My Path Employment Specialist

POSITION TITLE:  Employment Specialist

REPORTS TO:  Program Coordinator/ Lead Employment Specialist

STATUS:  Non-exempt 

WAGE:  $30-$35 per hour

SCHEDULE: Flexible schedule with Part Time and Full Time options

BENEFITS:  ICHRA Health Insurance option, PTO, Retirement plan with 3% employer match, flexible schedule

JOB SUMMARY: 

The primary purpose of this position is to carry out person-centered services while supporting participants in establishing and attaining their employment related goals. These goals may be directed related to obtaining competitive employment or exploring careers and educational opportunities which will increase the likelihood of identifying and obtaining long term, meaningful employment.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Every effort has been made to make this job description as complete as possible, however in no way is it stated or implied that these are the only duties you are required to perform. Other related duties necessary to meet the needs of the organization may be assigned to you.

  • Engages adult participants of all ages and establishes trusting, collaborative relationships directed toward the goal of competitive employment in community job settings with other workers without disabilities.  

  • Engages youth participants ages 14-21 providing Pre-Employment Transition Services. Establishes trusting and collaborative relationships with both youth and staff at various school districts. 

  • Assesses participants' vocational functioning on an ongoing basis utilizing background information and work experiences. Completes vocational profile/resume for each new participant with information from the participant, interdisciplinary team, and with permission, family members or past employers. Updates the profile with each new job experience. 

  • Provides, with the participant’s permission, education and support to family members about work and gathers input about skills, interests and strengths of the client and ideas for support. 

  • Discusses participant’s preference for disclosure of disability status to employers, including possible costs and benefits and specific information to be disclosed. 

  • Provides assistance with the job search regardless of participant’s preferences regarding disclosure (i.e., support with employer contact when participant chooses not to disclose). 

  • Develops an individualized “My Path Action Plan” with the participant, case manager and other team members (i.e. VRS counselor). Completes all documentation required by employers, Vocational Rehabilitation, and Designated Coordinator.

  • Conducts job development and job search activities directed toward positions that are individualized to the interests and uniqueness of the participant and employment plan.

  • Supports participants making employer contacts about job information and/or job interviews within 30 days of program entry. 

  • Provides individualized follow along supports to assist participants in maintaining employment. Provides frequent face-to-face support (in person or virtually) during the first month of a new job and at least monthly after working steadily and desired by clients. 

  • Provides education and support to employers as agreed upon by participants, which may include negotiating job accommodations and follow along contact with the employer. . 

  • Provides supported education for participants who express interest in education to advance their employment goals. 

  • Conduct various forms of research or enrichment activities to help participants define a career of interest for short and long term employment.

  • Other duties as assigned. 

WORKING CONDITIONS:

  • Sits, stands, walks, bends, lifts and moves during working hours. 

  • Is subject to frequent interruptions and imposed deadlines.

  • Is subject to frequent problem-solving activities. 

  • Attends and participates in a variety of educational programs designed to increase knowledge and expertise in the field. 

  • May be subject to hostile and emotionally upset consumers, staff, family members and the general public. 

  • May be exposed to a variety of conditions, infectious diseases, odors, dust, etc. throughout the working hours. 

  • Regularly travels in the community. Must drive personal vehicle. 

  • Is subject to flexible hours, including split shifts or varied days and times including mornings, afternoons, evenings and weekends depending on employer and client needs. 

  • Work locations may vary according to the needs of the client. Virtual meetings are permitted with the clients prior knowledge and consent. 

  • Is subject to a dress code of appropriate business casual dress. 

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

  • Ability to move intermittently throughout the day. 

  • Must be able to read, write and speak the English language. 

  • Possession of sight/hearing sense or use of prosthetic devices which will enable these senses to function adequately. 

  • Ability to make independent decisions when circumstances warrant such action. 

  • Willingness to take initiative and adapt to circumstances. 

  • Ability to follow daily routines while allowing for flexibility and planning creative alternatives. 

  • Ability to use a computer/laptop and the established software, copy machine, calculator, and keyboard efficiently. 

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

  • High school diploma or GED required. Education and experience equivalent to undergraduate degree in mental health, social services, or business preferred. 

  • At least one year experience working with people with disabilities, experience providing employment services, and knowledge of the work world are preferred.

  • Ability to work as an effective team player is essential. 

  • Meet licensing requirements of the state and/or county. 

  • Approved background and List of Excluded Individuals and Entities checks.