Employment Specialist- Council Bluffs, Iowa

At Hands of Heartland, we believe that people with developmental disabilities are people first. We at Hands of Heartland will always place the person before the program — striving daily to embody the message our name states.

Job Summary

The Employment Specialist is responsible for assisting persons with disabilities to obtain and maintain employment that is consistent with their vocational goals by completing intake into the Supported Employment program; providing pre-vocational and career planning services; coordinating supported employment services; recommending, monitoring, and evaluating the employment; and performing program support and records administration functions.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Receive and review referrals for services from Vocational Rehabilitation to develop a proposal for services based on services requested.
• Complete initial visit with clients to establish trusting, collaborative relationships directed toward the goal of competitive employment in community job settings.
• Evaluate client’s skills, aptitudes, and limitations to determine the appropriate employment support services.
• Conduct job development and job search activities directed toward positions that are individualized to the interests and uniqueness of the people on caseload.
• Conduct employer contact meetings to learn about the needs of the business, describe supports offered by the program and describe client strengths that are relevant to the position.
• Coordinate and provide job placement and training to develop the skills necessary for the client to succeed in the job.
• Provide individualized follow-along supports to monitor the status of the job environment, the employee, and to provide intervention as needed to maintain job placement.  
• Coordinate transportation issues to and from the job site.
• Provide education and support to employers as agreed upon by clients, which may include negotiating job accommodations and follow-along contact with the employer.
• Provide outreach services as necessary to clients when they appear to disengage from the service using a variety of methods.
• Participate in face-to-face meetings with vocational rehabilitation counselors to coordinate services for clients.
• Develop an individual employment (and/or education) plan with clients. Incorporate input from mental health team and family members, with permission.
• Complete administrative duties as necessary. 
• Safeguard and maintain individual records to keep client files complete, confidential, and in order.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Prior experience working with people with developmental disabilities is highly preferred
• Must have a driver's license, reliable transportation, and auto insurance
• Successful completion of background check and abuse registry checks

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities 

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Solid relationship building skills 
• Willing to work flexible hours which may include evenings and weekends 
• Ability to handle a variety of situations and personalities
• Must maintain confidentiality and protect individual rights
• Ability to always project a caring and professional image
• Proven skills in communication, observation, problem solving, and time management

Physical Requirements

• Use verbal and physical intervention to redirect and/or restrain a person who is physically aggressive or self-abusive. Training will be provided. 
• Ability to perform repetitive tasks for extended periods of time to include but not limited to bending, stooping, sitting, and reaching 
• Ability to lift up to 75 pounds as needed

Hours/Shift

• Days, afternoons, and some evenings. Every other weekend, if needed. Flexible scheduling available as hours may vary based on individual's needs.  

Pay

• Starting pay is $20/hour. We pay more for Nebraska CNA license!

Apply today to make a positive impact in the lives of others!