Employment Specialist

About the role

The Employment Specialist is a highly engaged and mission-driven role that provides one-on-one support services to navigate employment process for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This position is ideal for someone who thrives on meaningful connection and purposeful structure—providing hands-on support and advocacy while also developing personalized, goal-driven activities that foster learning, independence, and community integration.

Responsibilities

• Maintain an active assignment list of individuals receiving services through DDA who are seeking competitive employment
• Conduct a comprehensive assessment to understand each person’s strengths, needs, preferences, support systems, and employment interests
• Complete intake assessments to determine employment readiness, barriers, and vocational goals
• Develop individualized employment plans in collaboration with each person supported
• Prepare professional vocational profiles to guide the job development process
• Visit and engage local community to identify and negotiate work experiences (informational interviews, job shadows, situational assessments, job tryouts)
• Identify job openings aligned with each client’s skills, interests, and career goals
• Build and maintain strong relationships with employers, community organizations, and workforce partners
• Attend community events, job fairs, and networking opportunities to promote the agency and expand employment opportunities
• Advocate for individuals with IDD and help negotiate job offers and accommodations when needed
• Provide support with resume writing, job application completion, and career exploration
• Conduct mock interviews, role-playing, and workplace etiquette training to build confidence and increase job readiness
• Provide travel training to help individuals gain independence in commuting to and from work
• Deliver on-site and off-site job coaching to ensure successful integration and retention
• Provide systematic instruction to teach job tasks, build workplace routines, and promote independence
• Collaborate with employers to develop support fade-out plans and ensure long-term success
• Support clients in developing positive workplace relationships with coworkers and supervisors
• Complete all required documentation including daily notes, attendance records, employment forms, and progress updates
• Track measurable outcomes such as employment placements, retention, and skill development
• Prepare and submit reports for internal teams, DDA, and other stakeholders
• Participate in internal and external meetings to support client success and program growth
• Maintain strong communication with all team members involved in a person’s support network
• Complete and pass all required training, including ACRE and/or the CESP certification, and renew training as required
• Engage in ongoing learning and professional development opportunities

Requirements

• Minimum an Associate degree with 5+ years of relevant experience in IDD services, case management, or housing support
• Experience with knowledge of workforce development, vocational rehabilitation, job placement, or career counseling
• Knowledge of local labor market trends and community employment resources
• Background in providing on-site job coaching, workplace accommodations, and employment retention support is preferred
• Valid Maryland driver’s license with a clean driving record and reliable transportation
• Must have the ACRE (Association of Community Rehabilitation Educators) or CESP (Certified Employment Support Professional)
• Work occurs in virtual and community settings, including client homes and/or work sites
• Frequent local travel required; must have reliable transportation
• Flexible daytime schedule to accommodate evening/weekend commitments
• Administrative duties include documentation, reporting, and meetings using standard computer equipment

Qualifications

• Preferred additional qualifications include bilingual capabilities, background in disability advocacy or services, experience with assistive technology and communication devices, and knowledge of evidence-based practices in skill development and community integration.

Benefits

We offer an annual salary of $60,000 – 70,000, comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, a retirement plan, paid time off and holiday pay, mileage reimbursement, and flexible scheduling to balance housing services responsibilities.