Responsibilities:

Engages clients and establishes trusting, collaborative relationships directed toward the goal of competitive employment in community job settings with other workers who do not necessarily have disabilities.

Assists clients in obtaining information about their benefits (e.g., SSI, Medicaid, etc.) and how they will be affected by employment in order for clients to make good decisions about employment opportunities.

Refers clients to benefits counseling, as needed

Helps clients report earnings, as needed.

Assesses clients' vocational functioning on ongoing basis utilizing background information and

work experiences.

With the client's permission, provides education and support to family members.

Discusses client's preference for disclosure of psychiatric status to employers

Conducts job development and job search activities directed toward positions that are Individualized to the interests and uniqueness of the people on his/her caseload

Following the principles and procedures of IPS supported employment.

Conducts a minimum of six employer contacts per week; Employer contacts are designed to learn about the needs of the business, describe supports offered by the program and describe client strengths that a relevant to the position.

Provides individualized follow-along supports to assist clients in maintaining employment

Writes job support plans with clients and incorporating input from the developmental team.

Adjusts plan according to clients' needs and preferences.

Provides education and support to employers as agreed upon by clients, which may include Negotiating job accommodations and follow-along contact by the employment specialist with the employer

Provides outreach services as necessary to clients when they appear to disengage from the service

Uses a variety of methods to provide outreach and provides timely interventions

Returns phone calls and reacts to situations in a timely manner.

Participates in face-to-face meetings with vocational rehabilitation counselors at least once a month to coordinate services for clients

Develops an individual employment (and/or education) plan with clients

Incorporates input from the developmental team and family members, with permission.

Must have open availability to be able to accommodate to clients schedules. Spends 65% or more of scheduled work hours in the community, For example, meets clients at

community locations such as home, workplace, coffee shop, meeting with potential employers,

library, One-Stop,DVR office, family home, etc. or takes clients to apply for jobs, investigate.

local GED or colleges, etc.

Qualifications Experience in working with people with disabilities is a plus. Experience in developing employment plans. Ability to adhere to regulations and standards. Working knowledge of MS Office Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills Excellent organizational and problem-solving ability Respect to diversity. Ability to inspire and motivate. High school diploma: BSc/BA in social studies or relevant field is a plus.