Job Coach & Employment Support Specialist

JOB PURPOSE:

To support individuals with IDD in preparing for, obtaining, and maintaining competitive employment in the community, with a commitment to the belief that Employment is the first and appropriate option explored for working age adults regardless of their level of ability

QUALIFICATIONS

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Experience working with people with disabilities preferred
• Valid driver’s license, a good driving record, and a willingness to use one’s own vehicle in the performance of duties
• Satisfactory criminal history check
• Ability to self-direct work
• Able to communicate effectively
• Experience through education or work history that demonstrates reliability/dependability
• Ability to work effectively independently and in a team.
• Ability to make decisions and exercise good judgment.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Job Placement:
  • Assist individuals in managing all needs related to their job (such as dress code, required equipment, planning for on time arrival and transportation planning)
  • Help identify and provide job accommodations, if needed
  • Provide one-on-one job instruction and training utilizing creative teaching methods, encouraging independence
  • Develop workplace tools or strategies that will help the supported employee perform their jobs if/when the job coach fades out to less support
  • Provide assistance with maintaining the health and safety of supported employees, as needed
  • Help the person develop natural supports in the workplace
  • Act as a guide for the workplace culture, identifying if and where the person needs or wants support in managing within their work environment with peers and supervisors

• Employer Development:
  • Represent the individual to employers while maintain confidentiality and the highest level of respect for the person
  • Market the program to local businesses and community organizations which may include presentations to large groups
  • Work with businesses to develop potential worksites and employment opportunities
  • Provide support and information to employers on accommodations and tools for supporting their employees
  • Maintain a strong relationship with employers providing consistent communication and responsiveness to any needs that arise

• Provide ongoing long-term support on the job:
  • Visit the workplace to provide ongoing support for supported employee and to the business management or supervisors
  • Continue supporting any necessary job accommodations
  • Foster ongoing natural supports
  • Foster good relationships with co-workers and supervisors fit to the work environment

• Coordination of Services:
  • Coordinate your own schedule around multiple needs of those supported as well as coordinate the schedules of the supported employees, when necessary
  • Work in various settings depending on the workplace of the individual
  • Work potentially varied hours based on the schedules of individual
  • Use personal vehicle for travel to and from work sites, individuals homes or other places needed to assist person with their job
  • Coordinate with the person, their family, case managers, employers or other relevant parties as needs arise for the person
  • Communicate regularly with funding sources, regarding progress
  • Complete all required documentation
  • Complete and submit all billing for funding sources
  • Follow all agency rules, policies, and regulations
  • Document serious incidents and submit reports to the immediate supervisor
  • Attend staff meetings or planning meetings as requested
  • Attend provided workshops and in-service
  • Assist in any capacity of the program, as requested by the immediate supervisor or director

• Act as an advocate for the person for any unmet support needs by reporting them to the Team Lead/Program Director

COMPETENCIES:

To perform the job successfully, you must demonstrate the following competencies:

Communication…