Vocational Support Specialist

JOB PURPOSE 

The Vocational Support Specialist is responsible for preparing, loading, and delivering merchandise to the RISE Racks thrift store. This position supports the mission of RISE Community Services by providing hands-on guidance and instruction to Vocational Center (VC) employees in a supported work environment. Through mentorship and teamwork, this position helps individuals with disabilities develop job skills, work habits, and confidence in a supportive and inclusive setting.

POSITION TYPE

Hourly – Full-Time

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Daily Operations & Task Management

• Load and unload items for delivery to and from RISE Racks store.
• Operate company vehicles safely and efficiently to complete delivery routes.
• Coordinate with RISE Racks staff on inventory needs, delivery schedules, and stock rotation.
• Assist in general warehouse and workshop organization as needed.
• Ensure all tasks meet safety, quality, and productivity expectations.

Staff and Participant Support

• Provide direct, hands-on support to employees with disabilities in completing vocational tasks.
• Assist with preparation for special events, community projects, or training sessions.
• Offer coaching and feedback to build work habits, routines, and skill mastery.
• Promote a respectful, inclusive, and supportive work environment for all team members.
• Participate in meetings, in-service trainings, and program improvement efforts.
• Model appropriate workplace behavior, safety practices, and teamwork.

Training & Development

• Deliver on-the-job training tailored to individual learning styles and abilities.
• Encourage progress toward independence and personal development goals.
• Reinforce appropriate workplace behavior and social skills.

Safety & Compliance

• Monitor work areas for safety hazards and report concerns promptly.
• Ensure adherence to agency policies, DMH standards, and safety procedures.
• Promote proper use of equipment, tools, and materials.

Documentation & Reporting

• Maintain records of deliveries, inventory transfers, and training participation.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors about team performance, incidents, and needs.

Perform other duties as assigned to support vocational program success.

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Valid driver's license required; must be able to obtain a Missouri Class E chauffeur’s license within 14 days of hire.
• Must pass a pre-employment background check and complete agency training.
• Ability to lead, guide, and motivate individuals in a supportive, person-centered manner.
• Strong verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
• Patience, empathy, and understanding of diverse abilities.
• Basic time management and organizational skills.
• Ability to identify challenges and assist in finding appropriate solutions.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, and reaching in both indoor and outdoor work settings.
• Travel required between program sites and community locations.
• Ability to work in various environments including offices, workshops, and outdoor events.
• May require occasional evening or weekend shifts to support program needs.

BENEFITS

• 100% employer paid health insurance.
• Dental and vision insurance.
• Employer paid life insurance and short-term disability insurance.
• Paid holidays, paid vacation, paid sick leave, and paid birthday time off.
• Paid training.
• Matching retirement.
• Tuition Reimbursement.
• Referral bonuses.

ABOUT RISE COMMUNITY SERVICES 

RISE was founded in 1979 with one simple, but lofty goal: to create perfect lives for individuals with disabilities. Our core values of safety, respect, growth, compassion, and teamwork drive everything we do. We hold ourselves accountable to these values as we strive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve. At RISE, we are more than just an organization; we are a family. Together, we work tirelessly to uplift and empower our community, one family at a time.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMMITMENT

RISE is committed to provide equal employment opportunities for all individuals, and we welcome candidates from all backgrounds. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, pregnancy, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, military or uniformed service, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

Salary : $17