Community Job Support Staff (Per Diem)

The Community Job Support Staff provides individualized, one-on-one support to a young adult male with high-functioning autism to promote success in employment, community participation, and independent living. The staff member serves as a job coach, mentor, and advocate by assisting with workplace expectations, communication, organization, problem-solving, and social interactions while fostering independence and self-confidence.

This position requires a patient, dependable, and encouraging individual who understands neurodiversity and is committed to supporting the individual's strengths, goals, and personal growth.

Employment Support

• Provide on-site job coaching and support during scheduled work shifts.
• Assist with learning and completing job duties while encouraging independence.
• Reinforce workplace expectations, including punctuality, organization, time management, and professional behavior.
• Support communication with supervisors and coworkers when needed.
• Help develop strategies for managing workplace stress, transitions, and unexpected changes.
• Promote self-advocacy and problem-solving rather than completing tasks for the individual.

Community Support

• Assist with community-based activities related to employment and independent living.
• Support the development of social and communication skills in community settings.
• Accompany the individual to work and community activities when appropriate.

Independent Living Skills

• Encourage independence with daily routines and responsibilities.
• Assist with planning schedules and work-related responsibilities.
• Support development of executive functioning skills, including organization, prioritization, and task completion.

Documentation and Communication

• Maintain accurate documentation of hours worked, activities completed, and progress toward work related goals.
• Communicate regularly with the family/employer regarding successes, concerns, and recommendations.
• Maintain confidentiality and respect the individual's privacy and dignity.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required. Plus, some college working toward degree in related field
• Experience supporting individuals with autism spectrum disorder or developmental disabilities preferred.
• Experience as a job coach, mentor, and/or direct support professional highly desirable.
• Strong communication, patience, flexibility, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently while maintaining consistent communication.
• Valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and current automobile insurance.
• Ability to pass required background checks, including reimbursable finger print check .

Preferred Skills

• Understanding of autism spectrum disorder and neurodiversity-affirming practices.
• Ability to teach executive functioning, organizational, and time-management skills.
• Calm and supportive approach during periods of anxiety or change.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build trusting relationships.
• Ability to encourage independence while providing appropriate levels of support.

Work Schedule

• Per diem/as-needed position, typically days and an occasional weekend day.
• Flexible hours based on the individual's work schedule and community activities.
• May include mornings, afternoons, and weekends.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to accompany the individual in community and workplace settings.
• May need to walk with client and provide guidance on stairwell cleaning duties.
• Ability to travel between work sites and community locations.

Core Values

The Community Job Support Staff will:

• Treat the individual with dignity, respect, and compassion.
• Promote independence and self-determination.
• Recognize and build upon the individual's strengths and abilities.
• Foster confidence, inclusion, and meaningful participation in the community.
• Maintain professionalism, confidentiality, and ethical standards at all times.

Compensation

Compensation is based on experience, qualifications, and applicable program funding. This is a per diem position with flexible scheduling based on the individual's needs.

Pay: $20.00 - $26.00 per hour

Education:

• Associate (Preferred)

Experience:

• Job Coach: 1 year (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• Springfield, MA 01105 (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $20 - $26