Career Specialist
SCHEDULE: Full Time;
M-F (schedule may vary based on needs and schedule of participant/program, may include evening hours and the occasional weekend day)
POSITION SUMMARY:The career specialist is responsible for facilitating the employment process by identifying job opportunities, matching candidates with suitable positions, and providing support to both job seekers and employers throughout the hiring process and employment. This role requires excellent communication skills, a deep understanding of job market trends, and the ability to build strong relationships with both job seekers and employers. Career Specialists are responsible for providing assessment, coordination, advocacy and support needed to maintain the internship or employment of the individual. The Career Specialist also documents formal reports including evaluation and assessment to facilitate and complete person-centered career planning for individuals in services. In addition, they initiate partnerships directly with local businesses and indirectly through civic and professional organizations. Career Specialists are required to perform all duties in accordance with State of Rhode Island regulations and JLMC’s policies and procedures.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Training
∙ Completes and maintains all required State mandated trainings such as, Universal Precautions, competency assessment test, CPR / First Aid, Signs & Symptoms of Illness & Injury and Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities, and Hospitals (BHDDH) CORE trainings within 90 days of employment;
∙ Attends meetings and training sessions as required by ORS, School contract, BHDDH and JLMC;
∙ Completes annual trainings related to Participants’ IP, IEP, IPE, BP and related plans;
∙ Achieve an ACRE or CESP certification within 6 month-1 year of hire
∙Complete PCP certification
Willingness to complete others training requested by director
Daily Programing
∙ Provides transportation to and from job sites;
· Key Responsibilities:
● Job Market Analysis: Conduct research to identify current job market trends, including in-demand industries, job vacancies, and skill requirements.
● Candidate Outreach: Reach out to job seekers, to assess their skills, qualifications, and employment goals.
● Job Matching: Match job seekers with suitable employment opportunities based on their skills, experience, and career objectives.
● Resume and Interview Preparation: Assist job seekers in preparing resumes, cover letters, and interview techniques to enhance their chances of securing employment.
● Employer Engagement: Cultivate and maintain relationships with employers to understand their hiring needs and promote job seekers as potential candidates.
● Job Placement: Facilitate the placement of job seekers into suitable positions by coordinating interviews, negotiating job offers, and providing ongoing support during the onboarding process.
● Follow-Up Support/Job Coaching: Provide post-placement support to both job seekers and employers to ensure successful integration into the workplace and address any issues that may arise.
● Documentation and Reporting: Maintain accurate records of job placements, client interactions, and employer feedback, and generate reports to track program outcomes and effectiveness.
● Coordinating and providing participant transportation throughout the community, focusing on participant independence;
● Plan and implement a job coaching strategy with multiple employees/interns;
● Function as a member of the Career Development team;
● ∙Assist employees/interns with disabilities in learning and excelling in their job functions;
● Submit accurate and timely documentation of all services provided;
● Assists in the implementation of individual plans for individuals and behavioral plan goals;
● Provide participants with direct on the job and in the community assistance in the mastery of required skills;
● Promote and assist participant’s independence throughout the employment/educational process;
● Assist Participants with developing a network of natural supports at work;
● Works all assigned schedules, including but not limited to: arriving and departing on time, requesting time off in advance, and notifying your supervisor of changes to your assigned work schedule;
● Ensures each individuals’ rights are protected;
● Treats individuals with dignity and respect;
Person Centered Planning
· ∙ responsible for creating the Individual Support Plan using Person Centered Thinking and working with the individual and their chosen network of support;
· ∙ Facilitate community mapping to match community supports to the individual;
· ∙ Facilitate pre-planning with the individual, his/her family and other allies;
· ∙ Facilitate the development of personal profiles;
· ∙ Develop personal plans that are community based and provide sufficient detail about how the plan will be implemented;
· ∙ Facilitate a review of the plan at least quarterly
Activities of Daily Living
· ∙ Observes individuals for any changes in behavior or health;
· ∙ Ensures individuals are dressed neatly and appropriately and are groomed at all times;
· ∙ Assists and encourages individuals to care for immediate personal needs and related activities of daily living;
Communication
· ∙ Observes individuals for evidence or signs of injury, evaluates for changes in emotional and physical status;
· ∙ Reports any noted problems to the Director of Career Services immediately and complete a written incident report form;
· ∙ Reports all medical related incidents to the Director of Career Services
· ∙ Acts as a representative for James L. Maher Center in a professional manner to families, service coordinators, State officials, public school systems, community partners, local businesses, and employers;
· ∙ Maintains participant’s confidentiality; follows ADA and HIPPA guidelines;
Teamwork
· ∙ Assists in the preparation for the planning meetings;
· ∙ Treats all individuals and coworkers and with dignity, respect, and fairness;
· ∙ Provides support to other team members as needed;
Documentation
· ∙ Ensures that all documentation is completed accurately and in a timely manner;
· ∙ Clocks in and out before and after every shift and submits Leave Request forms when applicable;
· ∙ Accurately documenting time worked appropriately;
· ∙ Provides updates as required on each case;
· ∙ Meets bi-weekly for supervision with Director of Career Services;
Safety
· ∙ Assists/Monitor individuals when entering and exiting vehicles, as well as entering and exiting the building safely;
· ∙ Reports unsafe conditions, environment, and equipment to the Director of Career Services;
· ∙ Follows safety protocols to foster a safe working environment;
All other duties as assigned
Job Requirements:
Valid Driver’s License
Ability to drive company vehicles.
Access to a personal vehicle for reliable transportation to a variety of job sites.
Access and ability to transport participants in personal vehicles.
Ability to obtain a chauffeur's license.
Ability to lift/push/pull 50lbs.
Ability to work during inclement weather.
A favorable National Criminal Background check along with OIG clearance
One year of experience working with people with disabilities and relevant experience in the field of vocational training.
Individual must possess qualities of independence, reliability, and initiative.
A willingness to work a flexible schedule is required.
5+ years of experience in job coaching, or business liaison work
An Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree is preferred however a combination of education and experience may be accepted.
Proven experience in job development, employment services, or related fields.
Strong understanding of job market trends, recruitment strategies, and employer needs.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with diverse stakeholders.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
Encompasses all Career Specialist positions.
Reports to: Director of Career Services
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $27.50 - $29.50 per hour
Benefits:
- 403(b)
- Dental insurance
- Flexible schedule
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Mileage reimbursement
- Military leave
- On-the-job training
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
License/Certification:
- Driver's License (Required)
Shift availability:
Ability to Commute:
- Middletown, RI 02842 (Preferred)
Ability to Relocate:
- Middletown, RI 02842: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person
