Vocational Rehab & Specialist

JOB SUMMARY

The

Job Type

Full-time

Description

JOB SUMMARY

The Workforce Development Specialist I (WDSI) plays a vital role on the Pathways to Success Project team, providing vocational rehabilitation services through the Supported Employment - Individual Placement Model. Core responsibilities for this position include vocational assessments, teaching job readiness skills, job development/placement assistance, job coaching, development of Work Based Learning Experiences (WBLE), and extended follow-along services for adults. Additionally, the WDSI plays an integral role in providing Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) to high school juniors and seniors.

A successful WDSI develops relationships with local businesses, advocates with potential employers to facilitate job matches, engages in outreach events, communicates professionally in oral and written form, conducts compelling presentations, and manages time effectively.



Job Responsibilities

The Workforce Development Specialist I will be responsible for the following core job duties:

• Successfully develop strategic partnerships with businesses and employment stakeholders that advance employment opportunities for PWD across the service region.
• Assist PWD with developing pre-employment skills, such as resume writing, application completion, appropriate dress and hygiene, interview skills, and workplace etiquette.
• Collaborate with Lighthouse team members to implement the vocational rehabilitation component of the PTS Disability Innovation Fund demonstration project to drive program success and optimize positive outcomes for participants. Support the development of work-based learning experiences (WBLEs) for participants within the Lighthouse and in businesses across the service region.
• Provide direct services through State Vocational Rehab and PTS programs, which include conducting evaluations, supporting Individualized Plans for Employment, job developing, job readiness skills training, job coaching, offering ongoing job support, developing WBLE, and delivering Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS).
• Manage a robust caseload of participants who are current job seekers with disabilities. Meet required departmental standards for successful client placements.
• Collaborate with employers to create unique job opportunities specific to client goals, interests, and abilities.
• Engage with potential employers to solicit interest in strong job candidates. Participate in outreach and recruitment activities by coordinating and attending job fairs and related activities.
• Document all job development and participant engagement activities. Track caseload movement weekly by procedure, recording all activities in Salesforce and on state forms. Documentation must be clear, concise, and factual, while maintaining a tone that is professional and unbiased.
• Administer Pre-ETS to teens according to Lighthouse Louisiana’s strategic goals in compliance with Louisiana Rehabilitation Services requirements.
• Continuously strive to enhance knowledge and skills that support the success of PTS programs and participant outcomes.
• Collaborate with the Workforce Development Manager to create and implement training programs that advance the field for vocational rehabilitation professionals.
• Participate in education and advocacy events to promote inclusion for PWD. Engage with the community at outreach events, representing the Lighthouse with superior polish and professionalism.
• Foster a team environment with effective communication and a coordinated approach to providing services. Follow all Lighthouse policies and standard operating procedures.
• Maintain confidentiality of information and material at the highest standards.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Education:
  
  Bachelor’s degree in education, social services, vocational rehabilitation, or related field required. Certified Employment Support Professional (CESP) credential required or willingness to attain CESP certification within one year of employment.
• Special Knowledge/
  
  Skills:
  
  Knowledge of disability and factors that affect successful employment. Ability to manage a caseload and flex time…