Employment Specialist($23.56-$24.97) (8971)

About the Organization: The Arc Prince George’s County serves more than 600 individuals with disabilities through a variety of programs, services and supports. Primary areas of support include community living, family and personal supports, employment services, and day programs, all emphasizing person‑centered community involvement and inclusion. Learn more at www.thearcofpgc.org.

About the role

The Employment Specialist reports to the Program Administrator of Employment Services/Individual Placement and provides support to individuals in independent, community‑based job settings. Responsibilities include job training tailored to each person’s needs, maintaining employer relationships, developing and coordinating employment opportunities across a range of industries, and ensuring compliance with regulations. The position may require evenings, weekends, and holidays based on the support needs of the individuals served. This role has no direct reports.

Responsibilities

• Teach job‑seeking, application, resume, interview, retention, communication, and workplace skills.
• Provide at least two direct support contacts monthly.
• Conduct individualized skill assessments and community‑based task trials.
• Maintain accurate employment contact records in the Electronic Health Record (EHR).
• Help individuals improve job performance and explore employment options.
• Train employers and staff to provide effective supervision and natural supports.
• Lead career planning for individuals seeking employment or advancement.
• Provide job‑search, interview, application, and follow‑up support.
• Arrange time‑limited work experiences when appropriate.
• Assist with negotiating pay, benefits, and employment terms.
• Develop employment opportunities based on individual interests, skills, and support needs.
• Participate in screening and job‑placement recommendations.
• Stay informed about tax incentives and benefits for employers hiring people with disabilities.
• Ensure employers and staff uphold the rights of individuals supported.
• Maintain positive relationships that support employment success.
• Attend required staff meetings, trainings, and Town Hall meetings.
• Cooperate with Arc of Prince George’s County, DDA, and OHCQ inspections/investigations.
• Support the agency’s mission, philosophy, and teamwork; promote collaboration, communication, and problem‑solving.
• Recognize and celebrate individual and team successes.
• Understand and implement each individual’s Person‑Centered Plan (PCP); attend all PCP meetings and complete required paperwork.
• Upload approved PCPs to the EHR promptly and ensure proper implementation.
• Maintain documentation to track PCP progress and help develop person‑centered goals and competitive, inclusive employment opportunities.
• Market and represent employment services to employers; develop new business relationships and job‑placement opportunities.
• Conduct job analyses to match individuals with suitable positions.
• Submit monthly reports on employment development, barriers, and successes.
• Network with businesses, maintain accurate employer and employment‑lead records in the EHR, and participate in job fairs and recruitment activities.
• Maintain compliance with all required training and uphold a positive, professional, and respectful attitude.
• Meet all deadlines, submit accurate mileage promptly, and drive safely while performing job duties.
• Ensure individuals receive adequate supervision during job training and coaching.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university preferred.
• Minimum two years experience in community‑based job placement in private or public agencies, supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, **or** at least three years relevant experience combined with education/training.
• Additional experience in human services, marketing, or public relations is a plus.
• Required experience in community‑based settings.
• Ability to problem‑solve and assist in decision‑making, including during emergencies.
• Current status regarding assigned core competencies and required certifications.
• Flexibility and ability to demonstrate it.
• Must drive a personal vehicle (mileage reimbursement available) and hold a valid state‑issued driver’s license with a clean record (no more than two points).
• Strong time‑management skills; ability to organize, prioritize, work independently, meet timelines, collaborate, and coordinate multiple projects.
• Strong interpersonal skills for effective cooperation with individuals, employers, families, community members, and other groups.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) or equivalent applications.
• Professional demeanor and presentation.
• Must obtain the Certified Employment Support Professional (CESP) certification within the first six months if not already certified, and maintain it.

Skills

• Job development and individual placement techniques.
• Knowledge of community resources, services, and tax incentives for hiring people with disabilities.
• Basic Internet research and standard office software applications.
• Effective training and coaching methods for employers and staff.
• Documentation and record‑keeping in electronic health systems.
• Person‑centered planning and implementation.

Benefits

• Competitive salary.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer match.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Benevolence program.
• Paid holidays and generous paid time‑off.
• Paid training.
• Company‑paid life insurance.
• Additional employee perks and programs.

Schedule

The role may require support during evenings, weekends, and holidays depending on the support needs of the individuals served.