Supported Employment Specialist

General Purpose:

The Employment Specialist is expected to support applicants in the field of developmental disabilities or related disorders in all areas of Vocational development as identified in the Support Plan and Individual Plan of Supported Employment. The Supported Employment Specialist is responsible for coordinating comprehensive vocational services to the clientele in order to assist in attaining career goals that can lead to self-sufficiency. The Supported Employment Specialist is expected to represent Babcock Center appropriately and conduct himself/herself in a professional manner when interacting with people receiving services, their families, employers, staff from other agencies and the general public.

Job Duties:

• Focuses on learning the vocational desires, goals and needs of each applicant supported and ensure that each applicant is a full participant in their own employment planning process.
• Develops and maintains a thorough understanding of Positive Behavior Supports.
• Provides and documents individualized supports to ensure desired vocational outcomes for each applicant served.
• Assists client with identifying their own unique abilities, vocational potential and develop existing skills to gain and maintain meaningful employment.
• Provide specific job instruction and supports including the use of adaptive technology and hands on coaching as necessary.
• Provide pre-employment, on the job training, job coaching, retention services and follow along supports per each client's individual needs and desires.
• Provide supervision and support to the client according to their individual career plan and consistent with employer practices.
• Facilitates positive interaction and communication between the applicant, employers, co-workers, family members and personnel from other agencies.
• Focuses on assisting each applicant in successful competitive employment outcomes.
• Provides all applicants with opportunities and choice to participate in competitive employment situations.
• Advises family members or home providers of the need to report earned income to Social Security officials.
• Coordinates work schedules and addresses transportation needs for applicants.
• Coordinates job interviews and starting dates of employment.
• Assist with employment forms to include: resume, applications, etc. for each applicant served.
• Maintain prescribed records, complete Therap records, DDSN DSAL billing, evaluation data on placements and all other data as outlined.
• Serve as a liaison and community connection with business and industry personnel, stakeholders, teams.
• Participates in strategic planning for the Division.
• Works with various community entities to facilitate job growth and job placements.
• Partners with various agencies for referrals and conducts follow-ups
• Ensures compliance with all Babcock Center policies and procedures.
• Maintains care in the handling and maintenance of contract supplies, materials, and equipment.
• Demonstrated knowledge of the ADA- American Disability Act, Medicaid/Medicare allowable, Social Security Administration and the Ticket to Work program.
• Participates in strategy planning and problems solving in overcoming barriers to employment for the applicant
• Demonstrates knowledge of basic licensing as developed by DDSN.
• Uses resources efficiently.
• Offers suggestions for more efficient use of resources as identified.
• Other duties as assigned.

Working Hours:

The Employment Specialist is expected to work 40 hours a week and must be available to work evening and weekend shifts due to the supports/services that are to be rendered in this position.

Working Conditions:

Typically works in well-lighted and well-ventilated office area. Sits, stands, and walks during workday. May have the occasion or need to work outdoors, operate heavy machinery and tools, or other various working conditions. Subject to working relationships with all employees of Babcock Center and other program staff.

Supervision:

The direct supervisor for the Employment Supervisor is the Director of Supported Employment.

Typical Physical Demands:

Sitting, standing, bending, stooping, reaching, frequent lifting, and manual dexterity sufficient to operate standard office machines. Must be able to lift 50 pounds. Must have normal range of hearing and vision.

Typical Mental Demands:

Must be able to deal with stress associated with fast-paced work environment and multi-tasking. Formulate decisions and act upon them. Adapt to changing work situations. Grasp and apply new ideas. Communication with various personalities at all levels.

Hazards/Potential Hazards:

Cleaning chemicals, ergonomic hazards: static postures, repetitive motion, trip hazards such as file drawers and electrical wires video display terminals.

I have read and understand this job description and I am aware of the qualifications for the position and the working conditions. I believe I am capable of meeting the demands of this position.

Qualifications:

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Must have 1-2 years of experience in a related field.
• Must possess reliable transportation.
• Attention to detail and accurate and timely completion of duties.
• Excellent interpersonal skills including independent problem solving, and conflict resolution skills
• Effective communication skills.
• Maintain a high level of confidentiality.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds.
• Valid 3 year driving record.