Employment Specialist-SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY

Company Overview

The Arc Greater Hudson Valley is a not-for-profit agency dedicated to providing support and services to over 1,800 people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities and to their families in Sullivan, Orange and Dutchess Counties, New York. A chapter of The Arc New York, our main offices are located at 162 East Broadway in Monticello, NY.

Our agency offers a broad range of services including Residential Services, Clinical Services, Day Services, Family Support Services, Guardianship Services, Employment Services, Recreation and more. Our mission is to support people with unique abilities to live as valued and contributing members of the community.

Employment Specialist – Job Description

Position Summary
The Employment Specialist/Job Coach provides individualized support to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to help them obtain, maintain, and succeed in competitive community employment. This role partners closely with individuals, employers, and community agencies to promote independence, dignity, and inclusive workforce participation.

Monday through Friday but will vary based on individual needs and it will be one evening per week but will be prescheduled.

Key Responsibilities

• Assess individuals’ strengths, interests, skills, and support needs to create personalized employment plans.
• Assist individuals with job searches, applications, résumés, interviews, and workplace readiness.
• Develop and maintain relationships with local employers to identify suitable job opportunities.
• Advocate for inclusive hiring practices and create employer partnerships that support long-term success.
• Match candidates to positions that align with their goals and abilities.

On-the-Job Coaching & Support

• Provide on-site job coaching before, during, and after placement to ensure skill development, independence, and workplace adjustment.
• Teach job tasks using evidence-based training strategies, including task analysis, and prompting
• Monitor individual progress, address challenges, and support effective communication between employees and employers.
• Ensure natural supports are identified and fostered within the workplace. Assist individuals with job searches, applications, résumés, interviews, and workplace readiness.
• Develop and maintain relationships with local employers to identify suitable job opportunities

Offer guidance in soft skills such as time management, social interactions, problem-solving, and workplace etiquette

Case Management & Documentation

• Maintain accurate case notes, progress reports, and documentation in compliance with funding and regulatory requirements.
• Track employment outcomes, attendance, employer feedback, and service hours.
• Participate in individual service plan (ISP) meetings and contribute to goal-setting and progress evaluations.

Qualifications

• High school diploma required;
• Experience working with individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities strongly preferred.
• Strong communication, problem-solving, organizational, and advocacy skills.
• Ability to work independently in community settings and manage a flexible schedule.
• Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and ability to pass required background checks.
• Completed mandatory OPWDD 24 hour training within a year, and 6 hours annually afterwards.

Core Competencies

• Person-centered approach
• Patience and empathy
• Professionalism and accountability
• Cultural competence
• Collaboration and relationship-building
• Ability to coach and motivate individuals toward goals
• Understanding of ADA, supported employment, and workplace accommodations

ALL123

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $19.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• On-the-job training
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• Prior experience working directly with persons with developmental disabilities preferred

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Required)

License/Certification:

• Driver's License for at least one year (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $19