writing) using the English language, basic math skills, and basic computer skills. Show willingness and ability to successfully complete and apply trainings in your position. Demonstrate your ability to be an effective team member always looking for what is best for the consumer according to their individual choice. Demonstrate the ability to capture progress and keep documentation current for program reviews. Be of good moral character and show a willingness to support ongoing character building in those you support.

Benefits

401(k), 401(k) matching, Dental, Health, Life and Vision insurance, Paid time off, Referral program, and more.

WCDC is an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants equally without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability status.