Manager, Transitions Program

and the job listing Expires on March 5, 2026

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.

Job Title: Manager, Transitions Program

Department: State Operations & Programs

Reports to: Deputy Director, Jobs and Transitions

# of direct reports: none

Salary range: $43,000 – $47,000

Position Overview: The Manager, Transitions Program (MTP) will primarily be responsible for directly teaching, counseling, assisting and supporting adolescents/young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to maximize their independence through skill development and pre-vocational training. The MTP will plan and execute Transitions/ Pre-Employment Transition Services directly with students (1:1, small or large groups) in classroom or community-based settings to help adolescents/young adults develop social, vocational, and workplace competency skills.

The MTP will utilize a person-centered approach to provide support and case management services for adolescents/young adults, engaging effectively with their families, employers, and other community providers. Each Manager, Transitions Program (MTP) will oversee volunteer management – program recruitment, intake and processing of all Pre-ETS referral documentation, as well as ongoing data management to reflect program impact. Staff will perform responsibilities professionally, in collaboration with other team members in accordance with Best Buddies core values, policies, practices, program funding and applicable regulatory agency guidelines.

• 2 years experience or employment in job coaching, counseling, or special education; or other related experience working with persons with disabilities– OR–Bachelor’s Degree in a related field such as rehabilitation, counseling, social work, psychology, education, human resources, business administration, or economics from an accredited college or university and one year of experience as described above.
• Preferably 1 year experience as an employment consultant and a proven strong record employer communications and relationship– OR–1 year experience in special education or vocational training.
• Must be adaptable and able to quickly and effectively develop and balance multiple relationships and get results from a variety of people.
• Strong presentation, facilitation, project and time management skills.
• Strong written communicator who pays close attention to detail; demonstrates a strong initiative, drive for results and self-assessment skills as well as the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Must be comfortable engaging with people with IDD, meeting new people and addressing sensitive issues.
• Employment is contingent upon accreditation by governing state agency.
• Sharing an office space with peers (if applicable).
• Travel locally/regionally/nationally.
• Act as staff lead, when assigned, for a program or fundraising event.
• Manage a specific aspect of a local program or fundraising event or business.
• Plan, assist and/or implement awareness campaign(s) for Best Buddies Day and Month, and Disability Employment Awareness Month
• Must be comfortable with frequent local travel, use personal cell phone, and work evenings and weekends as necessary in order to accomplish job responsibilities.
• Access to an automobile with applicable insurance.

include, but are not limited to:

• Coordinate with Friendship Program staff to identify potentially eligible program participants…