Position Description: IDD Career Specialist
Reports To: Executive Director
FLSA Classification: Nonexempt
Created: January 25, 2024
JOB SUMMARY
A supported employment specialist is a professional who assists in finding employment for individuals with a diagnosis of IDD/DD to gain meaningful employment. They typically do this by identifying qualified candidates and inviting them to apply or interview for openings at a particular company. This position will also work closely with job search candidates to help them find jobs that match their skill sets and career goals. This sometimes involves working with people who have special needs, such as people with limited mobility or other disabilities.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Reviewing résumé to identify candidates
• Matching candidates with companies that can help them reach their career goals
• Assists clients in obtaining information about their benefits (e.g., SSI, Medicaid, etc.) and how they will be affected by employment in order for clients to make good decisions about employment opportunities. Refers clients to benefits counseling, as needed. Helps clients report earnings, as needed.
• Assesses clients' vocational functioning on an ongoing basis utilizing background information and work experiences. With the client's permission, provides education and support to family members. Discusses client's preference for disclosure of psychiatric status to employers.
• Conducts job development and job search activities directed toward positions that are individualized to the interests and uniqueness of the people on his/her caseload, following the principles and procedures of IPS supported employment.

QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE/JOB KNOWLEDGE

• High School Diploma
• Prior work in a non-profit atmosphere and experience with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities are preferred.
• A combination of education and experience will be considered.
• Regularly works in a fast-paced environment with multiple task deadlines
• Regularly moves and positions objects weighing up to 50 pounds
• Occasionally exposed to viruses and infectious conditions
• Passion to help individuals with a diagnosis of IDD/DD to gain meaningful employment
• Complete written reports for state and manage flexible schedules
• Communication skills to relate important information to employers, individuals served, and other stakeholders.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Constantly moves about to coordinate work
• Regularly works in a fast-paced environment with multiple task deadlines
• Regularly moves and positions objects weighing up to 50 pounds
• Occasionally exposed to viruses and infectious conditions
• Constantly alert and observant during working hours
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities or medical conditions to perform the essential functions.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities or medical conditions to perform the essential functions.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

• This position does not have direct reports.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Working knowledge of Microsoft Windows and Office applications.
• Working knowledge of Google Workspace.
• Aptitude to learn other software programs as required for this position.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT

• General office environment.