Employment Specialist Trainee – SPARK CT

Opportunities are available in 3 locations:

Greater Waterbury, Greater Danbury, Greater Norwalk/Stamford/Bridgeport

$20.50/hour

9 months

At Ability Beyond, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to pursue meaningful work and live a life of their own design. We're looking for compassionate, motivated individuals who want to build a career helping people with disabilities achieve their employment goals.

The Employment Specialist Trainee – SPARK CT is an entry‑level 9 month paid training position designed to prepare you for a career in employment services. Through hands‑on learning, coaching, mentorship, and supervised experience, you'll develop the skills needed to support individuals in finding and maintaining meaningful employment in their communities.

• Supporting individuals in developing and achieving employment goals
• Job development, employer outreach, and community networking
• Job coaching and workplace support strategies
• Case management, service coordination, and documentation
• Building relationships with employers, families, funding sources, and community partners
• Utilizing person‑centered, trauma‑informed, and inclusive practices
• Completing service documentation and learning agency systems, including Salesforce and Evolv
• Participating in SPARK CT training, team meetings, and ongoing professional development

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a related field preferred
• Interest in supporting individuals with disabilities and promoting community inclusion
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills
• Ability to learn new technology and documentation systems
• Valid driver's license, vehicle registration, and automobile insurance
• Ability to travel throughout assigned service areas and transport individuals as needed
• Successful completion of required background checks

• Hands‑on experience in employment and human services
• Coaching and mentorship from experienced professionals
• Career development and advancement opportunities
• Training in supported employment, vocational rehabilitation, and person‑centered practices
• Preparation for the Certified Employment Support Professional (CESP) credential and advancement into an Employment Specialist role

At Ability Beyond, you'll do more than build a career—you'll help people discover their strengths, achieve their goals, and create lives filled with opportunity and purpose.

If you're passionate about helping others succeed and ready to start a rewarding career, we'd love to hear from you.