Pre- Transition Services; Pre-ETS) Employment Specialist

Support Independence, Build Community, and Make a Difference Every Day

At Full Life, we're dedicated to making a real difference in the lives of people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD). For over 20 years, we've provided services that promote independence, inclusion, and personal growth. Based in Hilo and Kona, we pride ourselves on creating a warm, supportive community where every individual is empowered to thrive.

Full Life is seeking a Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) Employment Specialist to support high school students with disabilities as they explore careers, develop workplace skills, build confidence, and prepare for life after high school.

This is a great opportunity for an educator who enjoys working directly with students but is looking for something different from a traditional classroom role. It is perfect for substitute teachers, educational assistants, special education professionals, or semi-retired educators seeking meaningful, flexible work where you can continue making a difference.

The ideal candidate is compassionate, dependable, patient, and creative, with the ability to adapt instruction to different learning styles and abilities. You should enjoy helping young people discover what they're capable of and supporting them through their transition journey.

As a Pre-ETS Employment Specialist, you will work both individually and in groups with students to help them discover their strengths, interests, and employment goals. You'll combine classroom-style instruction with hands‑on learning and real-world community experiences.

• Help students identify career possibilities.
• Support the learning and application of workplace readiness, self‑advocacy, and communication skills.
• Prepare students for employment through job search skills, resume development, and interview preparation.
• Coordinate and support hands‑on work experiences such as job shadowing, employer visits, volunteer experiences, and internships.
• Build positive relationships with students, families, teachers, schools, employers, and Division of Vocational Rehabilitation staff members.
• Assist with special programs during school breaks, including camps, intensives, and internship programs.
• Connect local businesses and organizations with students for meaningful work‑based learning experiences.

We're looking for compassionate, motivated individuals and provide full training to set you up for success.

Required qualifications:

• 18 years or older
• High School Diploma or GED (or ability to demonstrate key skills)
• CPR & First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)
• Reliable transportation, a valid driver's license, and a clean driving record
• Tuberculosis clearance (Full Life will assist with this)
• At least one year of experience working with students with disabilities, or substantial experience supporting young adults with disabilities.
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience working with students with disabilities
• Valid driver's license, automobile insurance, and reliable transportation.
• Ability to follow and implement individualized support plans, behavior support strategies, classroom/program routines, and safety procedures.
• Strong communication, organization, teamwork, and relationship‑building skills
• ACRE certification required within the first 6 months of hire.

We empower our team to make a real impact while providing recognition, support, and opportunities for professional growth.

• Starting Pay: $27.00
• Training Pay: $18.00/hr
• Health Benefits:
  
  Medical insurance or $200/month stipend
• Paid Time Off:
  Available for full-time employees
• Retirement: 3% 401(k) match after 90 days
• Cell phone stipend + mileage…