Development Specialist - Kent​/Sussex County DE

Make an impact by joining Service Source, a champion for people with disabilities. Explore new opportunities! Service Source is an organization of talented people who drive innovation, embrace change, and strengthen communities.

The Employment Development Specialist (EDS) plays a critical role in a multi-year grant funded program designed to transition disconnected youth and adults with disabilities into competitive, integrated employment. The EDS will be responsible for developing community employment opportunities and providing community-based job development, as well as supporting advancement opportunities for people with disabilities. This grant position is expected to end in early 2029.

• Conductakes and assessments with individuals to establish employment goals and develop person-centered employment plans. Collaborate closely with Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors and other community entities that refer individuals to the program.
• Provide job development services, including connecting individuals to training and educational resources, to help them secure employment that aligns with their career interests, strengths, and support needs.
• Provide post-employment services, including job coaching, follow-up support, and travel training, to ensure retention, job satisfaction, and career growth.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with businesses, community agencies, internal departments, and external vendors.
• Accurately complete and submit monthly billing reports, participant records, case notes, and other documentation in a timely manner, ensuring compliance with the grant's expectations.

• Conduct task and job-site analyses at selected locations to ensure appropriate job matches for individuals.
• Conduct employer outreach, provide consultation, guidance, and disability awareness training to employers and business representatives as needed.
• Coordinate and participate in interdisciplinary team meetings related to an individual's Employment Support Plan; prepare annual individual support plans.
• Attend all grant-related trainings and meetings as assigned, including those for the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program.
• Collaborate with the case manager and youth transition specialist, as needed, to ensure comprehensive support for the entire family and facilitate cross-collaboration.
• Regularly meet with the Project Director, Project Evaluator, and key team members, including case managers, youth transition specialists, and employment development specialists Service Source and affiliated organizations, to ensure alignment and progress toward grant objectives.
• Actively seek opportunities to enhance knowledge of systems supporting TANF recipients and disconnected youth, including the barriers they face. Foster collaboration through participation in community meetings, professional networks, and relevant trainings, enabling effective referrals and comprehensive care for individuals and families.
• Perform other responsibilities as assigned.

• Associate degree in psychology, Human Services or related field, plus 1 year of related experience working with adults with disabilities or a related population required. Bachelor's degree in psychology, Human Services or related field preferred. In lieu of an associate or bachelor's degree, the candidate must possess a High School Diploma or equivalent (GED) and at least 3 years of experience in Human Services and working with individuals with disabilities.
• A minimum of one (1) year of relevant supported employment, job development, job coaching, and/or vocational support experience required.
• Experience developing partnerships with employers and/or postsecondary educational institutions preferred.
• Must be available and willing to travel to multiple locations throughout the state or affiliate coverage area, sometimes with little notice required.
• Must be available and willing to work flexible hours, including weekends, evenings, and holidays, as needed.
• Experience working with the TANF population is preferred.
• Marketing or sales skills preferred.
• Case management and/or documentation knowledge preferred.
• Fluency in a second language (Spanish, ASL) preferred.
• Annual criminal background checks, child abuse clearances, and other required screenings in compliance with Service Source, state, and funding agency regulations.
• Valid state driver's license (per state law) and/or access to reliable transportation for work-related travel required. Eligible drivers must maintain a good motor vehicle record (MVR).

• Ability to relate well to people at all levels of an organization.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Detail-oriented and able to carry out work with the highest levels of accuracy.
• A desire to achieve and exceed monthly expectations.
• Goal oriented and independently motivated.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office skills, and the ability…