Community Transition Specialist - Employment & Life Skills

Turn Everyday Experiences Into Opportunities for Growth Learning a new skill, exploring a workplace, or becoming more comfortable in the community can be an important step toward greater independence. The Arc of Ocean County is hiring a Community Transition Specialist to join our Vocational Services team in Brick, New Jersey. In this full-time position, you'll help adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities strengthen practical life skills, prepare for employment, and participate in meaningful community experiences. Rather than providing instruction exclusively in a classroom, you'll help individuals learn by doing. From practicing workplace communication to participating in volunteer opportunities and developing daily living skills, you'll provide guidance that connects individual goals with real-world experiences. We're looking for someone who enjoys teaching, building relationships, and helping others discover what they're capable of accomplishing. Position Details Job Title: Community Transition SpecialistLocation: Brick, NJDepartment: Vocational ServicesEmployment Type: Full-TimeSchedule: Monday-FridayHours: 8:00 AM-4:00 PMStarting Compensation: $21.50 per hourTraining: Paid On-the-Job Training Provided What You'll Do Prepare Individuals for Employment and Everyday Independence Deliver individualized instruction in job readiness, communication, interpersonal relationships, and independent living skillsCreate engaging activities that help participants practice responsibility, decision-making, accountability, and problem-solvingAdjust teaching approaches to accommodate different learning styles, personal abilities, and individualized support needsEncourage participants to express preferences, advocate for themselves, and make informed choicesHelp individuals develop confidence as they work toward greater independence in employment and daily life Bring Learning Into the Community Coordinate and support participation in community-based learning experiences, volunteer activities, and vocational explorationProvide hands-on coaching as participants practice workplace expectations, professional behavior, and communication skillsHelp individuals apply newly developed abilities in practical community and employment settingsEstablish and maintain productive relationships with local employers, businesses, and community organizationsSafely transport participants using agency vehicles to vocational programs, community activities, and other scheduled locations Support Individualized Goals and Track Progress Reinforce objectives outlined in each participant's Individual Service Plan (ISP)Observe individual performance and provide feedback that supports continued skill developmentCollaborate with interdisciplinary team members and contribute updates during planning meetingsPrepare accurate daily service documentation, progress notes, medication administration records, incident reports, and other required recordsComplete documentation within established agency timelines and requirementsUse positive behavior support techniques and adapt assistance when individual circumstances or support needs change Promote Health, Safety, and Person-Centered Support Administer medications according to agency procedures and applicable regulatory requirementsFollow established individualized healthcare, behavioral, nutritional, and adaptive support plansAssist participants with mobility-related needs when necessaryEncourage meaningful participation while respecting each person's dignity, preferences, and right to make choicesMaintain safe and supportive learning environments in both program and community settingsFollow agency policies, established safety practices, and applicable program requirements A Career That Takes You Beyond the Office This is an active, people-centered position where your work will take place in both program environments and locations throughout the community. You may spend part of your day helping someone develop a new independent living skill and another part supporting a participant during a volunteer experience or community-based employment activity. You'll work alongside individuals, coworkers, families, employers, and community partners to create experiences that build practical abilities and support personal goals. The result is a role that combines teaching, individualized coaching, community engagement, and vocational development. Requirements Requirements Education & Experience Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Psychology, Social Work, Rehabilitation Services, Special Education, or a closely related field Professional Requirements Valid New Jersey driver's license with a satisfactory driving record (five points or fewer)Excellent communication, organizational, and relationship-building skillsAbility to work independently while collaborating effectively with coworkers, families, employers, and community partnersFlexibility to participate in community-based programming throughout Ocean County Physical Requirements Ability to lift and carry at least 25 pounds when necessaryAbility to assist individuals with mobility-related needsAbility to travel throughout the community and actively participate in off-site programming Training, Support & Career Development You'll receive support to help you become successful in the role, including: Comprehensive onboarding and paid trainingProfessional development in vocational supports, person-centered planning, and behavioral strategiesOpportunities for advancement throughout Vocational, Community, and Residential ServicesSupportive leadership and collaborative team environment Benefits Full-Time Employee Benefits The Arc of Ocean County offers benefits designed to support your health, financial security, and professional future. Healthcare and Insurance Medical, Dental, and Vision InsuranceLow Deductible Health Plans with $0 Copay OptionsFlexible Spending Account (FSA)Supplemental Benefit Options Financial Benefits and Paid Leave 401(k) Retirement Plan with Agency MatchingPaid Time Off and Holiday PayEmployee Referral Bonus Program Professional Growth Paid On-the-Job TrainingTuition Reimbursement OpportunitiesCareer Advancement Opportunities Help Individuals Prepare for What's Next Every person has different goals, strengths, and possibilities for the future. Your role is to help create learning opportunities that allow those possibilities to develop into practical skills and meaningful experiences. At The Arc of Ocean County, you'll have the opportunity to support individuals as they explore employment, strengthen their independence, and become more active participants in their communities. Apply today to become a Community Transition Specialist with our Vocational Services team in Brick, NJ, and help individuals build the skills and confidence to take their next steps forward.