Employment Specialist

Position duration is dependent upon continued approval of funding to the Russell County School District from the Community Based Work Transition Program

190 work days per year/7 hrs per day

Basic Purpose of the Position:

Monitor and implement a special education program focusing on successful transition into the workforce; assist in establishing a class environment favorable to learning and personal growth; establish effective rapport with students; to motivate students to develop skills leading to employment;  model and promote attitudes and knowledge needed to provide a good foundation for education and entry into the workforce  in accordance with each student’s ability; establish a good relationships with parents and with other staff members; and to encourage participation into the program.

Qualifications required for employment:

• Hold a minimum of a high school diploma or G.E.D. Certification
• Passing score on the para educator exam or provide a transcript of 48 College hours
• Meet the requirements of KRS 17.164 for Criminal Record Check and five year driving check as specified by Kentucky state law
• Meet health requirements to perform all necessary functions of the position
• Demonstrate effective written and verbal communication skills
• Hold or obtain a valid Kentucky Commercial Class B (CDL) driver’s license, including passenger endorsement.
• Be available and willing to work a flexible work schedule
• Successful completion of all training and tests required by state and local boards, and those required by the CBWTP Grant Coordinator

Reports to:

Director of Special Education/Russell County High School Principal(s)

Job Goal:

To conduct job development and provide hands-on vocational training for eligible exceptional students; and to transport students as required; and complete all required paperwork to obtain maximum grant funding.

Critical Skills/Expertise Required Knowledge of:

• Basic instructional methods and techniques
• Students with special needs, multi-cultural and multi-ethnic backgrounds
• Basic subjects taught in Russell County School District schools
• Correct English usage, grammar, spelling, punctuation, and vocabulary
• Classroom procedures and appropriate student conduct
• Policies and objective of assigned program and activities
• Requirements to meet criteria for continued grant allocation to Russell County School District

Essential Job Functions

Ability to:

• Promote and develop private and public employment opportunities for students and graduates
• Prepare and present logical, clear, and well written reports
• Conduct placement and follow-up surveys
• Encourage and recruit prospective employers of students participating in the program
• Prepare and maintain records supportive of program goals
• Relate effectively with employers, teachers, administrators, and students
• Compile and verify data to include in required reports
• Submit reports in a timely manner required for reimbursement to the Russell County School District
• Promote vocational training programs to public and private sector employers, community and professional groups and the general public
• Establish contact with prospective employers to promote job opportunities for students and graduates
• Assist employers in identifying jobs that can be occupied effectively by vocational training participants
• Assist employers in adjusting the jobs for student appropriateness; visit student training sites regularly
• Assist participating students with the development of job plans related to assessment and training opportunities
• Consult with local/area businesses for placement possibilities
• Analyze skills needed to complete job responsibilities; assists instructors in teaching these skills to students
• Provide small group training in social and employability skills necessary for obtaining employment and consideration for advancement
• Reviews and monitors program as assigned at specific sites; conducts classroom observations, diagnose problems and provide for proper resolution
• Inform and follow-up with Russell County School District program contact person for consultation and assessment of program effectiveness
• Represent the school Russell County School District by modeling a clean appearance, meeting timelines, and speaking positively about the program and Russell County School District, and practicing considerate professional cell phone etiquette
• Perform other related jobs as assigned by supervisor as this list is not an exhaustive list of duties performed for this position.

Terms of Employment:

1. Number of days in accordance with contract
2. Salary commensurate with approved classified personnel salary

Evaluation:

Performance of this job will be evaluated in accordance with the Russell County School Board Policy on evaluation of classified personnel.  Evaluation will be conducted by Superintendent or Designee.