Youth Employment Specialist

BASIC FUNCTION: Work with students and out of school youth ages 14 - 24 through the development of job skills, career pathway planning, and community integrated employment outcomes.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Interact with students with disabilities professionally, respectfully, compassionately on a daily basis through teaching job readiness curriculum, community job sampling and person-centered community integrated employment.

2. Attend individualized education program meetings for students with disabilities, when invited.

3. Work with the local workforce employers to develop work opportunities for students with disabilities, including internships, summer employment and other employment opportunities available throughout the school year, and summer internships.

4. Work with schools, including those carrying out activities to coordinate and ensure the provision of pre-employment transition services.

5. Actively engage in supporting students with work readiness skills including resume writing, internship development and community employment opportunities.

6. Support and assist in coordinating resources needed for individuals' success and develop a concise weekly schedule of services.

7. Document progress and outcomes of each student/referral and ability to differentiate instruction based on the individuals' needs.

8. Participate in student meetings and staffing, as necessary to discuss student progress and success.

9. Perform other assignments as required by their supervisor(s) or management.

10. Attend in-service trainings as requested by supervisor and/or administrative staff. Complete all trainings that are identified as mandatory.

11. Comply with the agency's Ethical Conduct Policy.

12. Perform any additional tasks as directed by supervision.

QUALIFICATIONS/SKILLS:

1. Self-starter with excellent problem-solving skills combined with the proven ability to multi-task, prioritize duties, and manage time effectively.

2. Advocate for service recipients and facilitate program enhancements to benefit the service recipients.

3. Above average to outstanding written, verbal communication and comprehension skills.

4. Willingness and desire to interact and train disabled Service Recipients.

5. Strong advocacy and excellent training and coaching skills

6. Ability and willingness to interact with professionals, individuals served and families.

7. The ability to sit, bend, squat, reach, and stand for several hours at a time.

8. Basic computer literacy required. Must be proficient in data entry and Microsoft Office.

9. The ability to exercise good judgment and use common sense.

10. The ability to remain calm in crisis situations.

11. The ability to approach daily work from a person-centered vantage point.

EDUCATION AND LICENSES:

1. Bachelor's degree in human services or the rehabilitation field from an accredited college is preferred or high school diploma/GED or greater with a minimum of 3 years of related employment experience.

Valid driver's license and driving record in good standing. Must be able to use personal vehicle as necessary. Must be able to transport consumers as needed.

EXPOSURE CATEGORY:

Category 2-Some exposure to Blood Borne Pathogens likely.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

This position operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, and printers/scanners.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly required to speak and/or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; use hands to handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms. The position may require lifting and long periods of standing.

TRAVEL:

Travel to Abilities locations and within the community will be required. Travel may also be required for certain training events as mandated by the state. You may be eligible for mileage reimbursement.

DISCLAIMER:

Please note this position description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this position. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $18.00 - $18.60 per hour

Expected hours: 37.5 per week

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Preferred)

Experience:

• Working with people with disabilities: 1 year (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Required)

Work Location: In person