Placement Specialist

Since 1967, Helen Keller National Center (HKNC) has been committed to improving the lives of individuals who are DeafBlind or have a combined hearing and vision loss. HKNC is dedicated to working with each person to achieve their desired goals towards independence, employment, and quality of life, based on their talents, preferences and aspirations. We currently have an exciting full time career opportunity available to join the HKNC team as a Placement Specialist in our Community Services Program.  The Placement Specialist is responsible for conducting vocational assessments, assisting with job development, facilitating vocationally focused peer groups, and acting as a job coach once employment is obtained for DeafBlind consumers.

Salary: $30.7408/hour. 

35 hour regular work week. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.: 

• Contacts and consults with potential employers regarding the development of substantial jobs for qualified deaf/blind workers in collaboration with the Employment Training Specialists and National Business Relations Specialist.
• Supports consumers with developing a resume, cover letter, and skills needed to apply for jobs both online and in person.
• Obtains employment interviews and assists consumers at the interview, if needed.
• Provides vocational counseling and information to consumers as to work skills and appropriate work behaviors.
• Facilitates and conducts Work Readiness and Soft Skills training classes for small groups of consumers or one on one in conjunction with the Employment Training Specialists and Case Manager. 
• Provides systematic instruction for the trainee to learn the job skills at the work site.
• Makes job modifications when necessary to allow DeafBlind consumers to perform job successfully. 
• Provides training to consumers and employer partners in communication strategies on the job. 
• Assists consumers with self-advocacy regarding their responsibilities and opportunities at the work site including but not limited to identifying and requesting reasonable accommodations.  
• Provides in-service training to potential employers, co-workers, and support service providers in regard to the consumers’ skills, potential, and support needs. Such training can be applied to competitive or supported employment situations.
• Provides follow-up services for the employer and consumer in order to achieve a long-term and successful placement. 
• Works collaboratively with a transdisciplinary team of rehabilitation professionals to ensure that consumers receive all necessary training and supports for success in their vocational and personal goals. 

Required: Extensive local travel throughout Long Island, New York City, and lower Westchester. Meeting all job duties and responsibilities may require use of personal vehicle. 

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE 

• Bachelor’s degree in Special Education, Social Work, or related degree OR minimum one-year experience working with individuals who are DeafBlind, blind, Deaf or multiply disabled.  
• Proficiency in American Sign Language and other methods of communication utilized by individuals who are DeafBlind required.
• Well versed in or willing to learn and utilize remote platforms, including but not limited to Zoom and GoToMeetings, for instruction, consumer meetings, and staff meetings. 

At HKS we strive to provide a healthy work-life balance for our employees.  We offer generous paid time off and comprehensive benefit package including:

• Fully Paid Medical, Dental, and Vision Benefits*
• 4 week's Paid Vacation time annually 
• 2 Paid Personal Days annually 
• 12 paid sick days annually
• 12 Paid Holidays 
• Short Term Disability/ 
• Life Insurance
• 403b Program with Employer Match
• Tuition Assistance 
• Voluntary Ancillary Benefits
• Career Advancement Opportunities 
• Tuition Assistance Program 
• Relocation Assistance 

*Candidate has the option to accept the position No-Frills.  No-frills positions receive an additional 10% premium on the hourly rate of pay, but do not participate in the Union Health Insurance Plan. Individuals seeking a No-frills position must show they have alternative insurance to be eligible.

HKS is committed to providing reasonable workplace accommodation to individuals with illness, injury, or disability to complete the essential functions of their job.