Community Coach

About the Role

The primary function of the Community Coach is to help people learn, accommodate, and perform their work duties. This position may work with individuals one-on-one and/or in a small group, primarily in Summit County but may require travel to adjacent counties for service coverage. The Community Coach supports individuals in developing job-specific skills as well as interpersonal skills necessary for the workplace, facilitates volunteer experiences, and maintains positive relationships with employer partners. Transporting individuals to and from work sites may be required.

Responsibilities

• Support individuals in competitive employment settings to adapt to employer-specific needs and encourage empowerment through choice-making.
• Plan, develop, and implement strategies to build individuals' independent work skills.
• Assist, monitor, and support individuals in all areas of on-the-job support, including:
  • Developing professionalism, hygiene, and natural workplace supports.
  • Identifying community supports and fostering social integration.
  • Teaching problem-solving, job expectations, and workplace relationship management.
  • Providing skill development training aligned with workplace realities.
• Serve as a continuous positive role model for work behavior, attitude, and ethics, including appropriate work attire.
• Provide individual and/or group academic assistance to participants.
• Facilitate daily documentation, maintain attendance logs, and complete other required records.
• Monitor workplace activities to ensure safety and report critical or behavioral incidents.
• Report all Unusual and Major Unusual incidents according to agency policy.
• Participate in investigations, regulatory reviews, and compliance activities as required.
• Implement individualized employment supports to help participants attain and maintain community employment.
• Maintain positive relationships with employees to enhance program services and ensure participant census meets program needs.
• Attend required trainings (e.g., First Aid, CPR, CPI) and maintain certifications, including Medication Certification.
• Ensure driver’s license, car insurance, and vehicle availability for transporting individuals.
• Complete online trainings (e.g., College of Direct Support) and participate in professional growth programs.
• Recognize and address individual customer needs with a positive attitude and flexibility.
• Respond to changes in the work environment and collaborate with co-workers, supervisors, and management.
• Use payroll systems accurately and submit financial data, expense reports, and billing records on time.
• Ensure confidentiality, security, and integrity of data and protect against unauthorized use or loss.

Requirements

• Must be 21 years of age or older.
• High School Diploma or GED; Associate degree or higher preferred.
• One year of experience in vocational, educational, or paraprofessional settings (IDD setting preferred).
• Flexibility to work in a demanding environment.
• Demonstrated computer skills, including Microsoft Word and internet search capability.
• High energy and enthusiasm for community engagement.
• Valid Ohio Driver’s License and compliance with organizational driving requirements.
• Access to a personal vehicle for transporting individuals and proof of vehicle liability insurance.
• Certified Employment Support Professional™ (CESP™) credentials recommended but not required.

Skills

• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Accountability, problem-solving, and teamwork.
• Integrity, service excellence, and technological proficiency (including Microsoft Office).
• Creativity and commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities.
• Ability to work independently, follow instructions, and proactively solve problems.
• Strong documentation skills with attention to detail and timeliness.

Work Characteristics

• Ability to think creatively and work without direct supervision.
• Treat individuals with disabilities as equals and relate effectively to others.
• Work as a team member and follow verbal/written directions.

Unusual Working Conditions

• May be exposed to contagious diseases.
• May work with individuals exhibiting aggressive or challenging behaviors.