Employment Specialist

ATS is growing and we are looking for Employment Specialists to join our team in the New Kensington, PA area. This is a part-time role with the ability to grow into full-time over time. Availability must be flexible to match client employment schedules, including a minimum of 2-3 evenings per week and flexibility on weekends.

About the role

As an Employment Specialist, you will provide job-readiness and vocational coaching services to prepare clients for sustainable career opportunities and assist them in obtaining competitive integrated employment. This includes working with adults and transition-age students with Autism, neurodivergent needs, and other disabilities in various workplace settings.

Responsibilities

• Identify individual abilities and interests, and coach on critical workplace skills.
• Model appropriate social interactions and redirect perseverative behaviors.
• Prepare clients for following written procedures, work instructions, and interpreting environmental cues.
• Identify sensory needs and discuss accommodations.
• Support the workplace by coaching coworkers, consulting with client managers, and collaborating with other paid supports.
• Build strong therapeutic rapport with clients to ensure success.
• Work directly with individuals or teams to prepare for and assist with obtaining employment aligned with their interests, skills, and abilities.
• Provide timely communication to clients and schedule services according to program timelines.
• Complete program documentation, including Supported Employment Support Plans, Community Based Work Assessments, Developmental Reports, Monthly Progress Reports, and Individual Work Plans.
• Provide direct training, support, and coaching in various settings.
• Conduct task analyses and break down tasks into manageable steps.
• Support and model effective workplace communications, task completion, and problem-solving.
• Consult with management and coworkers to adapt and support clients in the workplace.
• Lead Paid Work Experience (PWE) sessions or experiential job try-outs based on client needs.
• Facilitate and participate in job shadow opportunities.
• Manage time and appointments to ensure consistent and effective service delivery.
• Communicate with program leadership regarding employer outreach needs and opportunities.
• Explore employment opportunities for clients by communicating directly with employers.
• Complete documentation associated with hours billed, including collecting clinical data and compiling reports.
• Maintain eligibility for direct services through training and supervision.
• Transport clients to interviews, project sites, or scheduled service locations as needed.
• Uphold ATS’s mission, vision, values, and beliefs.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED required; Associate's or Bachelor's Degree in Psychology, Social Work, Occupational Therapy, Special Education, or a related field strongly preferred.
• Minimum of 2-3 years of experience working with neurodiverse individuals strongly preferred.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Valid Pennsylvania driver's license with proof of car insurance, Pennsylvania vehicle registration, and a good driving record.
• ACRE certification required within 6 months of employment.
• FBI Criminal History, PA Child Abuse History (Act 33), and PA Criminal History (Act 34) clearances required.
• Valid CPR certification upon hire; training provided if not currently certified.
• Comfort using technology, including iPads/tablets and general knowledge of Windows and Google products.

Benefits

• Competitive pay ($17-$21/hour) with bi-weekly payroll.
• Paid time off and floating holiday hours for eligible employees.
• Medical, dental, vision, and retirement options.
• Supplemental insurance and short-term disability plans for eligible employees.
• Free and confidential Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with access to mental health, financial health, legal services, and wellness benefits for you and your family.
• Discount programs, including pet insurance.
• Performance reviews to foster professional development.
• Tools and resources for long-term growth ("Hire to Retire" philosophy).
• Tuition discounts, college/university partnerships, and continued education opportunities.
• Paid ACRE training within the first 6 months of employment.
• Inclusive company culture celebrating diversity and differences.
• Technology provided (iPad or Chromebook) for data recording during sessions.
• Travel time reimbursement included in total weekly hours.
• Considerate client matching based on location and availability.
• Opportunity to make a difference in clients' lives while working with a talented and dedicated team.

About Achieving True Self

Achieving True Self is passionately cultivating and inspiring growth through evidence-based treatment to assist individuals, families, organizations, and communities in achieving self-defined goals. Our supportive organizational culture focuses on developing and retaining team members, with a mission to change the world by instilling hope and helping each person achieve their truest self.