Lead, Employment Consultant

Best Buddies International is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, inclusive living, and family support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).Best Buddies is the largest organization dedicated to ending the social, physical and economic isolation of the 200 million people worldwide with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Our programs empower people with IDD to form meaningful friendships with their peers, secure jobs, improve communication and advocacy skills, and live independently, while also offering support for their families

The primary responsibility of the Lead, Employment Consultant is to function as a coach, mentor, and vocational support professional working one-to-one with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This includes supporting participants through the job seeking process, onboarding and ongoing training while managing essential documentation, compliance requirements, and employer relationships to foster successful and sustainable employment. The Lead, Employment Consultant empowers individuals to achieve meaningful employment by providing personalized guidance, skill development, and advocacy.

This position supports individuals with IDD as they navigate barriers, maximize their potential, and secure opportunities that enhance their independence and overall quality of life. In addition, the Lead, Employment Consultant steers expansion plans for their office's Jobs program- identifying new funding opportunities, serving as the main point of contact for funding agencies, national employer partners (if applicable), and building out long-term plans for growth and staffing.

Bachelor's degree and minimum 2 years of professional experience, OR minimum 5 years relevant experience, Best Buddies program experience a plus Ability to engage comfortably with individuals with IDD, addressing sensitive topics with empathy and professionalism

Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to engage, support, balance and steward multiple relationships while guiding individuals toward success

Basic skills in public speaking, group facilitation, and delivering engaging presentations

Familiarity with Office 365 and a basic understanding of social media platforms

Strong writing ability, attention to detail, and proficiency in project and time management

Capable of working autonomously while also collaborating effectively in a dynamic fast-paced environment

Willingness to travel frequently within the local area and use a personal cell phone for work-related communication

Fundraising events are a core part of the organization's success and require full staff participation and therefore, occasional weekend work may be necessary to support events and other initiatives throughout the year Access to an automobile with applicable insurance or other reliable transportation.

Employment is contingent upon state accreditation and the ability to obtain federal suitability clearance for the Ticket to Work Program

• Utilize a person-centered approach supporting individuals in job searching efforts in industries and opportunities that match their skills and interests, within their communities and based on transportation options available
• Upon job placement, the Lead, Employment Consultant will provide the individual with support during orientation, onboarding and throughout the early stages of training with the goal of fostering an independent work environment and eventually fading support to quarterly contact
• Develop and maintain positive relationships with the individual, guardian when applicable, their families, Vocational Rehabilitation counselors, advocates, and employers
• Identify natural supports within the individual's workplace to provide additional support and ensure the individual is embraced and fully included as a member of the team
• Compassionately encourage and educate individuals, parents and/or guardians of the opportunities and possibilities available to anyone seeking a career, as well as the benefit to programs such as Ticket to Work
• Guides participants, guardians and family members in navigating Social Security…