Employment Coach​/Employment Specialist

The Employment Coach/Specialist is responsible for supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in achieving meaningful, competitive, and integrated employment. This role involves providing individualized career planning, job development, job placement, and ongoing coaching in accordance with each individual’s Person-Centered Plan (PCP) and Maryland DDA Employment Services standards. The Employment Coach/Specialist works closely with employers, families, and interdisciplinary teams to ensure successful job matches, workplace inclusion, and long‑term job retention while promoting the organization’s mission of empowerment, independence, and inclusion.

• Conduct person-centered vocational assessments to identify individual strengths, skills, and employment interests.
• Collaborate with individuals, families, and teams to develop and implement Employment Discovery and Customization plans.
• Research, identify, and develop competitive job opportunities that align with each individual’s career goals.
• Build and maintain relationships with local employers and community partners to expand inclusive employment opportunities.
• Assist individuals with job applications, interview preparation, and job placement.

The Employment Coach/Specialist is responsible for supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in achieving meaningful, competitive, and integrated employment. This role involves providing individualized career planning, job development, job placement, and ongoing coaching in accordance with each individual’s Person-Centered Plan (PCP) and Maryland DDA Employment Services standards. The Employment Coach/Specialist works closely with employers, families, and interdisciplinary teams to ensure successful job matches, workplace inclusion, and long‑term job retention while promoting the organization’s mission of empowerment, independence, and inclusion.

• Conduct person-centered vocational assessments to identify individual strengths, skills, and employment interests.
• Collaborate with individuals, families, and teams to develop and implement Employment Discovery and Customization plans.
• Research, identify, and develop competitive job opportunities that align with each individual’s career goals.
• Build and maintain relationships with local employers and community partners to expand inclusive employment opportunities.
• Assist individuals with job applications, interview preparation, and job placement.

• Provide on-the-job coaching to teach workplace expectations, communication, and safety practices.
• Support individuals in developing natural workplace supports and independence.
• Monitor job performance and satisfaction to ensure continued success and progress.
• Coordinate with employers to implement reasonable accommodations when needed.
• Provide follow-up support and career advancement guidance to promote long‑term retention.

• Complete timely, accurate documentation in accordance with DDA and COMAR 10.22 requirements.
• Maintain records in iCareManager (or other agency-approved systems) reflecting goals, progress, and outcomes.
• Ensure service delivery aligns with each participant’s authorized DDA service and PCP outcomes.
• Participate in audits, quality assurance reviews, and compliance monitoring.

• Advocate for the rights and inclusion of individuals in all employment settings.
• Maintain professional communication with employers, coworkers, family members, and interdisciplinary team members.
• Participate in team meetings, Person-Centered Reviews, and community…