Employment Support Specialist; ESS

Mission and Vision

To provide quality individualized services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in dynamic and innovative environments. The Opportunity Tree is committed to promoting the development of a society that fully embraces individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through inclusion, advocacy, and opportunities.

The Opportunity Tree (TOT) is seeking a full‑time Employment Support Specialist (ESS) to provide employment services to adult Members with developmental and other disabilities through various state contracts. The successful candidate is passionate and flexible, meeting the needs of TOT Members. The ESS position may be scheduled on an adjusted 5‑day schedule (Sunday through Saturday) based on Members' training or work schedule.

ESS will work at TOT Avondale or Phoenix campuses to develop, implement, and deliver supported employment services and provide general information, outreach, and education about the supported employment services while fulfilling TOT's mission, vision, and values. Employment services include Transition to Employment, Pre‑Employment Transition Services (PreETS), Career Preparation Readiness, Job Development & Retention, Individual Supported Employment, and Employment Supports. An ESS's essential service is to assist individuals to obtain and maintain competitive integrated employment.

• Health Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Life Insurance
• 401(k)
• Paid Time Off
• Referral Program

$1,000 hiring bonus for full‑time new hires, paid after 12 full pay periods (approximately six months); other incentives for referring full or part‑time employees who are hired to work at The Opportunity Tree.

The Opportunity Tree (TOT) is seeking a full‑time Employment Support Specialist (ESS) to provide employment services to adult members with developmental and other disabilities through various state contracts. The successful candidate is passionate, flexible, and meets the needs of TOT members. The ESS position may be scheduled on an adjusted five‑day schedule (Sunday through Saturday) based on members' training or work schedule.

• Collaborate with diverse members, respecting individual identities, to secure inclusive community job placements.
• Provide equitable support tailored to each member’s unique abilities and employment aspirations.
• Develop positive work‑related skills and habits tailored to individual employment needs.
• Conduct assessments to identify member strengths and capabilities.
• Develop and implement individualized training agreements in line with members' goals.
• Maintain records with a focus on equitable service delivery and outcomes.
• Build employer relationships, advocating for inclusive hiring practices and diverse workplaces to create job matches aligning with members' goals and strengths.
• Engage with community networks, including schools, agencies, and families.
• Deliver services that are culturally relevant, accessible, and respectful of all identities.
• Champion the rights and inclusion of members in the workforce, focusing on creating accessible and equitable competitive integrated employment opportunities.
• Adhere to and adjust to the required work schedule based on members' availability.

• Minimum age of 18 years with a GED/high school diploma.
• Valid driver's license and proof of insurance.
• Ability to obtain an IVP Level 1 Fingerprint Clearance Card.
• At least one year of paid experience working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

• Experience in mentoring, teaching, or coaching roles, demonstrating a capacity for leadership and skill development in others.
• Experience supporting individuals to obtain and maintain competitive integrated employment.
• Experience navigating state agencies and providing state‑funded services.
• Comprehensive training will be provided in disability awareness, employment strategies for individuals with disabilities, and work readiness skills. This training will enhance understanding of various disabilities and develop skills to support successful, long‑term employment outcomes for our members.

• Lift, carry, or transfer minimum of 40 pounds.
• Bend, kneel, and stoop.
• Push or pull wheelchairs.
• Reach overhead.
• Walk, sit, or stand for extended periods.
• Finger, hand, or wrist dexterity to eye level.
• This position is considered a “safety sensitive” position.