Employment Specialist - Part-Time

DescriptionThe Employment Specialist works collaboratively with the Employment Services Supervisor to help adults with autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders learn, accommodate, and perform their work duties. The Employment Specialist will help job seekers develop both specific job tasks and interpersonal skills that are necessary in the workplace.Duties And ResponsibilitiesSetup and PlanningProvides employment opportunities to job seekersCoordinates schedules and transportation for the individuals servedAssesses the individual’s skills, abilities, and requirements of specific employment situations for the purpose of matching each individual to a job of interesAssists job seekers with the application and interview process and coordinates arrangements for job placementDevelops employment readiness skills with the job seekerDaily InstructionSupports individuals in competitive employment using systematic instructional techniques, compensatory strategies, job adaptation/modification, and positive reinforcement strategiesMonitors and evaluates work performance by collecting skill acquisition and production data Solicits feedback from job seekers, employers, and coworkers and provides additional training or intervention as needed. Collaborates with the employer and coworkers to develop natural supports in the work environment to increase the individual’s independence Implements behavior support plans as neededSafely transports individuals in the community as neededAssists with evening and weekend shifts or events as needed (e.g., employment shifts, SPARK Night, etc.)Documentation and ReportingWrites detailed progress notes as required and submits requests for authorizations on time Prepares written reports in the appropriate format for the referral source on a monthly, quarterly, or as-needed basis in a timely mannerAssists supervisor in developing individual service plan (ISP) goals for each client and ensures that each individual is actively engaged in making progress towards ISP outcomesMaintains required documentation for each clientParticipates in annual planning meetings with clients, caregivers and support coordinatorsIndividual, Guardian, and Stakeholder CommunicationRegularly communicates with all individuals, guardians, and stakeholders to foster positive relationships and high satisfaction with program communication. Responds to all individual, guardian, and stakeholder communications in a timely manner (e.g. return phone calls, respond to emails) Communicates with employers at local businesses to develop employment opportunities for specific individualsCollaborates with Work Incentives Specialist Advocate (WISA) on benefit coordination as neededParticipates in team meetings on a regular basisProfessionalism Arrives on time for workShows flexibility to changeHas a positive attitude towards adult participants and staffAdheres to safety protocolsMakes prudent use of General Leave timeAssists with special projects and assignments as requestedTakes on additional responsibilities when work is completeAssists in keeping common spaces clean and organizedAccepts feedback and constructive criticismAdheres to the mission, vision, and values of VIAEmerging ResponsibilitiesEmployment Specialists (Level 1 and 2) may assume the following responsibilities as assigned by the Employment Services Supervisor as part of their professional development:Assists with intakesObserves and learns to provide other supported employment services such as situational assessments, job-site training, and follow-alongParticipates in annual planning meetings, SIS assessments, DARS meetingsPosition Type This is a part-time position. This position involves working with adult learners who may exhibit disruptive and/or challenging behavior.RequirementsQualifications include:High school diploma or equivalency requiredBachelor’s degree preferred Experience working with individuals with autism and other developmental disorders or providing employment services is preferredMust be willing to work a flexible schedule including evening and weekends for Employment ServicesValid driver’s license requiredAccess to approved personal vehicle for transporting individuals to and from employment as needed