Under the supervision of the Director of Programs, the Employment Specialist will assist participants with obtaining and maintaining employment in their community. The Employment Specialist will develop and maintain positive, professional partnerships with local businesses to promote employment opportunities for program participants. This position will provide classroom education, community-based work experiences and evaluations, and job coaching supports to individuals in the work environment.
Establish respect and develop relationships with individuals using a person-centered approach.
Assist participants with job-readiness skills such as resume building, problem-solving, effective
communication, and interviewing skills.
Train participants in soft skills such as work ethic, personal grooming and hygiene, and response to
supervision.
Assist participants with arranging and obtaining appropriate transportation, including traveling training
when appropriate.
Provide retention services that provide ongoing work supports, goal planning, treatment team interaction
and the establishment and cultivation of natural supports at the work site.
Network with local employers & businesses to increase opportunities for employment.
Establish and maintain both verbal and written collaboration with OPWDD.
Maintain OPWDD and agency training requirements.
Maintain necessary records and documentation for each consumer served.
Maintain confidentiality of all work/client related information.
Act in a manner consistent with Central New York Quest’s Mission.
Meet with the Director of Programs or other appointed person for supervision at least once per month.
Other duties as assigned by the Director of Programs.
The Employment Specialist must have excellent verbal and written communication skills and be able to provide detailed and timely documentation. This position requires attendance at team meetings as well as community meetings and trainings. The successful candidate will be able to establish and maintain a work environment that creates positive communication between supervisors, employees and partners in the community.
